Obtaining Compensation after a Hit-and-Run Accident in Illinois

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Hit-and-Run Accidents

Typically, if you are injured in an accident, you file a claim with the driver that hit you. Unfortunately, this is not always an option in a hit-and run accident. Even if the other driver is eventually tracked down, they may not have had insurance (which is fairly common in hit-and-run accidents). You can still receive compensation, however. The following information explains how.

Hit-and-Run Accidents often Caused by Intoxicated Drivers

Lack of insurance is just one major issue with hit-and-run accidents. Many have been linked to intoxicated drivers. Others have also been linked to individuals who are driving without a license (potentially due to suspension from a previous DUI conviction). What is worse is that, collectively, hit-and-run accidents are on the rise, increasing by a concerning 13.7 percent over a three-year period.

Injuries Sustained in Hit-and-Run Accidents

For many victims of hit-and-run accidents, the injuries experienced lead to death. This is most common in hit-and-run accidents in which the victim was a pedestrian. However, even automobile drivers may suffer death in a hit-and-run accident. Other potential injuries may include:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI),
• Broken bones,
• Facial fractures,
• Loss of limb or other body part,
• Spinal injuries,
• Bruises and contusions,
• Hearing loss,
• Blindness,
• Whiplash, and
• Sprains or strains.

Because the possibility of injury is high, and since it is fairly common not to immediately notice symptoms of an injury after an accident, it is critical that you seek medical treatment as soon as possible. You should also contact the police to file a report. This will serve as documentation in your accident.

Obtaining Compensation for Your Accident

Generally, as long as you have insurance coverage beyond limited liability, you can pursue a compensation claim through your own insurance company. In many ways, you will treat this just like any other claim (obtain copies of medical records, retain receipts for medication and other expenses, etc.). However, you should let your insurance company know that you were a victim of a hit-and-run. They will begin an investigation and, depending on their findings, will determine if compensation is owed to you.

Unfortunately, insurance companies are rather infamous for denying claims and reducing the amount that is owed to their clients. Our skilled Lake County personal injury attorneys can protect your rights, every step of the way. We will fight for the most compensation possible for your situation. Schedule your consultation and ask how we can help with your case today.

Sources:

http://kwqc.com/2016/09/29/deadly-hit-and-run-accident-in-jo-daviess-county/

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2013/11/10/hit-and-run-crashes-los-angeles/3452699/