Hit-and-Run Accidents in Parkersburg

A hit-and-run car accident occurs when one motor vehicle operator collides with another driver and subsequently flees the scene. It is a punishable crime if the at-fault driver is caught. If the at-fault driver is not caught, you may rely on uninsured automobile insurance for compensation to cover your accident-related losses. To learn more about hit-and-run accidents in Parkersburg, get in touch with one of our local car crash attorneys.

Why Would Drivers Flee the Scene of an Accident?

When a driver flees the scene of an accident, he or she is typically uninsured, doesn’t have a driver’s license, or is impaired. Even if the negligent motorist is found, he or she may not have insurance. For this reason, the team at Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law, encourages all licensed drivers in Parkersburg to carry uninsured motorist coverage on their policy before a hit-and-run collision occurs so they may recover compensation for injuries or damage to their vehicle.

Recovering Damages after a Parkersburg Hit-and-Run Accident

Similar to other automobile accident cases, an injured claimant would be entitled to compensation for his or her medical treatment, pain and suffering, annoyance, inconvenience, and lost wages if they were employed and had to miss work as a result of the injuries they sustained in a hit-and-run. Additionally, he or she may be able to recover loss of future earning capacity if they are unable to return to work because the injuries limit them in such a way that they can’t perform their duties in that position any longer.

Furthermore, if there are aggravating factors like the driver was texting or the impaired by alcohol or drugs while operating his or her vehicle, the value of the claim may increase. Specifically, an egregious hit-and-run case may yield punitive damages, which are designed to punish the defendant for malicious and wanton behavior and deter others from acting similarly. A local attorney can help identify the value of an injured person’s hit-and-run car crash claim.

How Can a Local Lawyer Help Those Injured in Hit-and-Run Collisions?

If the other driver is found and charged, an experienced attorney serving the Parkersburg area can investigate to determine whether they have insurance and pursue that if possible. Additionally, if there is a criminal charge and documented injuries, the claimant may have the right to seek compensation through the state of West Virginia under the Crime Victims’ Compensation Act. Our legal team can assist with that process by providing the prosecutor’s office with the information they need on an injured person’s behalf and ensuring his or her case is handled with care and attention to detail.

Reach out to a Parkersburg Attorney after a Hit-and-Run Accident

The most important things to do after a hit-and-run accident in Parkersburg include seeking medical treatment, contacting your automobile insurance provider, and contacting an attorney. One of our diligent lawyers can evaluate the facts of your case and determine whether you have a viable claim for compensation. Call today for professional legal assistance.