The law requires all drivers to stop and exchange information at the very least when an accident occurs. Some drivers flee the scene, leaving victims without the information needed to pursue financial recovery.
At Galloway Jefcoat Injury Attorneys, founded in 1996, our Lake Charles hit and run accident lawyer provides answers and solutions. Set up a free consultation with a Lake Charles car accident lawyer now so we can help you identify those responsible and hold them accountable.
Why People Flee the Scene of an Accident
For victims facing injuries and financial loss, understanding why a hit-and-run driver fled the scene can be difficult. It is not always clear why some people flee, but a variety of factors often lead them to avoid stopping and instead try to hide from their responsibilities:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a very common cause of fleeing the scene. They believe the outcome of a DUI will be worse.
- A lack of a valid driver’s license or insurance can be another factor, especially when the driver is not operating their own vehicle.
- Panic and confusion, and while that may not seem logical, it is very much a real reason that people flee. They are just scared.
- Fear of arrest or other legal consequences is another reason some drivers flee the scene.
- They stole the vehicle and therefore do not want to be caught with it, believing that fleeing is the most obvious way out of the situation.
If you are in an accident like this, and the at-fault party leaves, you can feel angry and frustrated about what happened to you. Do not stop there, though. Contact our Lake Charles personal injury lawyer for the legal guidance you deserve in this difficult situation.
"I have used Galloway Jefcoat a few times and have always been very satisfied. Furthermore, all of the people who work there are very professional, nice, and courteous."
What You Need to Know About Hit and Run Laws in Lake Charles, LA
Under Louisiana Revised Statutes §14:100, hit and run occurs when a person intentionally fails to stop after an accident to render aid or provide identification. From a legal standpoint, those who flee the scene of the accident face fines and potential jail sentences in serious cases where injuries or death occur. On the civil side, victims face an uphill battle in recovering damages.
Police will seek out the driver of a hit and run, and most often they do find them. In that situation, you can file a claim against the driver for your losses, as you would any type of personal injury matter. This is separate from any criminal charges that the individual faces.
In cases where the driver’s identification is not known, victims can file a claim against their own uninsured driver policy. This coverage is part of your auto insurance policy and may apply when the at-fault driver cannot be identified. There may be limitations on your recovery, and proving the value of your claim can be tricky.
"Galloway Jefcoat are amazing professionals who are very client focused. They will guide you thru all the details to help get your litigation solved. I was involved in a crash that ultimate required a knee replacement"
What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident
Victims experiencing injuries and damage to their vehicle after a hit-and-run accident face a difficult path to recover those losses. What you do right after the accident can play a role in the outcome of your claim. When possible and safe for you, take these steps to protect yourself and gather data:
- Get out of the way of additional injury. After a hit and run, collect yourself to be sure you are okay. You can call 911 immediately to request medical and legal support. If you are in a busy area or on the highway in Lake Charles, move to the side of the road.
- If you can do so safely and quickly, look at the car that hit you. Try to remember the license plate. If they stop for a second, take a photo of the car or its license plate for police to use later. Do not pursue them.
- Get any evidence from the scene you can. That includes photos of the accident location, damage to your vehicle, and statements from witnesses who saw what occurred.
- Provide the police with information that you know as soon as possible. Dispatchers may be able to have police on the lookout as they come towards your location. Provide information about the type of car, color, and any distinguishing features of the driver. When police arrive, only share facts and avoid making any statements that incriminate you.
- Get medical care immediately. Do not wait to go to the hospital for care. This clearly indicates what your injuries are and that they are directly tied to the accident.
By taking these steps, you preserve all available evidence. Once you get medical care, hire a hit and run accident attorney serving Lake Charles to guide you in getting any other available evidence to substantiate your claim. Our team is ready to help you. Review the Galloway Jefcoat Injury Attorneys case results today.
"As a client of Galloway Jefcoat for over two years I want to take a minute to say how much I appreciate the team handling my case."
The Value of Your Hit and Run Accident Claim
Victims of hit-and-run accidents may seek compensation for any losses they sustain. Some examples of those losses common in these types of car accidents include:
- Medical expenses from emergency care, medical treatment, hospitalizations, surgeries, and follow-up care
- Loss of income from being unable to work due to your injuries
- Pain and suffering from all you experienced
- Emotional trauma, mental anguish, and anxiety
- Property damage to your vehicle or other assets
- Loss of quality of life due to the ongoing limitations you experience
Victims of car accidents like this deserve legal support. That is why you will get a free case review with our legal team to build a strong claim.
"Great experience, from day 1 I felt like I finally had someone on my side and that feeling didn't leave me for 1 single moment."
Schedule a Free Consultation with Our Lake Charles Hit and Run Accident Attorney
Your future matters, and when someone’s irresponsible behavior puts you at risk, we want to help you.
Contact our Lake Charles hit and run accident lawyer now for a free consultation to discuss what happened to you. For decades, Galloway Jefcoat Injury Attorneys has been a resource and advocate for victims in the area.
"Galloway Jefcoat helped me at a time when I felt lost and taken advantage of by my employer."