Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can very quickly become a source of frustration. In addition to dealing with physical injuries and financial strain, trying to figure out how to seek compensation for your losses can be challenging if you don’t know who hit your car. Who pays for the damage in these situations?
The good news is that Idaho law gives you a path to seek compensation and justice for the losses resulting from a hit-and-run accident, even if you can’t identify the hit-and-run driver.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident Under Idaho Law?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver flees the scene of a car crash without stopping to provide their insurance information or offer assistance. Idaho car accident laws require drivers to remain at the scene after a collision. In cases involving injury, death, or property damage, they must also report the accident to the police. Failing to do so is a criminal offense and can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity of the incident and whether anyone was hurt or killed.
How Liability Works in Idaho Hit-and-Run Cases
Idaho follows a fault-based system for car accidents, meaning the at-fault driver is responsible for the resulting harm.
If the fleeing driver in a hit-and-run is eventually found, they may be held liable for a victim’s medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and other losses. Additionally, they may face criminal charges. A criminal conviction is not required for a car accident lawsuit, but it can help establish liability and support the victim’s personal injury claim.
What If the Hit-and-Run Driver Is Never Found?
Sometimes, hit-and-run drivers manage to evade identification by law enforcement and independent investigators. Fortunately, if this happens in your case, you may still have options. If you carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, it can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses and losses when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.
What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If another driver hit you and fled the crash scene, call 911 right away to report the collision and request medical help for any car accident injuries. Try to remember or record any details about the fleeing vehicle, such as its color, make and model, license plate, or direction of travel. Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Speak to any witnesses and get their contact information. Prompt reporting and documentation can help law enforcement attempt to locate the driver and strengthen your insurance claim.
How a Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Can Help
After a hit-and-run accident, you shouldn’t have to shift focus away from your medical treatment to try and track down the driver or pursue compensation for your losses. At Attorneys of Idaho, our experienced car accident lawyers can manage this process on your behalf. Our legal team can investigate the motor vehicle accident and pursue all available avenues for fair compensation, regardless of whether we can ultimately locate the hit-and-run driver. Whether the claims process entails negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to court, we’re here to fight for the justice and accountability you deserve.
Contact Attorneys of Idaho right away to schedule a free initial consultation.
