Here’s some shocking news: more than 700,000 hit-and-run accidents happen yearly. A majority of the victims in these accidents are bicyclists and pedestrians. And only 10 percent of hit-and-run accidents are solved. These findings from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety illustrate how widespread a problem hit-and-run accidents have become and how challenging it can be to seek fair compensation following an injury.
When the person who caused a hit-and-run is caught, they can be held liable for any damages. However, they are seldom caught. So what are the options for people who suffer serious or debilitating injuries in a hit-and-run accident?
No-Fault States
Florida is a no-fault insurance state. This means that victims of injury in a car accident must turn to their own insurance before seeking compensation through other means. This can be beneficial in a hit-and-run accident where the other party’s name, let alone insurance information, is not often known. However, this law relies on victims of hit-and-run accidents having a car insurance policy. Not everyone drives or carries insurance, so this is not always an option.
With no auto insurance plan, your healthcare insurance can be used to pay for medical expenses. After, of course, you have reached your deductible. In these cases, as with auto insurance cases, it is doubtful that you will be compensated for anything beyond actual expenses.
Do You Need Help?
Dealing with insurance companies, even your own, can be incredibly complicated and frustrating. Moreover, once you have accepted a settlement offer, you will be barred from taking additional action to seek more compensation. Talking to an attorney before you deal with insurance can help ease the process and work towards a more substantial settlement.
The attorneys at Kelleher Law have decades of experience helping victims of serious injury get fair compensation following hit-and-run accidents. We can help you work with your insurer to seek the best possible outcomes and even take your case to trial when no agreement can be reached.
If you have been injured or a loved one has died in a hit-and-run accident, we are here to listen to your story and help you determine the best course forward. Call us at 833-546-3675 to schedule a free case review and learn more. Kelleher Law has offices in Naples, Fort Myers, Florida, and Roswell, Georgia. We welcome clients from all surrounding areas.
