Hit and run accidents refer to auto collisions, where one of the parties involved quickly escapes the scene. They are the most complicated type of traffic accidents, as it is difficult to hunt down the driver who drove away without warning. People injured in hit and run accidents undergo greater despair, as they are unsure of who will pay for their loss. If the instigated injuries are severe and there are no witnesses around, the victim might even die on the spot. There are three main types of hit and run accidents:

• Driver hits another moving car, and immediately leaves
• Driver hits a parked (and possibly vacant) vehicle and drives off
• Driver hits a pedestrian or biker and flees

If the first case applies, you could be looking at serious injuries and substantial property damage. The loss in the second case could be limited to vehicular damage, whereas the bodily injuries in the third case are likely to be fatal in nature. Whatever the case, Georgia Personal Injury Attorney can help you acquire the compensation you deserve.

It is every driver’s civil duty to remain at the scene of the accident until law enforcement arrives. The uninjured party should ensure that the other obtains medical attention as soon as possible. Running away after hitting a vehicle or person is irresponsible, unethical, and illegal, which is why the hit and run driver can expect harsh legal consequences. Oftentimes, hit and run drivers are identified through security cam footage or live witnesses. Unfortunately, there are instances where the fugitive leaves no trace, so they are able to get away with their actions.

If you live in a no-fault state, the identity of the hit and run driver shall not be necessary to obtain compensation. Your damages will be covered by your own car insurance company; the extent of coverage depends upon the type of policy you purchased. If you are a pedestrian or biker who doesn’t have auto insurance, your health insurance shall pay for medical bills. If you don’t have any medical insurance, then you are indeed in a grave situation.

In an at-fault state, the driver whose negligence or misconduct caused the accident, is responsible for compensating the other party’s loss. Fault is determined by the police report, witnesses, and any other evidence submitted by either party. The payout is reduced if the victim is found be partially responsible for the incident. With hit and run accidents, the standard procedure cannot be executed due to absence of the perpetrator.

If the hit and run driver is recognized and brought forward, he/she may face civil and criminal penalties, depending upon the severity of damages. You can file a compensation claim with their insurer with the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer. As the victim of a hit and run, you shall be eligible to sue them for economic and uneconomic losses. The jury may award punitive damages as well, in order to punish the perpetrator and help you cope with the pain and suffering. Many drivers in at-fault states have auto insurance that provides coverage for uninsured or underinsured vehicles. This insurance policy will kick in if the at-fault party remains undiscovered. This makes sense as most drivers flee the accident scene because they either lack insurance, are driving under the influence, or use a stolen car.