Atlanta Hit And Run Accident Lawyer
If you were in a hit and run collision, it is common to feel powerless or hopeless. But you are not alone. Even if the at-fault driver is never found, an attorney can still help you receive compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, emotional distress, and other damages. Here at Sawyer Injury Law, our Atlanta hit and run collision attorneys will do everything in their power to hold the at-fault driver responsible, or seek maximum compensation from other sources, including your uninsured motorist policy.
What is a Hit and Run?
Georgia is one of the worst states in the country when it comes to traffic violence, ranking fourth in the nation in 2017 for traffic deaths despite only being the eighth largest state, according to the Department of Health. Many of these fatalities were hit and runs. A hit and run, or “fleeing the scene” of a crash, occurs when a motorist drives away without giving aid to injured parties, leaves before contacting the police or waiting for police/first responders, and fails to give their information to any other parties involved in the crash. While they may not have caused the collision, a driver who commits a hit and run is in violation of the law, and will face criminal charges if they are caught. In terms of civil lawsuits, drivers who commit hit and runs automatically cast doubt on their innocence, making it easier for you to prove fault.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Hit and Run Victims
Hit and run deaths are at an all time high, according to AAA, and two user groups make up the majority of these deaths. Tragically, most fatal hit and runs involve pedestrians or bicyclists, despite these two vulnerable groups making up a tiny proportion of road users. Similarly, cyclists and pedestrians are seriously injured in hit and run crashes at very high rates. The reasoning behind this is simple—the driver can easily get away if the victim is not in a car.
How Likely is it to Catch the Negligent Driver?
If the driver who hit you has already been identified or caught, you are one of the lucky ones. Most hit and run drivers get away with the crime, especially if the crash does not involve a death. However, it may not be necessary to find the driver in order for you to receive financial compensation. You may be able to seek compensation from your UM coverage by filing a personal injury lawsuit against your insurer. You need to work with an attorney if you decide to go this route.
Contact an Atlanta Hit and Run Collision Attorney Today
Hit and run collisions have an extra degree of emotional trauma. The knowledge that another person left you on the side of the road, injured and in need of medical help, can be hard to deal with or understand. After all, we like to think that most people, deep down, are good. If you were hit by a driver and they fled the crash scene, we can help. Call the Atlanta hit and run collision attorneys at Sawyer Injury Law today at 404-777-7890 to set up a free consultation.
