Do I Have a Hit and Run Case?
To have a hit-and-run accident case, you must be able to prove four things:
- The other driver did not uphold their duty of care on the road. All drivers have a duty to operate in a safe manner. If you’re hurt by another driver, this element of the case is usually readily apparent.
- The other party operated their vehicle in a negligent way. Negligence means not using reasonable standards of care that all people should use when they drive on the roads. Negligence can take many forms, including speeding, disobeying traffic signals, and drunk driving. Hit and run can also be a form of negligence by itself, sometimes regarding medical care.
- There is causation between the driver’s actions and the accident. The driver’s negligence must be the cause of the accident. To have a hit-and-run case, the reason the accident occurred must be traced back to the negligence of the other driver.
- You must have damages as a result of the accident. These may include physical injuries and property damage. If you have physical injuries, you can likely claim pain and suffering in addition to compensation for lost wages.
Let our experienced hit-and-run accident lawyers evaluate your claim to see what your case may be worth. Our team gives you valuable information about what’s involved with claiming financial compensation and what to expect throughout the case. The best way to know if you have a case is to consult our experienced legal team and receive an unbiased and personalized evaluation.
What can I win for my hit-and-run case?
A hit-and-run victim may qualify for any of the following:
- Emergency and long-term medical care for car accident injuries
- Lost wages for being unable to work
- Travel costs for medical treatment and physical therapy
- Mental health compensation for treatment and suffering
- Compensation for pain and emotional anguish
- Property damage reimbursement
- Help for home care and services
- A finding of legal responsibility for the other driver
If the police investigate the case, there’s a good chance that the hit-and-run offender will also face criminal charges. The criminal proceeding has a dual purpose. The primary goal is to hold the offender accountable to the public for their actions. While there might be some restitution to the victim, the criminal system doesn’t allow the same compensation that a victim can claim through a civil case.
That’s why our Tampa, Florida, hit-and-run accident lawyers work to ensure that you receive complete compensation through our representation in the civil legal system.