North Carolina Hit and Run Accident Attorneys
Following a car accident, drivers typically call police to sort things out and exchange information. But what happens if the other driver leaves the scene? Dealing with the aftermath of a hit and run can be especially stressful and frustrating. You need an experienced car accident attorney on your side.
Brent Adams & Associates has been fighting for the injured since our founding in 1973. We know the impact a crash can have on victims and their families. We know the challenges and obstacles they face when dealing with insurance companies. Our attorneys fight for the compensation they need and deserve.
Experienced Hit and Run attorneys who stand up for your rights
In North Carolina, it is against the law to leave the scene of an accident you were involved in. So why do drivers leave? They may not have a valid driver’s license or their car was unregistered. They may have been driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or were taking part in other illegal activity.
Whatever the reason the other driver left, you are left to deal with things. What should you do? There are steps you can take to protect your rights and your safety.
- Call police. They can secure and the scene and make sure you get any help you need. They can also take your statement, gather evidence and document what happened in an accident report.
- Do not follow the driver. No matter how upset or angry you are, stay at the scene as required by law. Pursuing the other driver also puts your own safety at risk.
- Take notes. While your memory is fresh, make a record of what you saw. Include everything you noticed – the make and model of the car, the color and any identifying marks, any numbers on the license plate you saw and what the driver looked like. If you can, take photos of the accident scene.
- Get medical attention. See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you seem to feel fine. Some symptoms of injuries may not be noticeable right away. A doctor can also document your injuries.
- Contact your insurance company. Tell them you were involved in a hit and run accident.
- Call a lawyer. Get legal advice as soon as possible to discuss your rights and your options for financial compensation.
Who pays for compensation after a hit and run accident?
You may have have uninsured motorist coverage on your policy. So your own insurance company can process your claim. However, if the other driver is located and does not have enough insurance to cover your damages, that is a different situation. Your own insurance company won’t pay for any remaining damages unless you opted for uninsured coverage.
It’s also important to remember that even your own insurance company will try to pay you as little as possible. Trying to pay you less is what they do after an accident. They may question the seriousness of your injuries. Or they’ll make a lowball settlement offer, hoping you’ll take it and go away.
Insurance companies have lawyers who help them find ways to minimize your compensation. We level the playing field. Our legal team investigates your accident. Our attorneys build a strong case and fight for maximum compensation – whether it’s through a negotiated settlement or a jury verdict.
If you were hurt in a hit and run accident, we will pursue all options to recover the maximum compensation possible. Learn more about how we can help. Contact us to schedule a free consultation. Our offices are located in Raleigh, Fayetteville, Dunn, Southern Pines, and Clinton.