We are personal injury attorneys who have achieved results for our clients in Missouri for over 40 years.
Complexities of Hit-and-Run Accident Claims in Missouri
Hit-and-run accidents can be devastating. These events often leave their victims physically injured, as well as emotionally and financially distressed. Unfortunately, in Missouri, these incidents are becoming all too common. The victims are often left to face the challenge of seeking justice and compensation.
In these situations, personal injury lawyers can be pivotal. They can guide and support those individuals harmed by negligent drivers in hit-and-run accidents. If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident, they can help you navigate your uninsured motorist claim and pursue compensation for bodily injury and property damage.
Get in touch with Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien to schedule a consultation. Our attorneys have extensive experience in this area and can guide you through the legal process.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in Missouri
Legal Definition and Statistics
In Missouri, it’s considered a hit-and-run accident when one of the drivers involved in the collision flees the accident scene without meeting their legal responsibilities, like providing aid or identification.
In recent years, statistics have indicated that drivers are increasingly fleeing accident scenes without providing the necessary assistance. The AAA Foundation reported that 737,100 hit-and-runs occurred in 2016, resulting in 2,049 deaths, representing a 60 percent increase since 2009.
Victim’s Emotional and Financial Impact
Victims of hit-and-run accidents often face incredible challenges. They are often left alone to grapple with physical injuries, property damage, rising medical bills, and emotional distress. Furthermore, the uncertainty of identifying the at-fault driver compounds their difficulties. Who is responsible when they are seeking compensation?
In hit-and-run cases, some victims find solace in uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage protects them in scenarios where the other driver is uninsured or unidentified, such as in hit-and-run accidents.
The Insurance Claim Process in Missouri
Immediate Steps After a Hit-and-Run
After hit-and-run accidents, victims should prioritize seeking medical attention and contacting law enforcement to report the incident. Preserving evidence from the accident scene, including witness statements and photographs, is crucial for the subsequent insurance claim.
Filing an Insurance Claim
If you’re filing an insurance claim in Missouri, follow these steps to make the process go more smoothly:
- Report the Incident: Promptly inform your insurance company about the accident or incident. Provide details like date, time, and location.
- Gather Information: Collect relevant details, including the other party’s insurance information, photos of the accident scene, and any witness contacts.
- Document the Damage: Take pictures of your damaged vehicle or property. Keep records of medical treatment, repair estimates, and any expenses incurred due to the incident.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Call or visit their website to start the claims process. Provide accurate information about the incident.
- Review Guidelines: Refer to the Missouri Department of Insurance – Auto Claims for official guidelines and additional information regarding insurance claims in the state.
- Follow-up: Stay in contact with your insurance company. Provide any additional information they may require promptly.
You can navigate the insurance claim process more efficiently by following these steps. A skilled attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation for damages incurred.
Challenges in Hit-and-Run Insurance Claims
At Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien, our personal injury attorneys are instrumental in explaining uninsured motorist coverage to victims. This coverage becomes essential in hit-and-run accidents, compensating for property damage and bodily injury.
Identifying the At-Fault Party
Identifying the at-fault driver is one of the most challenging aspects of these hit-and-run accidents. At Buchanan, Williams & O’Brien, our personal injury lawyers employ their skills and resources to investigate and gather evidence to uncover the identity of the responsible party.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Negotiating with insurance companies can be complex. Our team of insurance claim attorneys in Missouri advocates for our clients, navigating discussions with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
Legal Options and Compensation
Pursuing Legal Action
Our lawyers offer essential legal guidance to victims of hit-and-run incidents, assisting them in pursuing legal action. We ensure our clients understand their rights and are informed about available legal options regarding third-party liability insurance.
Types of Compensation Available
If you are a hit-and-run accident victim, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation. These can include, but are not limited to, the following:
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Medical expenses
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Lost wages
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Pain and suffering
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Property damage
At Buchanan, Williams &O’Brien, our personal injury lawyers strive to maximize compensation for their clients’ losses.
How to Prevent Hit-and-Run Incidents
Preventing hit-and-run incidents is crucial for the safety of everyone on the road. Here are some essential tips to avoid being involved in such situations:
- Defensive Driving: Stay vigilant and alert while driving. Anticipate potential hazards, follow all traffic rules, and avoid any distractions to reduce the risk of accidents.
- Secure Parking: Always park in well-lit areas and make sure to lock your vehicle. Use security measures like steering wheel locks and alarms to deter possible parking lot hit-and-run scenarios.
- Maintain Communication: Ensuring other motorists know your maneuvers.
For complete safety guidelines regarding road safety in Missouri, the Missouri State Highway Patrol FAQs are an excellent resource to refer to.
What to Do If You Witness a Hit-and-Run
If you witness a hit-and-run incident, take immediate action. Note down the vehicle’s license plate number, the description of the car, the hit-and-run driver, if possible, and the direction they drove. Contact emergency services immediately and provide information to aid the investigation.
Remember, your role as a witness can significantly contribute to resolving the incident and holding the responsible party accountable.
Why Choose Buchanan, Williams &O’Brien?
In the aftermath of hit-and-run accidents, victims face many challenges. Personal injury lawyers skilled in hit-and-run cases, such as Buchanan, Williams &O’Brien, offer support, guiding victims through the complexities of insurance claims and legal proceedings. Our Missouri auto insurance lawyers advocate for our clients, ensure their rights are protected, and diligently pursue the compensation they deserve.
If you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident in Missouri, the assistance of our experienced personal injury lawyers can be beneficial. Contact Buchanan, Williams &O’Brien today!
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