Suffering injuries in a hit-and-run accident can be one of the most overwhelming and frustrating events a person might experience. In addition to the excruciating pain, emotional trauma, and financial upheaval any accident can cause, a hit-and-run also creates a sense of uncomfortable uncertainty. What if the police never catch the hit-and-run driver? Will it still be possible to recover compensation?
If you’ve sustained injuries in a hit-and-run crash in North Dakota, don’t give up hope. The experienced attorneys at Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., can help you understand your rights and options. With us on your side, you can increase your chances of recovering the full and fair compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you.
Reasons People Flee the Accident Scene
Most drivers are responsible citizens who have difficulty understanding why an individual would flee the scene of an accident without stopping and exchanging information. However, there are many reasons a driver might speed away after causing an automobile crash, including:
- Drunk Driving – If a person has been operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, they may fear the criminal repercussions of facing law enforcement. Alternatively, their intoxication may inhibit their decision-making to such an extent that they fail to consider the implications of their actions.
- Uninsured Driving – Some uninsured motorists flee to avoid the financial exposure of being responsible for a car crash.
- Outstanding Warrants – If an individual has other legal issues, such as an outstanding warrant for an unrelated incident, their fear of the police may prompt them to drive away from the crash.
- Panic – Even if none of the above reasons apply, sometimes people become so emotionally overwhelmed after a car accident that they feel unable to face what happens next.
What to Do After a Hit and Run
If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, the first thing you should do is ensure your own safety and well-being. If you sustained injuries, call 911 or ask someone else to do so on your behalf. Even if you feel your injuries are minor, it’s essential to get checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some serious injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately noticeable and can be very dangerous if not treated.
If you can, try to collect as much information about the fleeing vehicle and driver as possible. Write down the car’s license plate number, make, model, and color, as well as any distinguishing features like bumper stickers or damage. If there were any witnesses, get their names and contact information. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle or property damage. Report the accident to the police and contact an experienced North Dakota hit-and-run attorney right away.
Evidence Used to Locate a Hit-and-Run Driver
To identify and locate a hit-and-run driver, law enforcement may use various types of evidence, including:
- Witness statements
- Surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras
- Physical evidence left at the scene, such as pieces of the fleeing vehicle
- Tips reported to Crime Stoppers or on social media
- Data from license plate readers or toll booths
- Cell phone records placing the suspect in the area
An experienced hit-and-run attorney can work with investigators and experts to uncover all possible evidence and build a strong case. Even small details that may seem insignificant could be the key to identifying the responsible driver.
Recovering Compensation If the Driver Is Found
Because North Dakota is a no-fault state for car accidents, drivers must have a $30,000 minimum personal injury protection (PIP) insurance plan for economic losses such as medical expenses and lost income. For losses that exceed this amount, your path to compensation will depend on what happens in the hit-and-run investigation.
If the hit-and-run driver is identified and located, you can seek compensation through their auto insurance policy. North Dakota law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, as well as $25,000 for property damage.
Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
If the driver was uninsured or their coverage is insufficient, you may need to turn to your own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy for further compensation beyond your PIP coverage. An attorney can advise you on all potential avenues for recovering the compensation you need to move forward.
Recovery Options If the Driver Is Not Found
Even if the hit-and-run driver is never identified, you may still have options for recovering compensation for your losses. Depending on the terms of your auto insurance policy, you may be able to file a claim with your own provider.
In North Dakota, uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory. This type of coverage can pay for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses after a hit-and-run.
If you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, you may be able to tap into other types of insurance, such as your health insurance or disability insurance. An experienced attorney can review your case and advise you on the best path forward based on your unique circumstances.
Contact Our North Dakota Personal Injury Attorneys for a Free Consultation
At Pringle & Herigstad, P.C., our attorneys understand the unique challenges hit-and-run victims face in North Dakota. Our law firm has fought on behalf of injured individuals for more than a century, and we are ready to put our experience, knowledge, and skills to work for you. Our seasoned lawyers can give you the support and advocacy you need, handling the paperwork and legal procedures while you focus on healing. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how we can fight for the compensation you deserve.
Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. is committed to supporting individuals in North Dakota, including Grand Forks and Minot, as well as the surrounding areas. Our dedicated team is here to provide legal assistance and guidance to those facing the complex challenges that arise from these incidents.
