Olympia Hit and Run Accident Lawyers

Hit and run accidents are some of the most heinous accidents that can happen to a person. These can result in serious injuries, or even death. Drivers who leave the scene of a car accident are committing a crime in Washington state, and when the driver at fault flees the scene, it can seem impossible to know what steps to take next. Contacting a personal injury attorney immediately following your accident will let us take over your case and help you navigate the confusing legal steps to be taken after a hit and run accident.

Understanding Hit and Run Accident Cases

Hit and run accidents can result in serious, life-altering injuries, as well as expensive vehicular damage. Hit and run accidents may occur when an automobile hits a person on the street, it may occur when a vehicle hits a parked vehicle, or it may occur while both vehicles are in motion and occupied. These accidents can range from minor damages to serious, even fatal injury, and it’s crucial to know your rights in an accident like this.

There are many reasons a driver may flee the scene of an accident:

The driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol
The driver may be driving with a suspended license
The driver may not have auto insurance
The driver may want to avoid taking responsibility for the accident

No matter the reason behind a hit and run, one universal truth remains. Without the driver, it is impossible to contact the driver’s insurance company to file a claim. With the aid of law enforcement, it may be possible to track down the driver based on evidence at the crime scene. Evidence can include transferred paint chips, broken auto parts, and witness statements, all of which may help law enforcement pinpoint the driver behind the hit and run.

However, without knowing the identity or insurance company behind a hit and run, it may be necessary to file a claim with your own insurance under an uninsured motorist clause to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. If you or law enforcement are unable to identify the perpetrator of the hit and run, you may still be eligible for compensation from your own insurance, and if the driver is identified, it is imperative that you have your own personal injury attorney working hard to make sure you are well taken care of.

If you are able to find the motorist, you may be able to seek a claim from their insurance for your injuries and damages. Additionally, if the driver is facing criminal charges, you may be able to bring the case forward in a civil suit, where you may be entitled to additional compensation.

Case Results

$400,000

High speed rear end collision on SR512 in Pierce County causing injuries to back, neck and hand. Settled during jury trial.

$850,000

Hazardous waste truck collision resulting in loss of spleen, gallbladder and liver damage in King County.

$620,000

Two auto collisions resulting in spinal surgery in Thurston County.

Our Approach to Hit and Run Accident Cases

At Ron Meyers & Associates, our approach to hit and run accident cases in Washington is centered around providing compassionate and dedicated legal representation to our clients who have suffered the devastating effects of these accidents. We understand the immense physical, emotional, and financial toll that hit and run accidents can have on victims and their families. Our priority is to ease the burden you face during this difficult time and help you pursue the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Comprehensive Investigation: When you turn to us for help, we conduct a thorough investigation into the hit and run accident to gather critical evidence and identify the responsible party. Our experienced legal team works diligently to piece together the events leading to the accident, examining physical evidence, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage to establish liability.

Navigating Insurance Claims: Hit and run accidents can leave victims unsure of where to turn for compensation. If the at-fault driver is unidentified or uninsured, it may seem like your options are limited. However, our skilled attorneys are well-versed in dealing with insurance companies and understanding the intricacies of uninsured motorist coverage. We advocate on your behalf and pursue all available avenues to ensure you receive the compensation you need for medical expenses, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and more.

Advocacy in Court: If the responsible driver is identified, we vigorously pursue your case in court. Our trial-tested lawyers have a proven track record of success in litigating hit and run accident cases. We will present a compelling case to hold the negligent driver accountable for their actions and seek maximum compensation for your injuries and damages.

Compassionate Support: Throughout the legal process, we provide compassionate support and clear communication. We understand the stress and uncertainty you may be experiencing, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Our team is always available to answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide personalized attention to your case.

Maximizing Compensation: Our primary goal is to maximize the compensation you receive for your losses. Beyond immediate medical expenses and property damage, we consider the long-term impact of the accident on your life. We fight for fair compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and any future medical care or rehabilitation needed to aid in your recovery.

Statute of Limitations Awareness: We are diligent about adhering to the statute of limitations for hit and run accident cases in Washington. Time is of the essence, and we ensure that all necessary legal actions are taken within the appropriate timeframe to protect your rights and preserve the evidence crucial to your case.

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How Ron Meyers & Associates Can Help with Hit and Run Accident Cases

Attorneys Serving Olympia & Western Washington

At Ron Meyers & Associates, we have worked thousands of hit and run accident cases and our team of experienced attorneys are dedicated to making sure that you and your loved ones are taken care of after a hit and run accident. We know how traumatizing a hit and run accident can be, and we are prepared to take your case and seek the maximum compensation available for your necessary repairs, medical bills, as well as for your own pain and suffering. Contact us today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hit and Run Accident Cases

If you are involved in a hit and run accident, prioritize your safety and the safety of others at the scene in Olympia. Seek medical attention for any injuries and call the police to report the incident. Try to gather as much information as possible about the fleeing vehicle, such as its make, model, color, and license plate number. Also, collect contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident.

Yes, you may still be eligible for compensation even if the responsible driver is never identified. In Washington, uninsured motorist coverage is required in auto insurance policies, which can provide coverage for hit and run accidents. This coverage can help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs, among other losses.

A personal injury attorney can be instrumental in navigating the complexities of hit and run accident cases in Olympia. They can conduct a thorough investigation, gather evidence, and work with law enforcement to identify the at-fault driver. If the driver is not found, your attorney can help you file an uninsured motorist claim with your own insurance company and negotiate for a fair settlement.

Yes, there is a statute of limitations for filing a hit and run accident claim in Washington. Generally, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s essential to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure that all necessary legal actions are taken within the appropriate timeframe.

If you are the victim of a hit and run accident, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including medical expenses, vehicle repairs, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages related to the accident. An experienced personal injury attorney can assess the specific details of your case to determine the appropriate compensation to pursue.

Washington follows a comparative fault rule, which means you can still pursue compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. It’s essential to have skilled legal representation to protect your rights and advocate for fair compensation.

Gathering sufficient evidence is crucial in hit and run accident cases. To strengthen your case, try to collect information about the fleeing vehicle, such as its color, make, model, and license plate number. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. Witnesses’ contact information and their statements can also be valuable evidence. Provide all this information to your attorney, as it can aid in identifying the at-fault driver and building a strong case.

If you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage in your insurance policy, recovering compensation in a hit and run accident can be more challenging. However, it’s still possible to explore other avenues for recovery. An experienced personal injury attorney can review your situation and explore potential sources of compensation, such as third-party liability or other insurance policies that may cover your damages.

Dealing with insurance companies can be complex and overwhelming, especially in hit and run accident cases. To protect your rights and interests, avoid providing recorded statements or signing any documents without consulting your attorney first. Insurance adjusters may try to settle quickly and for less than what you deserve. Having a skilled attorney by your side can level the playing field and ensure you receive fair compensation.

If the at-fault driver in the hit and run accident is identified, you may have the option to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. This lawsuit can seek compensation for your injuries, damages, and pain and suffering. Your attorney can guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit and represent you in court to seek justice for your losses.

Yes, even if law enforcement does not find the driver responsible for the hit and run accident, you can still pursue a claim with your insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. Your attorney can assist you in filing the claim and advocating for the compensation you deserve based on your policy’s coverage limits.

Yes, you may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress resulting from a hit and run accident. Emotional distress can be a significant part of the damages in these cases, especially if you experienced severe trauma and distress due to the accident. Your attorney can assess the impact of emotional distress on your life and seek appropriate compensation for your pain and suffering.

In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including hit and run accidents, is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, it is essential to act promptly and consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all necessary legal actions are taken within the appropriate timeframe. Delaying legal action could jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.