One of the most irresponsible things that a driver can do is hit and injure another driver, and then flee the scene of the car accident. Unfortunately, this happens on a regular basis in Arizona.
At first, a victim of a hit and run may think that there is nothing they can do to get their expenses from the car accident paid, because “it was a hit and run, and there is no insurance.”
However, sometimes there are things that you can do to cover expenses from a hit and run car accident.
Report the Accident to the Police so they can try to find the Hit and Run Driver
First, of course, report the car accident to the police. You should do this immediately from the scene of the accident by calling 911 A detective may be able to investigate and find out who caused the car accident and then fled the scene. Also, sometimes hit and run drivers will realize that they have put themselves at risk for criminal prosecution for fleeing the scene, and, in order to receive more lenient treatment, will turn themselves in to the police.
Also, another driver may have seen the crash, called 911, and given the license plate number of the hit and run driver to the 911 operator.
Look for Surveillance Films
Many business and homes now have surveillance recordings. If you see a home or
business near the accident scene that may have taken a recording, go and ask for a copy
right away. Often the recordings are automatically erased within a short time.
Check Your Policy for Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If you have Uninsured Motorist Coverage on your auto insurance policy, in many cases it
will cover your medical bills and other expenses if the at-fault driver is never found. This
requires making a claim within time limits set by Arizona law and the insurance policy.
Consider Other Parties that May Be Liable
In some cases another party in addition to the hit and run driver may have contributed to
the car accident. For example, if someone swerved in front of the hit and run driver,
causing the hit and run driver to hit you, there may be partial liability on the swerving
driver. Witnesses or the police report may identify the swerving driver.
Apply to the Arizona Crime Victim Compensation Program
In Arizona, victims of crimes can be eligible for compensation for medical expenses and
other losses through the Arizona Crime Victim Compensation Program. In some cases, a
hit and run, which is a crime, may qualify.
Although a hit and run accident creates a difficult and challenging situation, in many
cases there can be sources of recovery for your medical bills and damages, even when
you re not able to find the hit and run driver.
If you have been injured by a hit and run driver, reach out to attorney John Evans for
help. He has 35 years of experience helping injured people. You can reach John at 480-
573-0600.
John Evans Injury Law
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