If you were in a hit-and-run accident in Sarasota or surrounding areas, a lawyer could help protect your rights and handle your insurance claim or lawsuit. This can help you get the compensation you need to cover the cost of your collision-related expenses. Even if the other driver could not be found by local law enforcement, you still have legal ways to get compensation for the damages.
Hit and Run Accidents May Be Complicated
If an accident happens and all the parties stay at the scene, it’s easier to determine fault, liability, and negligence. If the accident caused injuries, deaths, or significant property damage, you’re obligated by Florida Statute §316.061 to stay at the collision location.
If a driver who caused the accident leaves the scene, it can be difficult to get compensation for your losses. If you have questions about a hit-and-run in Florida, hiring a lawyer can help provide answers.
Your Insurance May Cover Your Out-of-Pocket Expenses
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) has provided information on the minimum insurance requirements for drivers in Florida. You need to have insurance that covers property damage and injury costs if you are involved in a collision. But if you have suffered severe injuries, the required minimum insurance coverage may not be sufficient to cover all of your expenses.
Your policy may provide coverage if you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, such as:
- Damage to your vehicle and other personal property
- The cost of your medical expenses
- Wages you lost because of your injuries
If you choose to hire a lawyer specializing in motor vehicle accidents involving personal injury, they can examine your insurance policy to determine if any options are available to you.
The Benefits of Working with a Lawyer for a Hit and Run Accident
Your lawyer can help you resolve any issues you may encounter while trying to recover compensation from your insurance provider.
Your lawyer can take care of your entire auto insurance claim, including:
- Filing your claim
- Handling communications with the involved insurance agents
- Gathering evidence relevant to your claim
- Defending your rights
- Protecting you against any bad faith insurance practices
- Negotiating a settlement
If the person who caused the accident and fled the scene is caught, their insurance may cover your losses. However, they may not have enough insurance, and even if they do, you may be able to seek compensation by filing a lawsuit instead of an insurance claim.
You May Have Grounds for a Personal Injury Lawsuit
There are several reasons why a motorist may flee an accident scene. While each situation is unique, the other driver may have been driving with a suspended license or under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If the driver who caused the accident is caught and your insurance policies do not cover all of your expenses, you might consider suing them. When you hire a lawyer for a hit-and-run case in Florida, they will help prove that your financial losses happened due to the other driver’s negligence.
According to Florida Statute §95.11, you usually have four years to sue in a car accident case. However, if the at-fault driver intentionally ran away from the accident scene, and you could not identify them, then you may be given more time to take legal action under Florida Statute §95.051. Your attorney will handle all the necessary tasks required to construct a strong lawsuit on your behalf.
Call Christine Law Today
At Christine Law, we believe in offering personalized and truthful legal representation. We understand the impact these types of accidents can have on your life and are dedicated to ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve. Hire an experienced attorney and have peace of mind that all legal aspects are under control. Maximize your claim today by calling Christine Lawat (941) 548-9555 or completing our online consultation form, we’re ready to help you each and every step of the way.
