Hit and run crashes pose a significant threat to safety in Washington D.C., making it one of the most affected regions in the United States. A hit and run accident attorney in Washington, D.C. can help you get the compensation your deserve after a hit and run. Below is the data from 2006 to 2016 of the number of fatal hit-and-run incidents in D.C. that involved at least 1 fatality:
- 2006: 8 fatalities
- 2007: 6 fatalities
- 2008 to 2011: 3 fatalities each year
- 2012: 2 fatalities
- 2013: 3 fatalities
- 2014: 2 fatalities
- 2015: 7 fatalities
- 2016: 6 fatalities
Additionally, as of April 2024, Washington D.C. ranks as the 8th worst region for deadly hit-and-runs in America, with these crashes accounting for over 18% of the city’s fatal accidents. The prevalence of such incidents underscores the urgent need for effective legal support for victims and their families.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help After a Hit-and-Run Accident in D.C.
Experiencing a hit-and-run accident in Washington D.C. can be overwhelming and traumatic. A hit and run accident lawyer at Lightfoot Law, PLLC can provide the crucial support needed to help victims navigate the aftermath and secure appropriate compensation. Here’s how they can assist:
Investigation and Evidence Collection
A Washington D.C., personal injury lawyer will thoroughly investigate the hit-and-run accident to gather all necessary evidence. This includes obtaining police reports, medical records, and eyewitness testimonies. They work with law enforcement to identify the responsible party and collect any available surveillance footage or physical evidence from the scene, ensuring that every detail is documented to build a strong case.
Identifying and Locating the Responsible Party
One of the biggest challenges in hit-and-run cases is identifying and locating the driver who fled the scene of the car accident. Personal injury lawyers utilize their resources and connections to track down the responsible party. This may involve working with private investigators, accessing DMV records, and collaborating with local authorities to increase the chances of finding the driver and holding them accountable for their actions.
Calculating Compensation for Damages
Calculating the full extent of your damages is essential for securing adequate compensation. A Washington D.C., personal injury lawyer will assess all aspects of your loss, including medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. They ensure that every type of damage is accounted for.
Obtaining Compensation
Washington D.C.’s no-fault insurance system makes it advisable for drivers to carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, which covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs regardless of who caused the accident. However, this coverage is not mandatory.
In a hit-and-run scenario, drivers with PIP coverage can file a claim with their own insurance company to cover immediate medical bills and other expenses.
If the injured party doesn’t have PIP coverage, they may be able to file a lawsuit against the responsible party if they are found. Additionally, your lawyer might seek compensation from uninsured motorist funds or other resources designed to support victims of hit-and-run accidents. These options help ensure that you are not left without financial support, even when the responsible party remains unidentified.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run crash in Washington D.C., our experienced hit and run accident lawyers in Washington, D.C. are here to help you navigate the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.