While any vehicle accident can be a traumatic experience, a collision with a driver that leaves the scene brings unique challenges. Although it is illegal to flee the scene after a car wreck, the police cannot always determine the identity of the other driver. This makes it difficult to pursue a civil claim after a hit and run.
However, a knowledgeable attorney could help an injured victim seek the compensation they need to recover through other means. At Tittle & Perlmuter, our lawyers are experienced in handling hit and run car accidents in Sandusky and can walk you through your legal options.
Reasons for Drivers Fleeing after a Car Wreck
Hit and run accidents happen for many different reasons. Some drivers leave the scene of a crash intentionally, while others may not realize they were in a collision at all. The experienced attorneys at our firm have handled many hit and run cases involving the following common scenarios in Sandusky.
Intoxicated Driver
Some drivers leave the scene of an accident because they are under the influence of alcohol or other substances. These drivers leave the crash site in hopes of avoiding a breathalyzer test and potential criminal penalties.
Fear of Arrest
Drivers that are not intoxicated may still leave the scene of an accident out of fear of criminal charges. For example, a motorist with a warrant for his arrest may leave the scene to avoid being caught. The same is true for those concerned about how their arrest might impact their immigration status. Another prime example would be if the driver caused the accident as a result of his violating a traffic ordinance.
Lack of Insurance
Other motorists may leave the scene of a collision because they do not have insurance. A vehicle collision can be costly, and drivers without coverage often leave the scene of the crash to avoid liability.
Panic
It is possible for a driver to simply panic after an accident and leave the scene. This is common with young drivers, especially those operating vehicles owned by an adult in their life.
Regardless of the circumstances of a particular case, a skilled attorney can provide useful guidance throughout an ongoing police investigation and any potential legal actions for a hit and run car accident in Sandusky.
Who Can be Held Liable for a Hit and Run?
In some cases, the police will identify the driver that fled the scene of the crash through their investigation. This may be possible based on eyewitness accounts of the accident or video footage that captured the driver’s license plate. Even if the police do not find the motorist, a thorough investigation by a skilled legal team could identify the driver, making it possible to pursue a civil claim against them.
However, there are still ways to recover compensation for hit and run accidents where the at-fault driver is never identified. An injured victim’s legal options will depend on his or her own insurance policy and whether the victim has uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. If the victim has UM coverage, he could file a claim under his own insurance policy for damages associated with the collision. Our knowledgeable attorneys can further advise an injured victim on filing insurance claims after a hit and run accident in Sandusky.
Work with an Attorney for Hit and Run Car Accidents in Sandusky
Dealing with the pain and emotional trauma of any auto collision can be difficult. If you were hit by a driver who fled the scene, you may be unsure of how to pursue the compensation you need to recover from your injuries.
The legal team at Tittle & Perlmuter knows how to approach hit and run car accidents in Sandusky to increase the chances of a successful case outcome. Call us today to learn how we can protect your legal rights and advocate on your behalf.