A hit-and-run accident can turn your day upside down. One moment, you’re driving or walking like normal. The next, you’re hurt, confused, and the person who caused it is long gone. You might wonder how you’re going to pay for your medical bills or fix your car. You may not even know where to start. This post breaks down what happens after a hit-and-run, what your options are, and why having a lawyer can make a big difference.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run happens when someone causes a crash and leaves the scene without stopping to give their name, number, or insurance info. They might hit a car, a person, a bike, or even damage property. In many states, this is a crime. If someone gets hurt or dies, the penalties can be serious. For example, in places like Missouri, a hit-and-run can be a felony with jail time and fines.
Some drivers try to avoid trouble by leaving a note on a parked car. But even that may not count as enough, depending on the state and the damage done. If someone leaves the scene without calling the police or reporting the crash, it can still be considered a hit-and-run.
What If the Driver Is Never Found?
A big question in these cases is: what if the driver disappears? Sometimes police can track them down using surveillance video, license plate info, or witness statements. But many times, they don’t get caught.
If the driver is never located, you might still be able to get compensation. It depends on your car insurance. If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, your policy may help pay for injuries. This coverage is usually meant for crashes where the other driver doesn’t have insurance, but it also applies in hit-and-run cases. Some policies even cover you if you’re hit while walking or biking.
Collision coverage can help pay to repair your car. But you’ll likely have to pay a deductible first. The tricky part is that insurance companies often try to pay out as little as possible. They may argue about how badly you were hurt or try to delay your claim. A lawyer can push back and make sure you’re treated fairly.
How Much Time Do You Have to File a Claim?
In Nevada, the general time limit to file a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the crash. That means you need to take legal action within that window or you might lose your chance to recover any money.
But what if the hit-and-run driver isn’t found right away? In some situations, the clock can pause. This is called tolling. The time limit might not start until the driver is located. Also, if the person who hit you is in jail or prison, the time to file might extend until after they’re released. For example, if someone is sentenced to four years in prison, your two-year window may not start until they’re out.
Even though tolling exists, it’s not something to rely on. It’s better to act quickly and speak with a lawyer early, just in case time runs out.
Will a Criminal Case Affect Your Injury Claim?
Sometimes, hit-and-run drivers face criminal charges. If the police arrest someone, they could be charged with leaving the scene, reckless driving, or worse. This can affect your civil case, which is the lawsuit you file to get paid for injuries and damages.
If the criminal case is ongoing, your civil claim might be paused until it’s done. That can delay your settlement. But if the driver is convicted, it can help your civil case. A guilty verdict might push the other side to settle quickly or admit fault. Still, a criminal conviction doesn’t guarantee a win in a civil case. That’s why it helps to have a lawyer who knows how to use all the facts and fight for the best outcome.
What If You Were a Pedestrian or Cyclist?
Hit-and-run crashes don’t just happen to drivers. Pedestrians and cyclists can be victims too. If a car hits you and drives off, you may still have coverage under your auto policy. Uninsured motorist insurance can apply even if you weren’t in a car. That includes when a driver hits you in a crosswalk or bike lane and takes off.
The big problem is proving what happened. If no one saw the crash and the driver got away, insurance companies might say you made it up or exaggerate the facts. A lawyer can help gather evidence, speak with witnesses, and make sure your story is backed up.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run
Right after the crash, your first step is to call 911 and report the accident. If you can, write down anything you remember about the other vehicle—color, make, model, and even part of the license plate. If there are witnesses nearby, get their contact info. Take photos of your injuries, your car, and the scene.
Then, get medical attention. Even if you feel okay, some injuries show up later. A doctor’s report also helps your claim. After that, report the crash to your insurance company. But be careful what you say. You don’t have to give a recorded statement right away.
Before signing anything or accepting a quick settlement, speak with a lawyer. Insurance companies may try to get you to agree to a low offer. Once you accept, you usually can’t ask for more—even if your injuries get worse later.
Why a Lawyer Can Help
A lawyer knows how to deal with hit-and-run cases, especially when the other driver is never found. They can help you file your claim on time, review your insurance coverage, and talk to adjusters on your behalf. If the police catch the driver, they can help you file a lawsuit for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Lawyers also understand how to prove fault, deal with denied claims, and take your case to court if needed. If you try to handle everything alone, you might miss deadlines, lose access to coverage, or get stuck with out-of-pocket costs.
Talk to a Hit-and-Run Lawyer Today
You don’t have to deal with the stress of a hit-and-run alone. A car accident lawyer can walk you through your options, help you file claims the right way, and fight for the money you need. If you were hurt in a hit-and-run crash, call (702) 970-4222 to speak with a personal injury attorney who can help. Whether the driver is found or not, you still have options.
