According to the Revised Code of Washington (RWC) 46.52. 020, leaving the scene of an accident where someone is injured, or property damage occurs is illegal.
Even though there are serious consequences for leaving an accident scene (significant fines, jail time, etc.), hit-and-run incidents are still common in Seattle.
In this situation, you may wonder if recovering compensation is even possible. After all, the person was not identified.
At Bernard Law Group, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be. While you may be unsure what to do, you can feel confident we aren’t. With over $500 million (and counting) recovered for accident victims in Seattle and surrounding areas, you can feel confident we will aggressively pursue any source of compensation possible.
The first step is to call our office to set up a risk-free, no-cost consultation.
Understanding Hit and Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver causes an accident and then leaves the scene without providing contact information or stopping to help.
There are numerous reasons why a driver might flee a crash site, including fear of legal repercussions, lack of insurance, or even panic. In Seattle, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident without fulfilling the legal obligations of exchanging information and aiding the injured, if necessary.
How and Why Hit and Run Accidents Happen
These incidents can range from minor scrapes in parking lots to severe collisions resulting in significant injuries or fatalities. Often, the reasons behind a hit-and-run are rooted in the driver’s desire to avoid DUI charges, uninsured driving penalties, or arrests for outstanding warrants.
Laws Regarding Hit and Run in Seattle
Washington state law categorizes hit-and-run accidents based on their severity—from leaving the scene of a minor accident without property damage to fleeing an accident involving injuries or death. The penalties for these offenses can be severe, including substantial fines, loss of driver’s license, and even imprisonment, depending on the accident’s seriousness and the driver’s criminal history.
At Bernard Law Group, we know the details of Washington’s hit-and-run laws and leverage this knowledge to advocate for our clients’ rights and best interests. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s crucial to get legal support to navigate the complexities of these cases and pursue the justice you deserve.
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Navigating Compensation Recovery with Bernard Law Group
Bernard Law Group will explain your legal rights and options following a hit-and-run accident. We can guide you through the options to secure compensation for injuries, lost wages, and emotional distress caused by such accidents.
Leveraging Insurance for Your Benefit
Navigating insurance claims is important to securing financial recovery after a hit-and-run accident. Our team has decades of experience negotiating with insurance providers to ensure you benefit from every dollar you’re entitled to under uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverages.
In many hit-and-run cases, the liable party is never identified. You must turn to your auto insurance to recover compensation when this happens. While UM and UIM are not required in Seattle, adding them to your policy now can help you save the hassle and financial uncertainty of not having them.
Pursuing Legal Action Against the Perpetrator
If the hit-and-run driver is later identified, Bernard Law Group doesn’t hesitate to escalate matters to secure your compensation. We prepare and prosecute direct lawsuits against the guilty party to recover every penny not covered by insurance claims.
Immediate Steps Following a Hit and Run in Seattle
The steps you take after a hit-and-run accident can significantly impact the outcome of legal action or claims. Some tips we recommend to help protect yourself and your rights include:
Secure Your Safety and Gather Evidence
Immediately after a hit-and-run incident in Seattle, prioritize your safety by moving to a secure location. Then, collect any evidence from the scene.
This may include:
- Taking photos of the damage to your vehicle
- Noting the time and location of the accident
- Capturing any physical injuries
Look for witnesses who might have seen the event and can provide statements or additional details.
Remember, evidence can be lost or compromised quickly at accident scenes. Taking time to collect evidence now will be beneficial in the future.
Report the Incident to the Police
Contacting the police as soon as you can is a critical step. Filing a police report provides an official accident record, which is necessary for insurance and legal processes. Be prepared to provide all your information, including descriptions of the offending vehicle or driver.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, getting a medical evaluation is essential. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and having a medical record linking your injuries to the hit and run can be crucial for your compensation claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the hit-and-run. Providing them with the police report number, your evidence, and any witness information will help your claim process. Remember, even if the at-fault driver is unidentified, you may still be covered under your uninsured motorist policy.
Consult with Our Hit and Run Accident Attorney
Finally, contacting an experienced car accident attorney in Seattle can significantly influence the outcome of your case. When you call our office, we will help you understand your rights, explore all your compensation options, and represent you in dealings with insurance companies and court if necessary.
Protecting Your Rights After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Seattle
When you contact our experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer in Seattle, you can feel confident you have a dedicated, experienced advocate. We will work tirelessly to find all possible avenues of compensation and demand justice on your behalf.
Get started today by calling our office to schedule a free consultation.
