I Was Involved in a Hit and Run. Do I Still Have a Case?
Being involved in a hit and run can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. We, at Adams Cross, LLC, understand the turmoil you may be experiencing, and we are here to assure you that you're not alone during this challenging time. We know that such incidents can raise numerous questions and concerns, and our team is dedicated to providing the guidance and support you need to explore your legal options.
Adams Cross, LLC is located in Olathe, Kansas, and serves clients throughout Johnson County, Lawrence, Wyandotte County, and the Kansas City Metro area. Our attorneys have over 25 years of experience handling personal injury cases, including hit and runs. We are committed to advocating for your rights and ensuring that you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
What Constitutes a Hit and Run?
A hit and run accident occurs when an individual involved in a collision leaves the scene without stopping to identify themselves or offer assistance to those injured. Such incidents can leave victims feeling helpless and unsure of their next steps. We want you to remember that even if the responsible driver cannot be immediately identified, you still have legal options.
Gathering as much information as possible at the scene is crucial. This includes taking photos of the damage, noting witness statements, and contacting the police to file a report. Our attorneys can guide you through this process, ensuring that all necessary evidence is collected to support your case.
Importance of Seeking Medical Attention
Seeking medical attention promptly after a hit and run is essential. Even if you don't initially feel injured, some injuries may not become apparent until later. Documenting your injuries and receiving appropriate medical treatment is critical, both for your well-being and for strengthening your case.
Legal Options for Victims of Hit and Runs
As a victim of a hit and run, you might be eligible to pursue compensation through various legal avenues. You may be able to:
File a claim with your insurance company: If you have uninsured motorist coverage, this can help cover the costs associated with the accident. It's important to act quickly, as insurance companies often want to settle as cheaply as possible.
Pursue a personal injury lawsuit: If the responsible driver is eventually identified, you may have the option to file a lawsuit against them. This can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Seek restitution in criminal court: If the hit and run driver is caught and convicted, the court might order them to pay you restitution for any financial losses you've incurred.
It's important to note that Kansas is a comparative fault state. This means that if you're found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced by your percentage of fault. That's why it's so important to have a professional personal injury lawyer on your side who can help protect your interests.
Statute of Limitations in Hit and Run Cases
In Kansas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including hit and run accidents, is typically two years from the date of the accident. This means you have a limited amount of time to take legal action. Consulting with an attorney as soon as possible is crucial to ensure that your rights are protected and that you do not miss any important deadlines.
Proving Negligence in a Hit and Run Case
To successfully pursue a hit and run case, it's necessary to establish negligence on the part of the responsible driver. This involves:
Gathering evidence: This could include photos from the scene, witness statements, or any surveillance footage.
Demonstrating that the driver failed to exercise reasonable care: This means showing that they violated traffic laws or acted recklessly.
Establishing a direct link between the driver's actions and your injuries: Medical records, expert testimony, and other evidence can be used to establish this link.
Our attorneys have the resources to conduct a thorough investigation of your case, gather evidence, and build a compelling case to prove negligence.
Compensation for Hit and Run Victims
As a victim of a hit and run, you may be entitled to various types of compensation. These may include:
Reimbursement for medical expenses: This includes costs incurred for immediate medical care, ongoing treatment, rehabilitation expenses, and any future medical costs related to the accident.
Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, either temporarily or permanently, you may be compensated for lost income.
Pain and suffering: This refers to compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Property damage: You may be reimbursed for repairs to your vehicle or the fair market value if your vehicle is totaled.
Our attorneys will work diligently to assess the full extent of your damages and seek your deserved compensation.
Legal Assistance You Can Trust
Experiencing a hit and run can be a traumatic event, but remember, you're not alone. We, at Adams Cross, LLC, are here to guide you through this difficult time, offering our extensive experience and deep understanding of personal injury law to fight for your rights. Serving clients throughout Johnson County, Lawrence, Wyandotte County, and the Kansas City Metro area, we are committed to ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.