If an individual is in an accident, by law, they must stop their vehicle and remain at the scene until both parties or the police clear the situation. Unfortunately, however, this sometimes does not occur, and an injured victim may be left to face the aftermath of an accident on their own. A hit and run accident occurs when somebody causes a car wreck and flees the scene, potentially leaving someone seriously injured without any assistance. If you have been injured in a car wreck and the responsible driver fled the scene, you should speak with a Manchester hit and run accident lawyer. A knowledgeable car wreck attorney could review your case and help you fight for fair compensation.
Common Factors in Hit and Run Accidents
Many hit and run accidents involve a driver striking a pedestrian, another vehicle, or a cyclist and then driving away after the incident. Frequently in these cases, the driver who left the scene may be intoxicated or may wish to avoid responsibility.
The most common areas for hit and run accidents in Manchester are commercial districts outside the mall and by Main Street. These areas have many stores, restaurants, and pedestrians, which can be a dangerous mix when negligent drivers are around.
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Determining Liability in Hit and Run Car Wreck Cases
When law enforcement catches a driver after a hit and run accident, they are charged with a crime of causing an accident and fleeing the scene. The courts use a legal concept called the consciousness of guilt to determine liability in these cases. This concept explains that fleeing the scene of an accident could imply an admission of guilt and could be used as evidence to support liability.
If the person flees the scene and the authorities are unable to identify them, the injured party must make an underinsured motorist claim. An experienced Manchester hit and run attorney understands these complexities and nuances that come with this type of case, and they can use this knowledge to work toward a more desirable outcome for an injured party.
Recoverable Car Crash Damages
In a hit and run accident case, the injured person may be able to recover for any harm they suffered, including damages for:
- Medical bills
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Lost present and future wages
- Property damages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In a hit and run accident caused by an intoxicated driver, the injured party also could receive reckless damages that are double or triple those of a similar case without a drunk driver.
Punitive Damages
The courts may award punitive damages when the conduct of fleeing the scene was so reckless that the injured person died or the delay in getting medical attention caused the victim even greater injury. A hit and run attorney in Manchester could look at an injured victim’s case to determine if they may be eligible to demand punitive damages for their injuries.
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Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident
One of the actions an individual should take after being injured in a hit and run car crash is visiting a doctor and receiving treatment immediately. The individual should ensure that there are no internal injuries, tears, or other wounds that may get worse if left untreated. If their pain changes in any way after getting checked by a physician, they should return to their doctor’s office for another visit.
The injured party also should not give statements to insurance companies. If the other person’s insurance company asks for a statement, they should refuse. The rules may become more complex when their own insurance company requests a statement as well. Instead, the individual should contact an attorney to help them negotiate with both insurance companies.
A Manchester attorney also could help someone with a hit and run accident claim by being able to work with the police to understand the circumstances of the accident and to investigate who caused the accident. The lawyer also may put potentially liable parties on notice, including notice for an underinsured motorist claim.
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Contact a Manchester Hit and Run Accident Attorney
Being involved in a hit and run case can be extremely overwhelming, especially if the driver who caused it is unidentifiable. A knowledgeable Manchester hit and run lawyer could help an injured party work on their claim and combat all the challenges that arise when the negligent driver flees the scene. If you were struck by a reckless driver and they fled the scene, an attorney could guide you through this complex legal process. Contact our office today for a free consultation on your claims.
