Louisiana is an at-fault state, meaning that if you are involved in a car accident, the driver who caused the crash is responsible for covering the resulting damages. However, when a driver flees the scene after an accident, the situation becomes more complex. If you find yourself injured in a Baton Rouge hit-and-run, here are the steps you need to take to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Your first priority should be to call 911 and report the hit-and-run accident. Avoid the temptation to chase after the fleeing driver, as this can put you and others at risk. Instead, focus on recording any details you remember about the vehicle and the driver, such as:
- The make, model, and color of the car
- The full or partial license plate number
- The direction the vehicle was traveling
- The driver’s physical description
- Any bumper stickers, visible damage, or other unusual details
Seek medical attention, even if you do not have any visible injuries, so that you can obtain evidence of the damage you suffered. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information and if they would be willing to provide a statement. Collect as much evidence as you can at the scene, including photos of the damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area.
Using Uninsured Motorist Coverage for a Hit-and-Run
While uninsured motorist coverage is not mandatory in Louisiana, it can be a lifeline in hit-and-run situations. This type of insurance covers your damages when you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver or a hit-and-run driver. If you have this coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurance company to help cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to the accident, even if the fleeing driver is never identified.
When filing a claim, it’s important to be mindful of how you communicate with your insurer. Even routine statements can be used to limit your compensation. Before speaking with an adjuster, review these tips for talking to insurance companies after an accident.
You must hold uninsured motorist coverage before the accident occurs, so it is important to invest in this policy early on.
Investigating and Identifying the Fleeing Driver
In some cases, the at-fault driver may be able to be identified and held directly accountable for the harm you suffered. An attorney can be your advocate in this situation, conducting a comprehensive investigation to find the fleeing motorist.
They will review any available surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras to see if the fleeing vehicle was captured on video. Analyzing debris left at the scene, such as broken glass or car parts, can provide valuable clues about the make and model of the vehicle. Your attorney may also work with accident reconstruction experts to piece together how the accident occurred and gather evidence to support your case.
In addition to these efforts, your lawyer will collaborate closely with law enforcement to gather evidence and build a strong case on your behalf. This may involve sharing information, reviewing police reports, and pushing for a thorough investigation.
Contact a Baton Rouge Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer
When you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, you deserve robust legal representation to help you navigate the traumatic aftermath. An attorney can not only help you parse through the available forms of insurance coverage, but they can also launch a comprehensive investigation to help identify the at-fault driver. Time is of the essence, so do not wait to seek help—contact a Baton Rouge car accident lawyer to discuss your case and begin your legal journey.