If you have suffered injuries in a hit-and-run accident in Brazos County, you may have many questions. “Why did the other driver flee?” “What happens if the police don’t locate them?” “How will I pay the medical bills?” This is the time to contact The Payne Law Group.
As a leading personal injury law firm serving clients in Bryan, College Station, and the surrounding area, we have a proven track record of success in handling hit-and-run accident claims. Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in the laws and procedures involved, and we are committed to fighting for your rights and getting you the compensation you deserve.
When you contact us, we will listen to your account, explain your rights, and explore all possible avenues for compensation. It’s crucial to act swiftly so we can identify the hit-and-run driver, hold them accountable, and secure the just compensation you deserve. Don’t delay; contact us today for a free consultation.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a motorist collides with another vehicle or hits a pedestrian and flees the scene. In Texas, it is illegal to leave the scene of a car accident involving personal injuries. All drivers must stop, remain at the scene, exchange identification and insurance information with the other driver(s), attempt to render assistance, and call law enforcement.
Although fleeing a car accident scene is illegal and unjustifiable, drivers may flee accidents because they are:
- Under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
- Driving with a suspended license
- Don’t have automobile insurance
Since surveillance cameras are common at traffic lights, intersections, commercial buildings, and private homes in Bryan, law enforcement can apprehend hit-and-run drivers. At the same time, you can take the following steps to protect your rights:
- Get the vehicle’s license plate number or a partial number that hit you.
- Contact the police immediately so they can apprehend the hit-and-run driver. Even if the police don’t find the suspect, the police report will help support your injury claim.
The best way to protect your rights and well-being is to have an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney by your side.
Obtaining Compensation After A Hit-and-Run Accident
If the hit-and-run driver is identified and apprehended, you have the option to file a civil lawsuit against them to recover damages. The value of your claim will depend on various factors, including the driver’s insurance status, the extent of your injuries, and the degree of your liability.
At The Payne Law Group, we will guide you through this process and fight to secure the maximum compensation you are entitled to. Our hit-and-run accident attorneys will sort through all the details and fight to obtain the maximum compensation you deserve, including:
- Lost wages (past and future)
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
You may also be awarded punitive damages designed to punish the person who fled the accident scene and discourage others from engaging in similar misconduct.
What If the Hit-and-Run Driver Cannot Be Found?
If the driver involved in a hit-and-run has not been located, you may have the option to claim compensation through your insurer if you hold Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. Texas law mandates that all insurance companies offer this coverage to their policyholders. Essentially, UM coverage permits you to submit a claim with your insurance provider for injuries to drivers and passengers in accidents involving uninsured or hit-and-run drivers.
If you have chosen UM coverage, the minimum required coverage must match the state-mandated minimums:
- $30,000 per injured person
- $60,000 total for injuries per incident
- $25,000 for property damage
Be aware of the stringent deadlines for filing UM claims and act promptly. Failure to submit a UM claim within the set timeframe will likely result in your insurer denying the claim. Although insurance companies have an unfair advantage over injury victims, we will leverage our skills and experience to get you just compensation.
Contact An Experienced Bryan Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, contact The Payne Law Group. We have an impressive track record of success in hit-and-run claims and will do what it takes to protect your rights and well-being. Contact us today so we can start working on your claim. The initial consultation is free, and there is never a fee until we recover it for you.