Pursuing Compensation After a Hit and Run Crash 

 Posted on April 06, 2023 in Blog Post

 Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, or property and leaves the accident scene without identifying themselves or assisting the injured parties.

Insurance data suggests that Illinois ranks fourth among the U.S. states with the most hit-and-runs. Such accidents often leave victims with significant physical injuries and property damage, leaving them to wonder how they can recover financial compensation for their losses.

Uninsured Motorists Coverage

If the hit and run driver is never caught, there may still be a way to recover compensation. In Illinois, victims of hit-and-run accidents may pursue financial compensation through their own insurance company's uninsured motorists coverage.

This is a type of coverage that is mandatory in Illinois and it is designed to provide protection to drivers who are injured in accidents caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers.

In the case of a hit-and-run accident, the at-fault driver is considered uninsured because they left the scene of the accident without identifying themselves.

Reporting Hit-and-Runs

To make a claim under uninsured motorists coverage, victims must report the hit-and-run accident to the police and their insurance company as soon as possible. Illinois requires you to file a police report within 10 days of the accident.

Once you have reported the incident to the authorities, it is also important to contact an experienced Park Ridge hit-and-run accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Collecting Evidence

Of course, victims should seek medical attention for their injuries first, but documenting the accident and any property damage is also important. If police are at the scene, they will collect evidence for their investigation.

You must also collect as much information as possible about the accident including witness statements, footage and photographs of the scene, and any other evidence that could help establish liability.

Insurance Compensation

Once your insurance company has received your claim, they will conduct an investigation of their own to determine the extent of your injuries and property damage.

If the insurance company finds that you are eligible for compensation under their uninsured motorists coverage, they will offer a settlement to cover your losses.

Downplaying Losses

At this point, it is important to note that insurance companies are for-profit businesses and may try to minimize the compensation they offer you. They may downplay your losses to avoid costly, full compensation.

This is where a skilled and experienced Park Ridge hit-and-run accident lawyer can be an extremely useful asset. They can help you navigate the claims process, negotiate with your insurance company and their representatives on your behalf, and ensure that you pursue the maximum compensation possible for your injuries and losses.

Contact a Park Ridge Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer

Hit-and-run accidents in Illinois can often leave victims injured, shocked, and confused. Your health and recovery should be your top priority during this time and pursuing financial compensation should be the least of your worries.

Contact a Park Ridge Hit-And-Run Accidents Lawyer 

If you want to learn more about uninsured motorist coverage, hit-and-run accidents in Illinois, and how a lawyer can help, contact Quinn Law Group, LLC. Our Des Plaines personal injury attorney can provide the legal advice and support you need. Call 847-232-7180 for a free consultation. 

Sources:

https://insurify.com/insights/states-with-the-most-hit-and-runs/

https://www.illinoisvehicle.com/insurance-basics/uninsured-motorist-coverage