Hit and Run Accidents in Indiana

Category: Car Accidents

Article by Tuley Law staff

Hit and run accidents can be devastating for victims and their loved ones. These accidents can be life-altering from a physical, emotional, and financial perspective. Hit and run accidents are also a very serious crime. If you or a loved one have been involved in a hit and run accident, you may be eligible for compensation.

The accident lawyers in Indiana at Tuley Law are here to assist you throughout the legal process of your hit and run accident case.

 

Why Do People Flee from Accidents?

In many instances, fleeing from the scene of an accident or committing a hit and run is connected to an additional or existing crime. A driver may flee the accident for one or more of the following reasons:

• Driver is intoxicated
• Has an outstanding arrest warrant
• Carries illegal drugs or weapons
• Is driving a stolen vehicle
• Does not have insurance

What to Do if You are the Victim of Hit and Run Accident

If you have been hit by a hit and run driver, stay calm and follow these steps immediately following the accident:

Assess Yourself and Any Passengers for Injuries

Be sure to check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If someone is injured, do not try to move them from their seat as this could result in further injury.

Call 911

Contact law enforcement to ensure the accident is documented, and medical personnel can be dispatched to the scene.

Document the Scene of the Accident if Possible

Take photos of the scene and note any additional details of the accident. If able, walk around the scene to ensure you have fully documented evidence of the accident.

Gather Information from Eyewitnesses

Gathering information from witnesses at the scene is crucial to building a successful case. It is recommended you collect names and contact information of drivers, passengers, and bystanders involved.

Seek Medical Care

It is important to be checked over by a medical professional, even if you are unsure if you have sustained any injuries.

Alert Insurance Company

Make a thorough accident report to your auto insurance company, but do not sign any statements without receiving legal advice first.

Contact an Attorney

It is easy to become overwhelmed after experiencing an accident. After following the steps above, contact an attorney. The team at Tuley Law can help you navigate the complexities of hit and run cases.

Types of Compensation for Hit and Run Accident Victims

If you or a loved one were injured hit and run accident in the state of Indiana, you may be entitled to compensation. Damages covered may include the following:

• Hospital bills
• Medical expenses
• Lost income or wages
• Damage to vehicle
• Towing costs
• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of companionship

The experienced attorneys at Tuley Law can help you determine what compensation you could receive based on the details of your accident.

Criminal Charges for Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Indiana law prohibits drivers involved in an accident from leaving the scene. A driver who leaves the scene of any accident in the state of Indiana can be charged with a Class B misdemeanor. There are different levels of punishment including the following:

• If bodily injury is sustained, the charge can be a Class A misdemeanor
• If serious bodily injury is sustained or the defendant has faced a similar charge within the last 5 years, the charge will be a Level 6 felony
• If a fatality occurs, the charge will be a Level 5 felony

An intoxicated driver leaving the scene of an accident resulting in serious injury or death will receive a Level 3 felony charge. It is important to remember that leaving the scene of a hit and run accident at any level is a very serious crime.

Do I Have a Hit and Run Lawsuit in Indiana?

Hit and run accidents can be complicated when it comes to finding the driver who fled the accident. If the driver is identified, your lawyer may begin investigating the traffic accident and pursuing the claim against the defendant. Based on the evidence you provide, your lawyer must prove that you suffered damages as a result of the collision at fault of the defendant.

If the hit and run driver is never identified, you may still be able to receive compensation for the accident. It is recommended you consult the personal injury attorneys at Tuley Law for more information specific to your case.

Statute of Limitations

The deadline to file a hit and run lawsuit in the state of Indiana is two years from the date of the accident.

Contact an Indiana Hit and Run Lawyer Today

If you are the injured victim of a hit and run accident in southwestern Indiana, get a medical examination immediately. Following any necessary medical treatment, arrange to meet with an experienced Evansville personal injury attorney at Tuley Law. The personal injury attorneys at Tuley Law can assist you throughout the legal process of receiving the compensation you deserve. Nothing is a greater priority than your health and well-being. If you or a loved one have been injured, contact Tuley today.

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