My Accident Was Caused By a Hit-and-Run Driver: What are My Options?

There are few things more frustrating than being involved in a car accident. Even a relatively minor fender bender can ruin your day. A collision is made so much worse when the other driver speeds off without stopping. 

Under Washington law (RCW 46.52.020), drivers have a legal duty to stop their vehicle and remain at the scene. Unfortunately, despite being a serious criminal offense, hit-and-run accidents remain a serious problem. 

If you were struck by a hit-and-driver, please know that you still have options available. You are entitled to financial compensation Here, our Spokane auto accident lawyers explain three things you should know about hit-and-run collisions. 

1. You Should Report the Accident and File a Police Report

In Washington, all crashes that result in injuries or moderate property damage should be reported to law enforcement. If the driver who caused your accident fled the scene without stopping and exchanging information, you should try to secure as many details as possible. Certainly, if you can get a vehicle description of the license plate number, preserve that information. Beyond that, make sure you file a police report. You were the victim of a crime. Filing a report will make it easier to protect your rights and pursue financial compensation. 

2. The Driver May Still Be Identified

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that there are approximately 750,000 hit-and-run crashes in the United States each year. However, not all of these cases go unsolved. Quite the contrary, the responsible driver may still be identified—either because they voluntarily come forward, after a police investigation, or after a private investigation. It is imperative that you get as much information as possible because the at-fault driver may still be located. An experienced Spokane, WA attorney will conduct an investigation. In some cases, videos or other evidence may crack the case. When a driver is identified, they can be held liable—either civilly, criminally, or both. 

3. Compensation May Be Available Through Your Own Insurance Policy

Even if the hit-and-run driver is never identified, injured victims still have options available. As a starting point, our Washington hit-and-run accident lawyers can help you pursue financial compensation through your own insurance coverage. If you have no-fault coverage, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, or underinsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, there may be a straightforward path to compensation. We will explore every option to ensure that you are in the best position to maximize your recovery. 

Call Our Spokane, WA Car Accident Attorney for Immediate Assistance

At‌ ‌Albrecht‌ ‌Law‌ ‌PLLC, our Washington car accident lawyers have the skills, knowledge, and experience to handle the complete range of hit and run claims. If you or your loved one was injured by a driver who fled the scene of the crash, we are here to help. 

For a no cost, no commitment case evaluation, please contact our law firm now. We represent motor vehicle accident victims throughout Eastern Washington, including in Spokane, Spokane Valley, Pullman, Newport, Sprague, and Ritzville. Call (509) 495-1246.