Were you involved in a collision where the other driver hit your car and then fled the scene? As the victim of a hit and run incident, you might be confused and curious about what your options are. It all starts with reaching out to a Blue Springs car accident lawyer.
When you reach out to Foster Wallace Personal Injury Lawyers, we can represent you as your hit and run accident lawyer in Blue Springs. With more than 45 years of combined experience, our attorneys have recovered over $1 billion in compensation for our clients.
We’re ready to stand by your side every step of the way. It’s your injury, but it’s our fight on your behalf, and we’ll advocate for a fair outcome in your case.
Legal Framework for Hit and Run Incidents in Missouri
Under Missouri Revised Statutes §577.060, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense. The severity of the charge depends on the circumstances surrounding the incident:
- Class A misdemeanor: If the accident results in property damage exceeding $1,000, the offense is classified as a Class A misdemeanor.
- Class E felony: If the accident causes physical injury to another person or if the driver has a prior conviction for a similar offense, the charge escalates to a Class E felony.
- Class D felony: In cases where the accident causes a fatality, the offense is classified as a Class D felony.
Convictions can result in substantial fines, imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record. Additionally, offenders may face civil liability for damages caused to the victim.
Your Blue Springs personal injury lawyer can help you understand which type of charge could be at play for the at-fault parties in your case.
Common Causes of Hit and Run Collisions in the Area
Hit and run collisions can occur for a number of reasons, but several common factors tend to contribute to why drivers flee the scene. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes:
- Texting behind the wheel
- Adjusting the radio
- Failing to pay full attention
When these behaviors contribute to a crash, drivers might experience a sense of dread or panic immediately after hitting the other vehicle. Sometimes, people decide to leave in the heat of the moment rather than face the consequences of their actions.
While this isn’t an excuse, it might be an explanation. Furthermore, impaired driving frequently results in hit and run incidents as well because intoxicated drivers often fear arrest or license suspension.
Additionally, uninsured or underinsured drivers who know they cannot cover the damages they caused may choose to flee to avoid liability or legal trouble. Each of these factors complicates matters for victims, who may struggle to identify and hold the responsible party accountable.
Contact our Kansas city personal injury lawyers now.
Types of Damages Available in Hit and Run Cases
Victims of hit and run crashes might be entitled to several types of damages to compensate for their losses. Economic damages cover tangible financial costs:
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Property damage to vehicles
- Lost wages resulting from missed work
These damages aim to make the victim financially whole by reimbursing out-of-pocket costs and lost income. Non-economic damages address intangible harms, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, or mental anguish.
These damages recognize the broader impact an accident can have on a person’s quality of life beyond direct expenses. In certain cases where the driver’s conduct was particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages may also be awarded in an effort to punish the wrongdoer.
It also serves to deter them from engaging in similar behavior in the future. Together, these damages provide comprehensive compensation to help victims recover both financially and emotionally from the aftermath of a hit and run accident.
Statute of Limitations for Filing Claims
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit related to a hit and run accident is five years from the date of the incident. This period is intended to give victims ample time to gather evidence, seek medical treatment, and assess the full extent of their damages.
However, it’s advisable that you initiate legal proceedings as soon as possible by contacting a Blue Springs hit and run accident attorney as soon as possible. That way, your legal counsel can prioritize the preservation of evidence and witness testimony.
Insurance Coverage and Uninsured Motorist Provisions
Missouri law mandates that all drivers carry minimum liability insurance. This includes uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.
This provision is especially important in hit and run cases because it’s what allows victims to seek compensation through their own insurance policies when the at-fault driver is unidentified or lacks sufficient coverage. UM coverage can help cover the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
However, it’s important to note that insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, even when the victim is not at fault. Therefore, speaking with Blue Springs hit and run accident attorneys can help you understand the terms of your policy and the claims process.
Call Now To Speak With Attorneys at Our Blue Springs Hit and Run Accident Law Firm
If you were the victim of a hit and run collision, you might be feeling vulnerable, uncertain, and overwhelmed by your newfound circumstances. As unsettling as this situation may be, you’re not alone, and you have rights.
Dealing with an at-fault driver who decides to flee the scene instead of stopping their vehicle and sharing information with you can be disorienting, but a Blue Springs hit and run accident lawyer can help. At Foster Wallace, we’ve helped many people in situations just like yours.
We can pursue compensation on your behalf and advocate for you every step of the way. We’ll strive to work diligently as we investigate the details of your case, identify all potentially liable parties, and fight for the financial support you deserve. Call now for more information.
