Columbus Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers
Legal help when you’re injured in a hit-and-run in Ohio
It can be incredibly stressful to be injured or involved in a car accident. When the other driver flees the scene, however, things can get even worse. Hit-and-run accidents can leave you with a lot of questions and uncertainty, as well as having to recover physically, financially, and emotionally.
At Soroka & Associates, LLC, we understand these challenges and are here to help during this difficult time.
How can we help?
- What is a hit-and-run?
- What are the common causes of Columbus hit-and-run accidents?
- What injuries are caused by hit-and-run accidents?
- What should I do after a Columbus hit-and-run accident?
- What happens if I can’t find the other driver?
- How can your Columbus hit-and-run accident lawyers help?
- Do you have a Columbus hit-and-run accident lawyer near me?
What is a hit-and-run?
A hit-and-run happens when a driver involved in a car accident leaves the scene without stopping to provide their information or offer assistance. In Ohio, drivers are legally required to stop, provide their contact and insurance information, and help anyone needing assistance, like by calling 911 for medical help.
Hit-and-run accidents are, unfortunately, more common than you might think. They can happen anywhere: at a busy intersection, on a quiet street, in a parking lot, or even on the highway. No matter where the car accident takes place, a hit-and-run can have serious consequences.
What are the common causes of Columbus hit-and-run accidents?
Hit-and-run drivers often flee the scene for a reason. Here are some reasons why these accidents can happen:
- A driver who is intoxicated might panic and leave the scene to avoid being arrested for drunk driving.
- Drivers without proper documentation (like insurance or a driver’s license) may fear the financial and legal consequences of being caught.
- Drivers with previous violations or warrants may flee to avoid further legal issues.
- Some drivers leave the scene to avoid admitting they were texting, eating, or otherwise distracted when the accident occurred.
- Young or inexperienced drivers might flee out of fear or uncertainty about what to do.
What injuries are caused by hit-and-run accidents?
Hit-and-run accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening, including:
- Whiplash. Sudden jerking movements during a collision can strain the neck and upper back muscles.
- Broken bones. The impact of a car crash can break arms, legs, ribs, or other bones.
- Traumatic brain injuries. Head injuries, including concussions, can have long-lasting effects on your health.
- Spinal cord injuries. Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis.
- Lacerations and bruises. While minor, these injuries can still be painful and necessitate medical treatment.
- Emotional trauma. The fear and stress of a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling anxious or depressed.
The Columbus car accident attorneys at Soroka & Associates, LLC can help you work through the legal process after a hit-and-run accident.
What should I do after a Columbus hit-and-run accident?
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident, taking the right steps can help protect your health, your legal rights, and your ability to seek compensation.
- First, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If you’re able to, move to a safe location away from traffic. If anyone is hurt, dial 911 immediately to get medical assistance.
- Reporting the accident to the police is essential. Police will document the scene, collect evidence, and start an investigation to locate the fleeing driver. Provide as many details as you can, like the color, make, model, or license plate of the other vehicle.
- Photograph or video the damage to your car, the accident location, and any visible injuries.
- Photograph any skid marks, road conditions, or other evidence that could help with the investigation.
- If there were witnesses to the hit-and-run, ask for their names and contact information. Witness stories can help identify the at-fault driver and prove your case.
- Even if you feel fine, get a medical evaluation immediately. Some injuries, like brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not display symptoms right away. Your medical records will also serve as evidence if you file a claim.
- Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with all the facts you have, but avoid making any statements about fault or the extent of your injuries until you’ve talked to a Columbus hit-and-run lawyer.
- Contact a Columbus car accident attorney. At Soroka & Associates, we can help you understand your options, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What happens if I can’t find the other driver?
We know that it’s incredibly frustrating to be injured in a hit-and-run accident, especially when you can't track down the person responsible. You might be worried about how you'll pay for your medical bills, car repairs, and other expenses. But don't worry, you do have options.
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage
Ohio law requires insurance companies to offer uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can be a lifeline in hit-and-run cases. If you have UM coverage as part of your policy, it can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.
Personal injury protection (PIP)
Some insurance policies also include personal injury protection (PIP), which covers medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault. You should check your policy to see if you’re covered.
Health insurance
If UM or PIP coverage isn’t available, your health insurance may help cover medical expenses. However, you may still have out-of-pocket costs or deductibles.
Legal action against third parties
In some cases, other parties might share responsibility for the accident. For example, if poor road conditions or a defective car part contributed to the crash, you may have a claim against the government or a manufacturer. Our hit-and-run attorneys can explain more about this situation.
How can your Columbus hit-and-run accident lawyers help?
Handling a hit-and-run case on your own can be a nightmare, especially when you’re dealing with your physical and emotional recovery. Our skilled lawyers can take the pressure off you by:
- Investigating the accident to uncover evidence and identify the at-fault driver.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation.
- Advising you on your rights and options if the driver is not found.
- Representing you in court if necessary.
Do you have a Columbus hit-and-run accident lawyer near me?
Soroka & Associates is located at 503 South Front Street, Suite 205, Columbus, OH 43215. If you are unable to meet with an attorney at our offices, we can make other arrangements.
Columbus hit-and-run accident lawyers on your side
Recovering from a hit-and-run accident takes time, support, and the right legal representation. At Soroka & Associates, LLC, we’re dedicated to helping accident victims get back on their feet. Whether it’s tracking down the at-fault driver or working with your insurance company, we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible. If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run, don’t wait to seek legal help. We can work to secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Please call our offices or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. We represent the clients we fight for on a contingency fee basis. This means that we get paid only if there is a verdict or settlement in your favor. We serve clients in Columbus and throughout Central Ohio, including in Licking County, Delaware County, Fairfield County, and beyond.