When someone hits and runs after causing an accident, they put victims at risk of death and serious injury. Car accident victims may require immediate medical care, which they don’t receive when the responsible person leaves the scene without notifying authorities or requesting medical assistance. Additionally, these victims may be left in a vulnerable position where subsequent accidents may further injure them.
At Feagans Law Group P.C., we work closely with accident victims who’ve suffered injuries through no fault of their own. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you. Call us at (630) 940-2093 or contact us online to get started.Â
What Is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit and run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision flees the scene of an accident. Hit and run accidents may occur for some of the same reasons as other accidents, such as:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Reckless driving
- Fatigued driving
- Running red lights or stop signs
The key distinction in a hit and run accident is that one of the drivers fails to stop at the accident scene in violation of the law. Drivers in Illinois involved in an accident involving injuries are required to remain at the scene of the accident and provide specific information to law enforcement and others involved in the accident before they leave the scene. If they fail to follow this law, they can be charged with a felony and face incarceration, fines, and driver’s license revocation.Â
Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene of an Accident?
Drivers may flee the accident scene because they fear being arrested for a crime or facing monetary penalties. They know they’ve done something wrong and are afraid of being caught. Common reasons drivers flee the scene include the following:
- They were drinking and driving or driving under the influence of drugs and want to avoid criminal penalties.
- They were driving without insurance and don’t have the money to pay for the damages they caused.
- They were driving while on a suspended or revoked license and don’t want to be thrown in jail.
- They are afraid of being charged with a crime for causing someone’s injury or death.
- They are driving a stolen vehicle or joyriding.
- They have a warrant out for their arrest and don’t want to go to jail.
Regardless of why a driver flees, doing so puts others in danger, and such drivers should be held accountable. Our car accident attorney in Geneva is prepared to help you after a hit and run collision.
Legal Options Following a Hit and Run Crash
If you were injured in a hit-and-run crash, you may have various legal options. By cooperating with police and providing a description of the other driver and vehicle, the responsible driver may be identified, and you may be able to file an accident claim with their liability insurance provider.
If the at-fault driver cannot be located, you could pursue an uninsured motorist claim with your own auto insurance provider. Uninsured motorist coverage is standard on auto insurance policies in Illinois. By making a claim with your own insurer, you can pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Contact Us Today for Your Free Case Review
Feagans Law Group P.C. handles hit and run and uninsured motorist claims in Geneva. Contact us at (630) 940-2093 to speak to an experienced Geneva hit and run accident attorney.