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Seeking fair compensation may feel overwhelming on your own. To hold the liable driver accountable, you’ll need to investigate your case, complete paperwork, and understand the hit-and-run laws in your state. Many accident victims choose to work with a motorcycle accident lawyer who can help them seek justice and work out a fair settlement.
Motorcycle Accident Legal Options for Hit-and-Run Victims
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident and the driver fled the accident scene, your legal options include:
- Filing an insurance claim with your personal injury protection (PIP) provider
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver, if they are located
Most states require motorcycle riders to carry at least a minimum amount of PIP coverage, which will help pay for losses such as medical bills and property damage. Some riders also opt in for additional insurance policies, such as uninsured motorist (UIM) protection. This policy comes in handy if you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, as it helps pay for the damages the other driver caused.
Damages You Can Recover by Suing the Hit-and-Run Driver
In severe injury cases, your damages may exceed the limits of your insurance policy. Many accident victims choose to file a lawsuit to recover the cost of all their losses, such as:
- All medical treatment expenses
- Damage to your vehicle or other belongings
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Reduced quality of life
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
You could also recover wrongful death damages if you lost someone you love in a fatal motorcycle accident.
Legal Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases and How Your Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Overcome Them
The primary legal challenge in a hit-and-run case is proving liability. After fleeing the scene of the accident, the at-fault driver may be difficult to locate. However, your attorney can collect physical evidence, speak to witnesses, and work with law enforcement officers to track down the driver who hurt you.
Your lawyer will also:
- Review your insurance policy to determine how much it will cover
- Provide advice on the steps you should take after a motorcycle collision
- Answer any questions you have
- Review your legal options with you
- Speak with insurance adjusters to help you pursue a fair settlement
- Guide you through the legal process and take some of the stress off you
- Explain any laws you should be aware of, such as the statute of limitations, CCP § 335.1
- Work to hold the at-fault party liable and ensure they face hit-and-run accident consequences
Evidence Your Lawyer Will Gather in Unidentified Driver Accidents
Since the liable party left the accident scene, your lawyer will need to conduct a thorough investigation to uncover their identity. Some of the evidence they may reference as they build your case includes:
- The police report
- Surveillance camera footage from nearby homes, stores, or offices
- Traffic camera photos or videos
- Any evidence you captured, such as written reports or witness phone numbers
- Expert witness statements
- Statements from eyewitnesses
- Your medical records
- Statements from accident reconstruction experts
Your legal team can also look into the driving records of potential suspects.
Post-Accident Considerations for Hit-and-Run Crash Victims
The scene of a hit-and-run accident likely feels chaotic and overwhelming. Here are a few tips to keep in mind after a motorcycle accident:
- Seek immediate medical attention. Motorcycle accidents can cause severe injuries, and it’s important that you have your condition assessed by a doctor.
- Collect any evidence you can, as this could help your lawyer find the at-fault driver. If you are dealing with serious injuries, don’t worry about gathering evidence. Your lawyer will handle this for you.
- Speak to the police and give them an honest account of what happened. The details you provide will be compiled into a police report, which your lawyer will reference.
- Contact your insurance company. You can also leave this task to your lawyer if you do not feel comfortable handling insurance communications on your own.
- Consider working with a personal injury lawyer. They will help you understand your legal options and make a challenging time less stressful.
Work With Our Personal Injury Attorney After a Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Crash
Motorcycle accident victims don’t need to manage the legal process alone. The team at KJT Law Group can help you pursue the motorcycle accident compensation you deserve.
To find out more about how to navigate the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident, call us today at (818) 507-8525. Our motor vehicle accident team will provide you with a free consultation.
