Meyers & Flowers: Serving Hit and Run Accident Victims in Chicago
A skilled car accident lawyer in Chicago can investigate your case, identify the responsible party, and build a strong claim on your behalf. At Meyers & Flowers, our hit-and-run accident lawyers in Chicago have extensive experience handling these complex cases and achieving results for our clients.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with our dedicated legal team. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight tirelessly to get you the justice and compensation you deserve.
What Is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing information or assisting those affected. This action is illegal and can have serious consequences.
In Chicago, a hit-and-run is defined as leaving the scene of an accident without fulfilling legal obligations. You must stop, provide your information, and assist injured parties. Failure to do so can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity of the accident.
The law requires you to:
- Stop immediately at the scene
- Exchange insurance and contact information
- Render reasonable assistance to injured persons
- Report the accident to law enforcement if injuries or significant damage occur
Fleeing the scene of an accident in Chicago can lead to severe penalties.
You may face:
- Fines ranging from $1,000 to $25,000
- License suspension or revocation
- Jail time, potentially up to 15 years for severe cases
- Felony charges for accidents involving injuries or fatalities
Additionally, hit-and-run convictions can result in:
- Increased insurance premiums
- Difficulty obtaining future employment
- Civil lawsuits from injured parties
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Hit and Run Accident in Chicago?
The driver, who fled the scene, is the primary party responsible. If identified, they can face both criminal charges and civil liability.
Other potential parties include the following:
- Vehicle owners can also be held responsible in certain situations. If they knowingly allowed an unlicensed or impaired person to drive their car, they may share liability for the accident.
- Employers might be liable if their employees cause a hit-and-run while on the job. This applies to company vehicles used for work-related tasks.
- In some cases, government entities could be held accountable. The city or responsible agency may face liability if poor road conditions or faulty traffic signals contribute to the accident.
- Bars or restaurants that overserved alcohol to a driver before the incident may be partially liable under Dram shop laws.
To determine liability, you’ll need to gather evidence such as:
- Witness statements
- Traffic camera footage
- Police reports
- Physical evidence from the scene
The Claims Process
Navigating the claims process after a hit-and-run accident involves several key steps. Understanding each stage can help you protect your rights and seek fair compensation
Filing an Insurance Claim
- Contact your insurance company immediately after the accident. Provide them with all available details, including the time, location, and any information you have about the other vehicle. Your insurer will assign a claims adjuster to your case.
- Be prepared to give a recorded statement about the incident. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault or injuries.
- Review your policy to understand your coverage limits and any applicable deductibles. Keep copies of all correspondence with your insurance company. Document any conversations, including dates, times, and the names of representatives you speak with.
Investigating the Accident
- A thorough investigation is crucial for building a strong claim. Collect as much evidence as possible from the accident scene. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Obtain a copy of the police report. This document often contains valuable information about the incident and may include witness statements.
- Your insurance company will conduct its own investigation. They may send an adjuster to inspect your vehicle and assess the damage. Be cooperative, but remember that you have the right to seek independent evaluations if you disagree with their findings.
- Consider hiring a private investigator if the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified. They may be able to locate additional witnesses or surveillance footage that could help your case.
Settlement Negotiations
- Once the investigation is complete, your insurance company will make a settlement offer. Review this offer carefully and compare it to your actual losses and expenses.
- Don’t feel pressured to accept the first offer. You have the right to negotiate for fair compensation. Provide documentation of all your accident-related costs, including medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
- If you’re unsure about the fairness of an offer, consult with a hit-and-run accident lawyer. They can help you understand the actual value of your claim and negotiate on your behalf.
- Be patient during this process. Negotiations can take time, especially in complex cases or when dealing with substantial claims.
Litigation Procedure
- If settlement negotiations fail, you may need to consider filing a lawsuit. Your Chicago personal injury attorney will help you determine if this is the best course of action based on the specifics of your case.
- The litigation process begins with filing a complaint in court. This document outlines your case against the defendant, which may be your own insurance company if the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified.
- Discovery follows, where both sides gather and exchange information. This may include depositions, interrogatories, and requests for documents.
- If a settlement isn’t reached, your case may go to trial. A judge or jury will hear evidence and determine the outcome. Be prepared for a potentially lengthy process, as litigation can take months or even years to resolve.
Compensation and Damages Recovery
After a hit-and-run accident in Chicago, you may be eligible for various types of compensation:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgeries, and ongoing treatments, can be recovered
- Lost wages due to time off work for recovery are also compensable
- You might receive damages for pain and suffering, which cover the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident
- Property damage to your vehicle or other personal belongings can be included in your claim
In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded if the hit-and-run driver is found and their actions were particularly reckless. These damages serve to punish the offender and deter similar behavior.
Your Chicago hit and run lawyer will help calculate the full extent of your losses, including:
- Current and future medical costs
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Emotional trauma and mental anguish
Your hit and run attorney in Chicago will negotiate with insurance companies or represent you in court to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. They’ll work to maximize your recovery and protect your rights throughout the legal process.
What Compensation Can I Get In a Hit-and-Run?
Medical Expenses
- Immediate Medical Costs: Compensation for emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and other immediate medical treatments.
- Ongoing Medical Care: Coverage for ongoing medical treatments such as physical therapy, follow-up appointments, and medication.
Lost Wages
- Lost Income: Compensation for the wages lost due to time off work for recovery from the accident.
- Future Earnings: If the injury results in long-term or permanent disability, compensation can include the loss of future earning potential.
Property Damage
- Vehicle Repairs or Replacement: Coverage for the cost of repairing or replacing the damaged vehicle.
- Other Property Damage: Compensation for any other personal property damaged in the accident, such as bicycles, clothing, or electronic devices.
Pain and Suffering
- Physical Pain: Compensation for the physical pain and discomfort resulting from the accident and injuries.
- Emotional Distress: Coverage for the emotional and psychological impact, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Other Compensation
- Impact on Relationships: Compensation for the adverse effects on the victim’s relationships with their spouse or family members due to the accident and resulting injuries.
- Punishment for the Offender: In cases where the hit-and-run driver’s behavior was particularly reckless or egregious, the court may award punitive damages to punish the offender and deter similar behavior in the future.
- Wrongful Death Claims: In cases where the hit-and-run accident results in the death of a loved one, compensation can cover funeral and burial expenses, as well as other related costs.
- Reduced Quality of Life: Compensation for the victim’s reduced ability to enjoy daily activities and hobbies they previously engaged in.
- Recovery Support: Coverage for rehabilitation services, such as physical therapy, and the cost of assistive devices like wheelchairs or prosthetics that may be needed due to the injuries.
Trust Meyers & Flowers: Chicago’s Premier Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers
At Meyers & Flowers, our Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers in Chicago understand the trauma and uncertainty that follows a hit-and-run accident. Our dedicated team of experienced attorneys is committed to providing compassionate, personalized legal representation to help you navigate this challenging time. With a proven track record of success, we leverage our deep knowledge of Illinois hit-and-run laws to pursue justice and secure the maximum compensation you deserve aggressively. We handle every aspect of your case, from thorough investigations and evidence gathering to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, litigating in court.
What sets Meyers & Flowers apart is our unwavering commitment to our clients. We recognize that each hit-and-run case is unique and tailor our approach to meet your specific needs and circumstances. Our team works diligently to ensure your voice is heard and your rights are protected throughout the legal process. We keep you informed at every step, offering clear, honest communication and strategic advice to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Don’t face the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident alone. Trust Meyers & Flowers Trial Attorneys to provide the expert legal support and representation you need to move forward. Book a consultation with us today and take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
Hit-and-Run FAQ
How can a hit-and-run accident lawyer in Chicago assist me in dealing with insurance claims?
An attorney can help you navigate the complex insurance claim process, ensuring all necessary documentation is provided. They can negotiate with insurers on your behalf to seek fair compensation.
How do I choose the best attorney for my hit-and-run case in Chicago?
Look for an attorney with experience in hit-and-run cases and a strong track record. Check client reviews, request consultations, and assess the attorney’s approach to client communication and case handling.
Is it necessary to obtain a police report for a hit-and-run incident in Illinois?
Yes, a police report is crucial for your case. It provides an official incident record, which is essential for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.