You’re waiting at a traffic light when suddenly another vehicle slams into you. Your fright turns to shock as you see the driver speed off, leaving you with severe injuries and a totaled automobile. Hit and runs are crimes, and the Illinois civil court system also allows victims to seek compensation in court. But what legal recourse do you have against someone who drives off and is difficult to even locate?
The automobile accident attorneys of Hale & Monico understand the fear and frustration that hit and run victims face. We’ll fight for the justice you deserve.
Hit and Run Accidents Are Serious Offenses
Illinois law requires that a driver involved in an accident – even if it was not his or her fault – must stay at the accident scene until law enforcement arrives. Certain information also has to be provided to the police and the other driver. Failure to do this is a serious offense.
Yet despite the criminal penalties, countless drivers leave the scenes of accidents every year. Accident victims may be severely injured or even die in some cases. If you’ve been hurt by a driver who fled the scene, what can you do?
First, see your doctor or an emergency room, even for seemingly minor injuries. Not only is this necessary for your health and recovery, but if the driver is ultimately located, you need a record of the medical attention you received. Failure to seek immediate attention could jeopardize your injury claim later.
Next, call 911 and report the incident to the police right away. The police may be able to help locate the driver but should be notified regardless so a police report can be created. That report may prove vital when it comes to seeking damages for your injuries, so be sure to obtain a copy of it too.
Then, make a note of all relevant information you can remember about the accident. Do this step as soon as possible so you won’t forget critical details that could be used to locate the driver and establish his or her liability. That would include things like:
- The make, model, color, and approximate year of the vehicle
- Any identifying information you remember about the driver
- Where exactly the accident occurred
- The date and time of the accident
- The weather conditions or other relevant information about the scene
- Any relevant details leading up to and right after the collision
If there were any witnesses to the accident, talk to them right away and find out what details they may be able to provide. Get their names and contact information for later. Finally, you may be able to obtain any surveillance footage in the area that might have recorded the accident. Your uninsured motorist insurance coverage can help you with medical bills and other losses.
Contact Our Chicago Hit and Run Accident Attorney
Whether you are able to locate the hit and run driver or not, it is essential to ask an experienced Chicago accident attorney for help with this process. Your lawyer can assist you in finding the driver and holding that person liable. An attorney can also work to make sure your insurance company fairly compensates you, regardless of whether the driver can be found.
Trust the dedicated accident attorneys of Hale & Monico. Reach out to us today to schedule your consultation.