Tracking Down Responsible Parties and Getting Recovery in Hit-and-Run Accident
A hit-and-run accident can leave victims feeling helpless and vulnerable, especially when the responsible party chooses to flee the scene. In these situations, the victim is left grappling with not only physical injuries but also the emotional distress of not knowing who caused the harm.
The driver involved may leave behind little to no trace, disappearing without offering any form of assistance or responsibility.
This can create a sense of uncertainty and frustration, as victims struggle to work through the challenges of recovering damages and identifying the person responsible. The fear of never finding the culprit, combined with the financial and emotional toll of the accident, can make the process even more overwhelming.
Our firm serves clients throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Washtenaw County. Contact Schefman & Associates, PC, today to discuss your case and learn how our firm can help you pursue the justice and compensation you’re entitled to.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver causes an accident and leaves the scene without stopping to provide identification, insurance information, or assistance to the injured parties. In Michigan, a hit-and-run accident is taken seriously and is classified as a criminal offense.
However, the physical and emotional toll on victims is substantial, and it’s essential to take steps to recover damages. We understand how frustrating it can be to deal with such an incident, and we’re committed to helping you get the justice you deserve.
The Importance of Reporting the Accident Immediately
One of the first steps in pursuing recovery after a hit-and-run accident is to report it to the police immediately. Delays in reporting can hinder the investigation and may reduce the chances of finding the responsible party.
Reporting the incident promptly allows law enforcement to start looking for the driver and gather valuable evidence, such as witness statements and surveillance footage. The sooner we start the process, the better chance we have of locating the individual responsible for the hit-and-run accident.
File a police report: Provide as much information as possible, including the location, time, and any details of the vehicle involved.
Gather witness statements: Eyewitnesses can provide crucial information to help identify the driver and vehicle.
Provide any available evidence: Dashcam footage, surveillance footage, and photos of the scene can be helpful in the investigation.
After reporting the accident, the police will begin their investigation. However, it’s also essential to work with a lawyer, like us at Schefman & Associates, to assure that all avenues of recovery are explored.
How We Can Help You in a Hit-and-Run Accident Case
Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be incredibly stressful. Aside from the physical injuries you may have sustained, there's the added challenge of identifying the responsible party and seeking compensation for your damages. That’s where we come in.
We've helped many victims of hit-and-run accidents track down the responsible parties and secure the compensation they’re entitled to. In some cases, the perpetrator is quickly identified, but in others, it may take time. No matter the situation, we’ll guide you through every step of the process, assuring that your rights are protected.
Investigation of the accident: We'll work with investigators to gather all available evidence, such as surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, and police reports.
Insurance claims: If the responsible party isn’t identified, we’ll explore the possibility of securing compensation through your own insurance policy, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
Pursuit of damages: Our goal is to help you get recovery for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident.
We understand how overwhelming it can be to deal with the fallout of a hit-and-run accident, but we’re here to help guide you through the process and fight for your recovery.
What to Do If the Driver Can’t Be Found
In some hit-and-run cases, the driver may not be located. This doesn’t mean that you’re left without options. Michigan law provides a way for victims of hit-and-run accidents to pursue compensation even if the responsible party remains unidentified. We’ll work with you to explore all possible avenues for recovery.
Uninsured motorist coverage: Many car insurance policies offer uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage allows you to recover compensation from your own insurance company if the at-fault driver can’t be found.
Filing a claim with your insurance: If the hit-and-run driver isn't located, we’ll help you file a claim with your insurance company to recover compensation for your injuries and damages.
State fund programs: Michigan has a fund for uninsured motorists, which may provide assistance if the responsible driver can’t be identified or is uninsured.
While it may be frustrating to think that the responsible party may never be held accountable, there are still options available to recover damages. We’ll explore every opportunity to secure the compensation you need and are entitled to.
Recovering Compensation for Your Injuries and Damages
Hit-and-run accidents can result in both physical and emotional distress. From medical expenses to lost wages and pain and suffering, the financial burden can be overwhelming. Fortunately, Michigan law provides options for recovering compensation, whether the responsible driver is identified or not.
If the responsible party is found, we’ll work to hold them accountable and pursue the maximum compensation available. If the driver isn't located, we’ll focus on securing compensation from your insurance policy or the state fund.
Medical expenses: This includes the cost of hospital bills, doctor visits, rehabilitation, and other medical treatments related to the accident.
Lost wages: If the accident causes you to miss work, we’ll help you recover the income you’ve lost during your recovery.
Pain and suffering: We understand that the emotional toll of a hit-and-run accident can be significant, and we’ll fight for your rights.
Property damage: If your vehicle was damaged in the accident, we’ll work to recover the costs of repairs or replacement.
The Basics of Insurance in Hit-and-Run Accident Recovery
While it’s always important to have adequate insurance coverage, the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be particularly challenging if the responsible party isn't found. Fortunately, Michigan law requires drivers to carry no-fault insurance, which can help cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault.
No-fault insurance: In Michigan, your own insurance policy will typically cover medical expenses and lost wages through your no-fault insurance coverage, regardless of who caused the accident.
Uninsured motorist coverage: If the responsible driver isn't located, we can help you recover compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage.
Personal injury protection (PIP): Michigan’s no-fault insurance also includes personal injury protection, which helps cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs associated with the accident.
It’s crucial to have the right coverage in place to protect yourself in the event of a hit-and-run accident. We can help you understand your policy and guide you through the claims process.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In Michigan, there are strict time limits for filing claims related to hit-and-run accidents. If you wait too long to take action, you may forfeit your right to recover damages. We strongly advise that you contact us as soon as possible after a hit-and-run accident to assure that your claim is filed within the required time frame.
Statute of limitations: In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim related to a hit-and-run accident is three years. However, it’s important to take action as soon as possible to assure that evidence is preserved and deadlines are met.
Insurance claims deadlines: Be mindful of your insurance policy’s deadlines for reporting and filing claims. We’ll help assure that all deadlines are met to avoid any complications.
Reaching out to an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney early in the process can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. We’ll assure that all necessary steps are taken to protect your rights and recover the compensation you’re entitled to.
Contact Our Firm Today
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Michigan, don’t face the aftermath alone. At Schefman & Associates, PC, located in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, we’re dedicated to helping victims of hit-and-run accidents seek justice and recover damages. We serve clients throughout Oakland County, Wayne County, Macomb County, and Washtenaw County. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you.
