Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a painful and stressful experience, and it’s important that you act quickly to protect your legal rights and options. In Georgia, a hit-and-run is a serious offense with severe legal consequences. As experienced Georgia car accident attorneys, we want to help guide you through the steps you need to take after a hit-and-run to protect yourself and build a strong case if necessary. Our role is to provide you with legal advice, represent your interests in negotiations with insurance companies or the at-fault driver’s legal team, and make sure that you receive the financial compensation your case deserves.
First and foremost, when considering the most important Georgia hit-and-run accident legal steps, safety should always be the top priority. If you or anyone else is injured, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Your health is our primary concern. After ensuring that you’re in a safe location, contact law enforcement right away. In Georgia, it’s required by law to report motor vehicle accidents that result in injury, death, or significant property damage (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-273). Reporting the crash not only makes sure that law enforcement can investigate the accident but also helps document the situation. Police reports are crucial when pursuing monetary compensation for your damages.
Collecting as much evidence as possible is essential in a hit-and-run case. This may include taking photographs of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Eyewitness statements and video footage from nearby security cameras or dash cams can be valuable in identifying the fleeing driver. Remember, the more evidence you gather, the stronger your case becomes. Keep in mind that Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270) imposes criminal penalties on drivers who leave the scene of an accident, particularly if they fail to assist injured parties.
One of the biggest challenges in hit-and-run cases is identifying the at-fault driver. If the driver remains unidentified, we can explore your uninsured motorist coverage (U.M. coverage). In Georgia, many drivers carry U.M. coverage as part of their auto insurance policies, which can help compensate for damages caused by a hit-and-run driver who cannot be located.
In cases where the driver is found, they may face both civil and criminal charges. From a civil standpoint, we can help you pursue a personal injury claim to recover damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. This process involves gathering accident-related evidence, such as medical records and witness statements, and negotiating with insurance companies or the at-fault driver’s legal representation.
If the hit-and-run resulted in a fatality, the victim’s family may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim under O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2. The criminal consequences for the at-fault driver can include fines, jail time, and suspension of their driver’s license under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270.
Handling a hit-and-run accident can be complicated, but we’re here to ensure that you have the legal support you need to seek justice and monetary compensation. You are not alone in this. Every step you take after the crash can impact the success of your claim, so acting promptly and working with an experienced Georgia car accident lawyer can make a big difference in the outcome of your case.
If you or a loved one are harmed in a hit-and-run accident, your first priority should be your safety and the safety of anyone else involved. Call the police to report the accident and provide them with as much information as possible about the fleeing driver, including the vehicle’s make, model, and color. If you can safely do so, gather evidence, such as photos, eyewitness information, and any video footage that may help identify the driver. Seeking medical attention is also critical, even if you don’t feel seriously injured at the moment.
Yes, you may still be able to recover damages through your own insurance policy, particularly if you have uninsured motorist (U.M.) coverage. U.M. coverage can compensate you for injuries and damages caused by an unidentified or uninsured driver. It’s important to review your policy and understand the coverage you have in place. We can assist in filing the appropriate claims to maximize your compensation.
In Georgia, hit-and-run drivers face serious criminal penalties, including fines, jail time, and the suspension or revocation of their driver’s license under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270. If the accident resulted in severe injury or death, the hit-and-run may be classified as a felony, leading to even more severe consequences. In addition to criminal charges, the driver can be held financially responsible in a civil lawsuit for the damages they caused.
If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Georgia, we’re here to help you through the legal process and fight for the financial compensation your case deserves. At Shani O. Brooks P.C., we have experience representing clients in complex car accident cases, including hit-and-runs, and are committed to achieving the best outcomes for our clients. Contact our office today to learn more about how we can assist you.
Contact our hit-and-run accident lawyer in Georgia at Shani O. Brooks P.C. by calling 404-920-4736 to receive your free consultation. Our car accident law firm represents injured clients in Atlanta and throughout all of the state of Georgia. We’re ready to stand by your side during this challenging time.