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Illinois law is clear that drivers are required to remain at the scene of an accident until police arrive if the collision involved bodily injuries, death, or major property loss. Unfortunately, some motorists make a run for it before the police can arrive, making it difficult to hold them accountable for your damages.
If you have been involved in a hit and run car accident in Chicago, our skilled car wreck injury attorneys are ready to help. Let us work to identify the at-fault driver and assist you with pursuing all of the available avenues for compensation. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and pursue the financial recovery you need to support your family.
There are many different factors that can lead to a Chicago hit and run car accident. Some of the common reasons for drivers to leave the scene include the following.
Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs often leave the scene to avoid facing an arrest for DUI. Some drivers believe that fleeing gives them time to sober up or avoid testing altogether, although leaving the scene could lead to an arrest for a different crime.
Not every hit-and-run involves calculated thinking. Some drivers panic in the moment, especially after a serious impact. They may not think clearly and make a split-second decision to drive away, hoping to deal with the consequences later. Panic does not excuse the conduct, but it is a common factor in these cases.
There are times when a driver leaves the scene of a car accident because they are afraid of being arrested. They might have an active warrant, or they could be driving without a valid license. In any of these scenarios, a person might decide the risk of running is worth taking.
Other motorists might leave the scene of an accident if they know they do not have insurance coverage. Not only could they face criminal charges for driving without insurance, but they might also find themselves on the hook for any damages in the crash if there is no policy in place to pay for it.
A hit-and-run crash in Chicago can lead to confusion, but this does not always mean you must pay for the accident on your own. You may have options for financial compensation, depending on whether you can find the other driver or have insurance that will cover the crash.
If the police find the driver, you have the opportunity to file an injury lawsuit against them just like with any other crash. This includes filing a claim on their liability policy in order to recover your damages.
If the driver cannot be identified, your own insurance policy becomes central to the claim. Uninsured motorist or underinsured motorist coverage is designed for this situation. You still need to prove that another driver caused the crash, but you pursue the claim through your own insurer. Damages in a hit-and-run case often include some or all of the following:
Our attorneys can answer your questions about what your case could be worth during an initial consultation.
Hurt in a hit and run car accident in Chicago? Our firm can help you seek justice. Reach out today for a confidential consultation with a seasoned attorney at Schlack & Bassmaji. We could help you achieve the justice and compensation you and your family deserve.