Being involved in a car accident is a scary experience for anyone, but being the victim of a hit-and-run can be especially confusing and traumatizing. If you were involved in a motor vehicle collision where the other party kept driving, you still have the right to seek compensation for the damages caused. Consult with a skilled Belvidere hit and run car accident lawyer to hold the other driver responsible and begin moving forward with your life.
At Franks Gerkin Ponitz Greeley, we’ve guided many clients through hit-and-run accident claims. We understand how difficult the aftermath of a car accident can be, and we’re here to help you recover.
Any instance where one of the parties in a traffic accident fails to stop is considered a hit-and-run. There are several reasons why the other driver may get into a car crash and continue driving. Hit and runs commonly occur when the at-fault driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs or otherwise driving recklessly or carelessly. It’s also more likely for unlicensed or uninsured drivers not to stop after an accident.
In 2023, there were nearly 300,000 motor vehicle crashes across the state of Illinois. Boone County saw approximately 791 crashes that year, of which about 221 resulted in injuries of varying severity. Drivers are legally required to stop if they are in any way involved in an accident. Failing to do so can bring about criminal proceedings in addition to victims seeking compensation, depending on the circumstances.
Hit and run injury claims in Belvidere are most likely to be processed by the Boone County Courthouse, located at 601 N. Main Street, Belvidere, IL 61008. Personal injury cases are typically handled by the courthouse’s civil division, but the Boone County Circuit Court may also oversee any simultaneous criminal proceedings.
Like any car accident, hit and runs can cause physical injuries of varying degrees. Common injuries include whiplash and other neck injuries, bruising, lacerations, head trauma, sprains, and broken bones. Hit and runs can also affect a person’s memory and other cognitive functions. No matter how minor or significant your injuries may be, you have the right to pursue compensation for the mental anguish and physical harm caused to you.
In the event you experience a hit and run, be sure to find a safe location and call the police. Once law enforcement arrives, you can provide a full account of what occurred and any information you recall regarding the driver, their vehicle, or their license plate. It’s also advised that you seek medical attention shortly after, even if you don’t think you have sustained any injuries. Medical professionals can document any physical harm caused and provide proper care.
Once you’ve sought medical treatment, it’s a good idea to consult with a qualified hit-and-run accident lawyer. A personal injury attorney with experience in hit and runs can be a valuable resource to have when you want to file a claim against the other driver. By seeking compensation, you may be able to pay for most of the damages caused by the hit-and-run.
Costs following a collision include medical bills, mental health care, repairs to damaged vehicles, lost wages, and more. A hit-and-run lawyer can conduct an investigation to find the negligent driver and build a strong case proving they were at fault for the accident.
There are various reasons why a hit and run accident can happen in Belvidere, IL. All drivers involved in an accident are required to remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives. However, some drivers don’t adhere to this traffic law.
Hit and runs can occur because the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, potentially fleeing for fear of a DUI charge. Drivers may also flee if they’re uninsured or lack a valid driver’s license, thus trying to avoid further penalties.
Yes, hit and runs are against state law in Illinois. All drivers involved in a traffic collision are required to remain at the scene until the police arrive. This is because you are expected to call law enforcement and emergency services if the other party is unable to do so because of an injury. Hit and runs are serious and can result in criminal charges.
Illinois is an at-fault state for car accidents. This means the damages and settlement payout directly depend on how at fault, or responsible, you were for the accident. Typically, one of the parties in an accident is determined to be the at-fault driver because of their negligent actions. The at-fault driver is required to provide compensation to the other party.
In Illinois, proving which party was at fault in a hit and run can be tricky. For example, even if it appears obvious that the other driver was drunk behind the wheel, their insurer may argue you were partially responsible if you admit fault at any point.
Your drunk driving car accident lawyer in Belvidere can advise you on what not to say and speak on your behalf with insurance representatives. Evidence that may help you prove the other driver was at fault includes witness statements, security footage, and the police report.
After a hit and run accident, remain as calm as possible while you get yourself and any other victims to a safe location. Proceed to call the police and remain at the scene until they arrive. After you give your statement, it’s strongly recommended that you seek medical attention.
Even if you don’t think you were hurt, medical professionals can document any physical harm sustained and provide treatment for less obvious injuries. Then, be sure to promptly contact a car accident lawyer.
At the personal injury law firm of Franks Gerkin Ponitz Greeley, our legal team has extensive experience handling a variety of traffic accidents, including complex cases such as hit and runs. Contact us today to discuss your unique case with a skilled injury attorney.