Des Moines Hit and Run Lawyers
Hit and Run Attorney Des Moines IA Trusts Explains What to Do If You Are a Victim of a Hit and Run
Hit and run car accidents are just that – a negligent driver “hits” someone then “runs” or flees the scene. Iowa law dictates that if you are involved in an accident – you must stop! The law applies in situations where there is only property damage as well as cases involving injury up to and including cases in which there is a fatality.
Even though that is the law of the land, unfortunately, there are times when negligent drivers choose to flee. Excuses range from, “I didn’t know I was in an accident” to “I have a warrant and didn’t want to get caught” and everything in between.
Car accidents, no matter how minor, induce annoyance and anger. That frustration climbs to a new level when the driver who hit you takes off, leaving you to pick up the pieces alone.
The team of Law Group of Iowa is here to help you stay calm and move your case forward. A Des Moines hit and run attorney understands how frustrating these cases are, and offers the following mistakes to avoid in the aftermath of your hit and run crash.
Don’t Chase the Other Driver
If your car is still drivable, it may be tempting to take off and chase the other driver. Don’t give in. Stay at the scene and document the accident. We STRONGLY suggest you DO NOT try to track down the other driver or follow him or her. The ramifications of such action could be worse than the initial crash. Let the police do the investigating.
Chasing the other driver could create a dangerous situation:
- You may drive recklessly, leading to charges against you even though the original crash was not your fault.
- It’s possible you could get into a second crash, which again could lead to charges against you even though the first crash was not your fault.
- The other driver may become angered and believe you are retaliating. This could lead to a dangerous road rage encounter.
Here’s what you should do instead:
- Stay at the scene and document the crash. Write down everything you can remember about the other vehicle and its driver. Make your best effort to get details of the offending car. License plate (even partial) is most helpful but make, model, and color of the car, number of occupants, description of occupants, and any other detail you can observe is beneficial as well. Some insurance policies may void the coverage needed to make such a claim if you fail to make a reasonable attempt at obtaining the needed information. In a situation when the other driver does stop, we recommend obtaining the above information as well as the VIN in case the offending driver provides you with false information. Remember, there is no such thing as too much information.
- Take photos of everything. If you can get to your cell phone quickly, take a picture of the other vehicle. As safely as you can, take photos of your car, the location where the crash happened, and any injuries you may have sustained.
- Make note of what is nearby. Are there witnesses to speak to? Are there security cameras that may have recorded the accident?
- Call for help. Even if you don’t believe you are hurt, it’s still important to document the crash with law enforcement. If the damage is minor police may not respond, but you can still file a police report afterward.
- Call your insurance company. Report the basic details of what happened, and explain that you are in the process of filing a police report. Insurance companies aim to spend as little as possible on a settlement, so don’t accept a monetary settlement without first consulting a trusted attorney.
Don’t Skip a Trip to the Doctor’s Office
You may be feeling fine now, but in a few hours or days, you could be feeling bruised and battered. Depending on where and how your vehicle was struck, it may take some time for injuries to become visible.
If you wait to see a doctor, you decrease your chances that the insurance company will consider your injuries to be connected to the hit and run crash. Getting an evaluation right away could not only mean your doctor spots a problem before you see it, but it also means your insurance company will be able to see you have established care immediately.
In Iowa, “uninsured motorist” insurance is optional coverage so it important to understand what you are buying in the way of insurance and it is just as important to have an experienced lawyer review your policy with you if you are involved in such a case. Our hit and run attorneys strongly recommend people purchase uninsured motorist coverage so that you can have your bills covered and be compensated fairly should you be hit by an uninsured driver.
Don’t Think You Can Do This Alone
We all know that if you’ve caused an accident, the right thing to do is to stop. That’s why it can be unfathomable when the person who hit you doesn’t stop.
Frequently Asked Questions about Hit and Runs
What can you do as a pedestrian if you were hit by a car?
The scenario starts out like any other: You left the grocery store, 4 bags in tow, and you are walking the 3 blocks back to your apartment building. As you wait to cross the last street to reach your front stoop, you press the “walk button” and wait patiently for it to light up. Once it does, you check both ways and begin crossing the Des Moines, Iowa street. Out of nowhere, a car blows through the intersection, plowing into you and sending your groceries flying throughout the street. What can you do from here? How do receive the compensation you deserve for the pain you are being put through?
Law Group of Iowa has years of experience working with car accident cases and pedestrian claims, and a hit and run accident attorney Des Moines, IA relies on will be dedicated to getting your quality of life back after a traumatic injury like this one. Below is information regarding your injuries and the first steps you can take toward healing emotionally and physically.
How to make a claim against the driver?
A Des Moines, IA hit and run accident attorney can assist you in making a claim. Typically, the driver of the car that hit the pedestrian (even if the pedestrian was not walking in a crosswalk) will be found at fault for the accident. Because drivers are legally responsible for being alert and aware of what is around them, it is usually considered their responsibility to see pedestrians. It is particularly hard for a driver to avoid liability if the pedestrian was hit in the confines of the crosswalk.
How does insurance coverage work for hit-and-run accidents?
Understanding precisely how hit-and-run accidents and the insurance process work can help you protect your finances. In most cases, hit-and-run accidents fall under the umbrella of uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage is designed to protect you when the responsible party is unknown, uninsured, or underinsured. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can file a claim with your insurance company to seek compensation for your damages.
What steps should I take when filing an insurance claim for a hit-and-run accident?
To ensure a smooth process for filing a claim for a hit-and-run accident, you should start by gathering as much information as possible, including the details of the incident, such as the date, time, and location of the accident. Additionally, provide a detailed description of the other vehicle involved, including any identifying information you were able to gather. Submit any supporting evidence, such as photographs, witness statements, or police reports. Promptly report the incident to the police and cooperate with your insurance company throughout the claims process.
What is a hit-and-run accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without stopping to identify themselves or provide assistance to those affected. This situation can involve hitting another driver, a pedestrian, or private property. Hit-and-run accidents are illegal in most jurisdictions and can result in serious consequences for the fleeing driver, which a Des Moines hit-and-run accident attorney can help guide you more.
How does uninsured motorist coverage protect me in a hit-and-run accident?
Uninsured motorist coverage provides protection in hit-and-run accidents by compensating you for damages when the responsible party is unknown or uninsured. This coverage can help cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other losses resulting from the accident. You should always review your exact insurance policy to know the type of coverage you can obtain.
What if the hit-and-run driver is found?
Should a hit-and-run driver be found, this fact can dramatically change your insurance claim. Once the responsible party is identified, you may be able to pursue a claim against their insurance policy. If they are found to be at fault for the accident, their insurance company may be responsible for compensating you for your damages. However, it’s important to note that the process can still be complex, and it’s advisable to seek legal guidance to ensure your rights are protected.
Hit-and-run accidents can be challenging to navigate, but understanding the insurance claim process can help you recover from the incident more smoothly. Familiarize yourself with your insurance coverage, especially uninsured motorist coverage, and be prepared to provide detailed information when filing a claim. Remember to gather evidence and promptly report the incident to the police. Lastly, seek legal advice if the hit-and-run driver is identified to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Our Law Group of Iowa group can help by pairing you with a Des Moines hit-and-run accident attorney!
How can Law Group of Iowa Attorneys at Law help you recover from a car accident injury?
Our attorneys are empathetic to the injuries you have sustained and the significant way they have reduced your quality of living. With over years of fighting for the rights of pedestrians injured in car accidents, we will go over every detail of your case to give you the help and peace of mind you deserve. To discuss your case with a hit-and-run accident attorney Des Moines, IA trusts, call our office today
There are thousands of drivers on the roads each day in Iowa. And it’s possible the person who hit you may never be found. Don’t take your chances. Contact Law Group of Iowa to set up a free consultation with a hit and run attorney Des Moines IA clients recommend to find out how we can help.
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