Katy Hit & Run Attorney
Fleeing the scene of a crash is not only immoral, it is illegal. Yet, it is so common that roughly one out of 10 fatal traffic collisions is caused by a hit and run driver. In fact, pedestrians and cyclists make up 65 percent of all fatal hit and run collisions because it is so easy for the driver to get away—their vehicle likely has minimal damage, allowing them to drive off without being held responsible. As despicable as a hit and run driver is, they are everyday Americans. Given the chance, many drivers choose to flee the scene rather than give aid to those they hit and wait for the authorities to arrive. Our Katy hit & run attorneys at The West Law Office do everything in our power to hold these drivers fully accountable if and when they are caught. Furthermore, we help our clients seek compensation in other forms when the driver does successfully evade law enforcement, which happens more often than not.
Using Your Own Uninsured / Underinsured Motorist Policy
Tragically, most hit and run drivers get away with their crime. Tracking down hit and run drivers is simply a low priority for law enforcement, particularly when there are no fatalities. Even when a victim is killed, our society has not made enough of an effort to create a system and technology that enables us to track down these criminals. However, when it comes to financial protection, if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, you can use that in the event that the hit and run driver is never found. UM coverage works as such—you file a claim with your own insurance company for the damages that were caused to you. Your insurance company is likely to fight back against these damages, which is why you need to work with an attorney despite this insurance company supposedly “being on your side.” In this type of personal injury lawsuit, you seek all of the damages that you would otherwise seek if the at-fault driver had been identified. These damages include:
- Medical expenses;
- Lost wages and earning capacity;
- Pain and suffering;
- Loss of joy of life and emotional distress;
- Property damage; and
- More.
Suing the Hit and Run Driver If They Are Found
If the other driver is found, you will likely not have a hard time proving fault. The fact that the other driver fled the scene goes a long way in proving negligence. However, their insurance company will still do all it can to reduce your claim so as to hold onto their profits. Because of this, you need to work with a skilled attorney who can hold the at-fault party fully accountable.
Call a Katy Hit & Run Attorney Today
There is never a valid reason for fleeing the scene of a crash, yet it happens every day. If you were injured by a hit and run driver, you need to contact a Katy hit and run attorney immediately with The West Law Firm. Call today at 281-347-3247 to schedule a free consultation.