A hit-and-run accident can leave you with severe injuries, vehicle damage, and questions about what to do next. When the at-fault driver speeds away from the scene, you do have options for pursuing compensation. However, South Carolina has specific guidelines and deadlines for hit-and-run car accident cases.
The team at David Blackwell Law understands the complexity of these claims. Let our Indian Land hit-and-run accident lawyer handle the details while you focus on your health. For a free consultation, contact David Blackwell Law today.
Why Do You Need a Lawyer After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run can complicate your ability to recover compensation. You may wonder how you’ll pay for medical expenses and vehicle repairs without the at-fault driver’s insurance information. The answer is often made clearer and easier when you have an experienced hit-and-run car accident lawyer who can:
- Conduct a crash investigation – An attorney can try to track down the at-fault driver using police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
- Document your injuries – A lawyer can obtain your medical records and communicate with your healthcare provider about the extent and severity of your injuries.
- Evaluate your losses – An attorney can determine your current and future losses, including lost income, ongoing medical treatment, and pain and suffering caused by the crash.
- Pursue compensation from the at-fault driver – If the hit-and-run driver is located, a lawyer can take legal action against them, demanding the compensation you are owed.
- File an uninsured motorist claim – A lawyer can file a claim through your own uninsured motorist insurance if the at-fault driver isn’t found.
- Negotiate a fair settlement – A lawyer can counteract an attempt by the insurer to downplay your injuries or deny your claim.
How David Blackwell Law Can Help with Your Claim
David Blackwell Law has been helping injured South Carolinians in Indian Land and throughout the state since 2003. We’ve recovered meaningful compensation for our clients to help them move past someone’s negligent or unlawful harm.
Beyond financial justice, our law firm takes pride in our commitment to hard-working auto accident victims who deserve top-notch client service and legal advocacy. Some of our clients have kindly shared their experiences, such as this one:
“I tried to handle dealing with the insurance company myself, and got the run around for 9 months. I called David Blackwell Law, and got it settled in about a month. They were very helpful, and kept me informed of what was going on. If I’m ever in another accident, I’m not dealing with the insurance company I’m calling and letting them handle it.” – Chris Catledge
Our personal injury attorney works on a contingency basis: you pay us only if we secure money for you. And there’s never any fee for your initial consultation.
Can I Be Compensated If the Other Driver Left the Scene of the Accident?
There are several options for you to seek compensation for a hit-and-run car accident, whether the driver is found or not:
- Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage – South Carolina requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage, which also applies to hit-and-run collisions. You may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other losses.
- Collision coverage – If you carry collision coverage on your auto policy, it can help pay for repairs to your vehicle.
- Medical payments (MedPay) coverage – MedPay is optional in South Carolina. If you have it, it can help cover immediate medical expenses for you and your passengers, regardless of fault. It’s beneficial for copays, deductibles, and emergency room visits.
- Personal injury protection (PIP) – Although South Carolina does not require PIP coverage, some drivers may choose to carry it. Like MedPay, it can help pay for medical care and may also cover lost wages and other crash-related costs.
- Personal injury claim – If the hit-and-run driver is found, you can file a personal injury claim against their liability insurance. You could seek compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. An Indian Land car accident lawyer can build a personal injury case proving the hit-and-run driver was at fault and caused your injuries.
Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Cover Hit-and-Run Accidents?
In most hit-and-run collisions, your uninsured motorist coverage applies. There is typically a deductible, but you may qualify for financial compensation for losses such as:
- Medical expenses – This includes the cost of emergency care, ambulance transport, hospital stays, follow-up doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, surgeries, and any long-term rehabilitation you may need due to your injuries.
- Lost wages – If your injuries prevent you from working, temporarily or permanently, you may be entitled to compensation for your lost income. This also includes future lost earning potential if you cannot return to your previous job or career path.
- Pain and suffering – Not all harm is physical. Emotional distress, anxiety, and mental anguish after a traumatic hit-and-run can affect your daily life. You may be eligible for compensation related to your emotional and psychological pain, especially when injuries lead to lasting discomfort or lifestyle changes.
- Property damage – Whether your car was totaled or needs repairs, you may recover the costs of fixing or replacing your vehicle. This can also include reimbursement for rental cars or alternate transportation while your vehicle is being repaired.
Time Limit to File a Hit-and-Run Accident Claim
Under South Carolina law, car accident victims have three years to file a claim. However, your insurance company likely has shorter deadlines if you want to file a claim under your UM coverage. Some insurers require victims to report the collision within 24 hours. Waiting too long to file a car accident claim can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation. It’s best to speak with a lawyer for hit-and-run accidents as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Get in Touch with Our Indian Land Car Accident Attorney for Help
At David Blackwell Law, we are committed to helping hit-and-run victims pursue the compensation they deserve. With over 20 years of experience, a track record of strong results, and a compassionate and determined legal team, we are here to fight for you.
Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how our Indian Land car accident attorney can help.