Hit-and-Run Accidents – What Can You Do?
Hit-and-run accidents happen more often than we’d like to think. In Ohio, it’s against the law to leave the scene of an accident, but many drivers still do it out of fear of the consequences they may face. These consequences can include previous DUI charges, a suspended license, a criminal record, and driving without insurance. If you’ve been a victim of a hit-and-run, a Toledo lawyer specializing in these cases can help you seek justice and compensation.
Devastating hit-and-run accidents are all too common in Ohio, leaving victims and their families facing unimaginable consequences. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022 alone, there were a staggering 3,549 reported hit-and-run accidents in the state. Shockingly, a significant number of these accidents result in fatalities for pedestrians and cyclists.
The harm caused by these incidents can include severe injuries such as traumatic brain and spinal cord damage, internal organ damage, fractures, and even amputations. The aftermath of such accidents often involves lengthy, painful recoveries involving surgeries, extended hospital stays, rehabilitation, and permanent disability.
Accident Claims Involving Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists in Ohio
In Ohio, the law regards hit-and-run drivers as uninsured drivers. Therefore, unless the authorities apprehend and prosecute the suspect in criminal court, you must file a claim with your insurance carrier to obtain compensation for injuries.
Upon discovering that the at-fault driver of a motor vehicle or hit-and-run accident in Ohio does not carry the minimum required automobile liability insurance, it can be alarming when you or a family member suffer significant injuries. However, options exist after such an accident involving an uninsured driver. Insurance companies offer uninsured motorist (UM) coverage and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, which can provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and other losses, including wrongful death. If an uninsured or underinsured driver causes injury to you, your insurance company will cover all damages within the limits of your UM/UIM policy. Nevertheless, it is important to note that obtaining full compensation can be challenging despite purchasing this specialized coverage.
Unfortunately, many insurance companies attempt to dispute claims or offer less compensation than you deserve. Their primary goal is to maximize profit by minimizing payouts. Even reputable carriers engage in these practices. Some common tactics that they employ include shifting blame onto you, disputing the value of your damages, requesting unnecessary paperwork, and proposing inadequate settlements.
Get Expert Representation After a Hit-and-Run Accident with Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault.
The Toledo hit-and-run attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault work with local law enforcement to investigate the circumstances of the accidents that injure our client victims; it is rare for hit-and-run drivers to be caught unless someone gets the license number of the driver’s vehicle or the accident was recorded on video.
Hit-and-run accident victims or those hit by uninsured/underinsured drivers should think twice before dealing with any insurance company that disputes legitimate injury claims. The Toledo hit-and-run accident attorneys at Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault continue to protect the welfare of injured drivers and their families throughout Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan and have done so for more than 65 years. Contact us for a free consultation if you have been injured by a hit-and-run/uninsured driver at 419-843-6663 or fill out our online contact form.
