Hit-and-run accidents are especially common in Georgia, with the state having the fourth-highest number of fatal hit-and-run crashes in the country. A motorist leaving the scene of the crime can result in serious legal ramifications and further injury to the victim.
At Burrow & Associates our expert hit-and-run lawyers are here to help. If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, we can guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. Learn more about hit-and-run incidents and how our attorneys can help.
What Is a Hit and Run?
A hit-and-run is an accident in which one driver leaves the scene without providing information, seeking help for the victim, or receiving permission from an investigating police officer to leave. It can refer to an incident between multiple vehicles or between a vehicle and a pedestrian. Other instances that may be classified as a hit-and-run include:
- One party leaving the scene of an accident before the police arrive
- A driver refusing to provide personal information after an accident
- Someone hits a parked vehicle and leaves without providing contact information
Hit-and-run accidents are serious offenses that violate a motorist’s legal obligation to stay at the scene of an accident. Offenders can face legal ramifications, including fines, loss of license, and potential jail time if they were driving impaired. Victims of a hit-and-run face the frustrating task of tracking down the other driver to file a claim or pursue legal action. They may also face physical, mental, and financial burdens due to the accident.
Steps To Take After a Hit-and-Run Crash
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, it’s essential to take action immediately. Georgia Code § 4-60-270 requires those involved to do the following:
- Report the accident to local law enforcement
- Provide your name, address, license plate number, driver’s license number, and insurance information
- Assist injured parties and contact emergency services
- If serious injuries or fatalities occur, stay at the scene to wait for emergency services
After emergency services arrive, contact a reputable hit-and-run accident lawyer. It’s important to write down as much information about the incident as soon as possible to provide your attorney with a clear, detailed explanation of the events. They’ll work with doctors, the police, insurance companies, and investigators to guide you through the legal process. Failure to properly and timely report the accident to law enforcement and your insurance company may result in your insurer denying coverage for the claim.
Legal Consequences of a Hit and Run
In Georgia, leaving the scene of a motor vehicle incident that results in serious injury or death is a felony crime punishable by up to five years in prison. If the accident results in minor injuries, it is labeled a misdemeanor.
If you’re involved in a car crash, it’s important to stay at the scene until police and emergency services arrive. Fleeing the scene can cause additional harm to the victim and result in further legal consequences. By staying at the scene, you can call for help and potentially save the victim’s life.
Your Rights as a Victim
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible to document and treat your injuries. Common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Head and brain injuries
- Bruises
- Whiplash
- Cuts
Any injury you suffer can lead to physical pain, emotional distress, and financial burden. Seeking legal assistance after an accident will help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Your attorney can pursue action against the at-fault driver or their insurance company to hold them responsible for the damages you’ve incurred.
You may be eligible to receive hit-and-run victim compensation for the following:
- Medical bills: Expenses related to emergency medical services, hospital stays, surgery, medications, and ongoing care
- Property damage: Damage to your car or personal items due to the incident
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to medical appointments and recovery time
- Pain and suffering: Damages for physical and emotional pain caused by the accident
Your attorney may also be able to sue the driver for punitive damages for their dangerous, reckless behavior.
Why Choose Burrow & Associates?
Don’t deal with the fear and confusion of a hit-and-run accident alone. Contact Burrow & Associates to speak with one of our Georgia hit-and-run attorneys today. We’ll help you navigate the legal aftermath and protect your rights.
We offer the following:
- Expert legal guidance: With over 25 years of experience, our hit-and-runs lawyers understand these accidents’ unique complexities.
- Top-rated customer service: We want our clients to feel heard and understood. We’ll always keep you in the know and tirelessly fight for your rights.
- Medical liens: Hit-and-runs can result in costly medical expenses not covered by insurance. We have working relationships with doctors, dentists, chiropractors, and therapists who will provide treatment on a medical lien basis.
- Compassionate support: A hit-and-run can take a serious toll on your mental health. We’re here to guide you through the legal process with the support and care you deserve.
Contact Burrow & Associates for a Free Consultation
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run, time is of the essence. Contact our team today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options. We have three conveniently located offices in Athens, Duluth, and Conyers. If you’re still at home or in hospital recovering from the incident, we can come to you.
