When you get into a car accident, you expect that everyone knows the routine. You have to get out, exchange insurance information, and stand around awkwardly while you wait for the police to show up and document everything. However, some people did not get this memo, and sometimes there is a driver who flees the scene of the accident. If they can be found, they should be held accountable for the damage they caused. A San Antonio, Texas car accident lawyer from our firm will do their best to help you pursue them for damages.
What Should I Do After a Driver Flees the Scene?
When you notice that a driver is fleeing the scene instead of pulling over somewhere safe, you should get all of the information that you can about the vehicle and its driver before it leaves the area. You want to be able to list:
- Some physical characteristics of the driver
- The color of the car
- The make and/or model of the car
- Where the vehicle is damaged
- Any other identifying information, like bumper stickers, decals, or old damage
Write down as much as you can and pass this information to the police. You should also talk to eyewitnesses to see if anyone saw more than you did and contact nearby businesses that could have camera footage of the accident.
How Long Do I Have to Sue For Compensation?
You have two years to begin pursuing a personal injury case. In most situations, this time limit also applies when you are dealing with a driver who flees an accident scene. So if the driver who caused your injuries in a hit-and-run accident is found, it is in your best interest to act quickly.
What Kind of Damages Can I Win From a Driver Who Flees the Scene of an Accident?
If you were injured and the driver who flees the scene is at fault, you can be compensated for all sorts of expenses stemming from your accident. Your compensation should help you cover:
- Medical costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning potential
- Loss of enjoyment
- Mental anguish
- Pain from disfigurement or disability
- Property damages, like the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle
Keep in mind one thing though. When you are suing a driver who flees the scene, it is very possible that they do not have adequate insurance coverage. This is a common reason for running from an accident scene. So it may be more difficult to pursue a large settlement because you are suing an individual instead of their insurance company. An attorney from our firm can advise you on the best path forward.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers
If you are ready to learn more about your legal options, contact Sahadi Legal Group. We are ready to tell you more about how our attorneys can be of assistance, so schedule your free consultation today.