Note: This article is confirmed by Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
WRITTEN BY: Mr. Sris
Since 1997, Mr. Sris has led the firm, focusing on the most challenging criminal and family law cases… His background in accounting and information management aids in financial and technology-related cases… Involved in significant legislative changes in Virginia.
Insight: My focus since founding the firm in 1997 has always been directed towards personally handling the most challenging and involved criminal and family law matters our clients face.
Insight: I find my background in accounting and information management provides a unique advantage when handling the intricate financial and technological aspects inherent in many modern legal cases.
Insight: As someone deeply involved in the community, I believe it’s important to not only practice law but also to actively participate in shaping it, which is why I dedicated effort towards amending Virginia Code § 20-107.3 and achieving state recognition for cultural milestones.
Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Dorchester, MD
What is a hit and run accident
In Maryland, a hit and run accident refers to any traffic incident where a driver involved in a collision fails to stop at the scene. State law mandates that drivers must remain at the location, exchange information with other parties, and provide reasonable assistance to anyone injured. When a driver violates these requirements, they commit a criminal offense in addition to any civil liability for damages caused.
The immediate steps following such an incident involve contacting law enforcement to file an official report. Victims should gather as much information as possible, including vehicle descriptions, partial license plate numbers, witness contact details, and photographs of the scene. This documentation becomes vital when attempting to identify the fleeing driver. Police investigations may involve reviewing traffic camera footage, checking nearby security cameras, and following up on witness statements.
Legal options for victims include pursuing claims through their own insurance policies. Maryland requires uninsured motorist coverage as part of auto insurance policies, which can provide compensation when the at-fault driver cannot be identified or lacks insurance. Additional recovery avenues may involve personal injury protection benefits or medical payments coverage. In cases where the driver is eventually identified, victims can pursue claims against that driver’s insurance or file a civil lawsuit for damages.
Professional legal assistance helps victims understand their rights and available options. Attorneys familiar with Maryland traffic laws can guide clients through the process of dealing with insurance companies, preserving evidence, and meeting statutory deadlines. They can also help coordinate with law enforcement investigations and ensure all necessary documentation gets properly submitted.
How to handle a hit and run incident
The moments following a hit and run incident require specific actions to protect your interests. First, ensure everyone’s safety by moving to a secure location if possible. Call 911 immediately to report the incident and request medical assistance if injuries occurred. Provide dispatchers with as much detail as possible about the fleeing vehicle, including color, make, model, direction of travel, and any visible damage.
Documentation becomes your most valuable tool. Use your phone to photograph the entire scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, and surrounding landmarks. Capture images from multiple angles and distances. If witnesses are present, obtain their names and contact information. Note the exact time and location of the incident, including street names and nearby businesses. This information assists police investigations and supports insurance claims.
File an official police report as soon as possible. Maryland law requires reporting accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. The police report creates an official record of the incident and may lead to identification of the fleeing driver. Provide officers with all collected evidence and witness information. Obtain a copy of the report number and the responding officer’s contact details for future reference.
Contact your insurance company within 24 hours to initiate the claims process. Provide them with the police report number and all documentation collected. Maryland’s uninsured motorist coverage typically applies to hit and run incidents, treating them as accidents caused by unidentified uninsured drivers. Your attorney can help communicate with insurance adjusters, ensure proper claim filing, and address any coverage questions that arise during the process.
Can I recover compensation after a hit and run
Recovering compensation after a hit and run accident involves addressing Maryland’s insurance system. The primary source of recovery typically comes from your own uninsured motorist coverage, which Maryland requires on all auto insurance policies. This coverage applies when the at-fault driver cannot be identified or lacks insurance. It provides compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage up to your policy limits.
Additional compensation sources include personal injury protection benefits, which cover medical expenses and lost income regardless of fault. Maryland requires minimum PIP coverage of $2,500, though higher limits are available. Medical payments coverage, if purchased separately, provides additional funds for medical treatment. These coverages work together to address immediate financial needs following an accident.
When law enforcement identifies the fleeing driver, additional recovery options become available. Claims can proceed against that driver’s liability insurance policy. If the driver lacks sufficient coverage, your underinsured motorist coverage may apply to cover the difference between their policy limits and your actual damages. In cases where the driver has no insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage remains the primary source of compensation.
The recovery process involves documenting all damages thoroughly. Keep detailed records of medical treatment, expenses, lost income, and vehicle repair costs. Your attorney can help calculate appropriate compensation amounts and negotiate with insurance companies. They understand Maryland’s insurance regulations and can ensure you receive all benefits available under your policies and applicable laws.
Why hire legal help for hit and run cases
Hiring legal assistance for hit and run cases provides practical benefits throughout the recovery process. Attorneys familiar with Maryland traffic laws and insurance regulations understand the specific requirements for these incidents. They can guide clients through the involved interplay between criminal investigations and civil compensation claims, ensuring all necessary steps get completed within statutory deadlines.
Professional representation helps manage communications with insurance companies. Attorneys handle discussions with adjusters, submit documentation properly, and address coverage questions. They understand insurance policy language and can identify available benefits that clients might overlook. This experienced lawyer becomes particularly valuable when dealing with uninsured motorist claims, which involve specific notification requirements and documentation standards under Maryland law.
Legal assistance supports evidence preservation and investigation efforts. Attorneys can work with law enforcement to follow up on investigations, request traffic camera footage, and identify potential witnesses. They understand what evidence carries weight in insurance claims and civil proceedings. Proper evidence handling increases the likelihood of identifying fleeing drivers and strengthens compensation claims.
The emotional support provided by legal professionals should not be underestimated. Hit and run incidents create significant stress for victims dealing with injuries, vehicle damage, and insurance processes. Having an attorney manage the legal aspects allows clients to focus on recovery. Legal representation levels the playing field when dealing with insurance companies and helps ensure victims receive fair treatment throughout the claims process.
FAQ:
What should I do immediately after a hit and run?
Call police immediately and document everything. Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible details about the fleeing car. Get witness contact information if available.
How long do I have to report a hit and run in Maryland?
Report to police as soon as possible. Maryland law requires immediate reporting of accidents involving injury or significant property damage. File within 24 hours at minimum.
Will my insurance rates increase after a hit and run claim?
Typically not for uninsured motorist claims in Maryland. These claims are generally considered not-at-fault incidents, which should not trigger rate increases with most insurance companies.
What if I only have minor damage from a hit and run?
Still report to police and document everything. Minor damage can indicate larger issues, and having an official report helps if problems surface later or the driver gets identified.
Can I sue the hit and run driver if they get caught?
Yes, if identified, you can file a civil lawsuit for damages. This includes medical expenses, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering compensation through their insurance or personal assets.
What evidence helps most in hit and run cases?
Photos of the scene, witness statements, security camera footage, and vehicle descriptions. Partial license plate numbers and distinctive vehicle features provide valuable leads for police.
How does uninsured motorist coverage work for hit and runs?
It treats hit and run incidents as accidents caused by unidentified uninsured drivers. Your UM coverage pays for damages up to your policy limits after meeting any applicable deductibles.
What if the hit and run driver has no insurance?
Your uninsured motorist coverage still applies. Maryland requires UM coverage specifically for these situations where at-fault drivers lack insurance or cannot be identified after fleeing scenes.
Can passengers in my vehicle make claims too?
Yes, passengers can file claims under your uninsured motorist coverage. They have the same rights to compensation for injuries and damages resulting from the hit and run incident.
How long do hit and run investigations typically take?
Investigations vary based on available evidence. Some cases resolve quickly with clear camera footage, while others may remain open indefinitely if little evidence exists for identification.
What damages can I recover after a hit and run?
Medical expenses, lost income, vehicle repair costs, rental car expenses, and pain and suffering compensation. Recovery amounts depend on your insurance coverage limits and actual damages.
Should I talk to the other driver’s insurance if they’re found?
Consult your attorney first. Insurance adjusters may seek statements that could affect your claim. Legal guidance ensures proper communication that protects your interests.
Past results do not predict future outcomes