What Are Your Rights After a Hit-and-Run Car Accident in VA?

Being the victim of a hit and run car accident in Virginia can leave you feeling frustrated, confused, and unsure of what to do next. You may face expensive medical bills, lost wages from missing work, and costly vehicle repairs through no fault. Understanding your legal rights and options for seeking compensation after a hit-and-run accident is essential. A knowledgeable Virginia car accident lawyer can guide you through the process and fight for the total and fair compensation you deserve.

Our team of personal injury attorneys is resourceful, experienced, and knowledgeable regarding your rights. To learn more about how we can help you, call Altizer Law today at 540.345.2000. 

Understanding Your Legal Rights After a Hit-and-Run in Virginia

Under Virginia law, all drivers must stop at the scene of any accident they are involved in, provide their information to the other parties, and render reasonable assistance to anyone injured. Fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime. Despite this, hit-and-run accidents still happen far too often, leaving victims to deal with the consequences. Suppose a hit-and-run driver in Virginia has injured you. In that case, you can pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses, even if the at-fault driver is never identified. A seasoned Virginia car accident attorney can explain all of your legal rights and help you explore every potential source of recovery.

Critical First Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

Your actions in the immediate aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can significantly impact your health, well-being, and legal rights. Here are some key steps to take to protect yourself:

• Call 911 and report the accident to police. Provide as much information as you can about the hit-and-run vehicle and driver.

• Seek prompt medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor. Some car accident injuries may not be immediately apparent.  

• Write down anything you can remember about the hit-and-run vehicle, such as the make, model, color, or license plate number.

• Talk to any eyewitnesses who may have seen the accident. Ask for their names and contact information.

• Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage.

• Call your own auto insurance company to report the accident.

• Contact an experienced Virginia car accident lawyer to discuss your rights and legal options.

Seeking Compensation After a Hit-and-Run Through Your Auto Insurance

If the hit-and-run driver is not identified, you may still be able to obtain compensation for your losses by filing a claim with your auto insurance company if you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage is designed to pay for your accident-related expenses when you are hit by an uninsured driver or by a hit-and-run driver. Virginia law requires auto insurers to offer UM coverage to all policyholders, although you can reject this coverage in writing. A Virginia car accident attorney can help you file a UM claim and negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.

How a Virginia Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You Pursue Justice

Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming, especially when you are coping with painful injuries and mounting expenses. You don't have to go it alone. The dedicated legal team at Altizer Law is here to handle all the details of your case, allowing you to focus on your recovery. We can investigate the accident, gather important evidence, deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, and tenaciously advocate for your interests. With a proven track record of success in car accident personal injury cases, our personal injury lawyers are well-equipped to pursue the maximum compensation possible in your case.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What if the hit-and-run driver is never found? Can I still receive compensation?

You can still seek compensation for your losses, even if the hit-and-run driver is not identified, through your auto insurance policy's uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. An experienced Virginia car accident attorney can help you file a UM claim.

2. How long must I file a hit-and-run accident claim in Virginia?

Virginia's statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a car accident is generally two years from the accident date. However, acting quickly to preserve vital evidence in a hit-and-run case is essential. Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident to protect your rights.

3. What types of compensation can I recover after a hit-and-run accident?

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you can recover compensation for your current and future medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages. A knowledgeable Virginia car accident attorney can evaluate your case and fight for full and fair compensation on your behalf.

4. How much does it cost to hire a car accident lawyer?

At Altizer Law, we handle car accident personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no upfront costs to hire us; we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. Our fee is a percentage of your settlement or verdict, so you never have to worry about affording quality legal representation.

5. I was partially at fault for the hit-and-run accident. Can I still recover compensation?

Virginia follows a pure contributory negligence rule, which bars recovery if you were even 1% at fault for the accident. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. It's important to consult with a skilled Virginia car accident lawyer who can analyze your case and advise you of your legal options.

Work with a Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

Altizer Law has navigated multiple personal injury claims throughout the years and helped our clients win their settlements.

Call our team of experienced and results-driven personal injury lawyers today at 540.345.2000 for your free consultation.