Every driver in Georgia who is involved in a traffic collision has a duty to stop their vehicle and remain at the scene of the crash unless there is a medical emergency. Unfortunately, that does not always happen. Hit and run crashes are far too common. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that around three quarters of a million hit and runs happen nationwide each year. Given the risk that you could be involved in this type of crash, it is crucial that you know the steps to take to protect your rights and your interests. Here, our Marietta car accident lawyer provides a guide to what to do after a hit and run accident case in Georgia.
Know the Law in Georgia: The Duty to Stop and Remain at the Scene of the Crash
All drivers involved in a crash in Marietta, Cobb County, or elsewhere in Georgia have a duty to stop their vehicle and remain at the scene of the collision unless there is a medical emergency. Indeed, state law imposes a clear duty on drivers involved in motor vehicle collisions to stop and remain at the scene. O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270 governs accidents involving injury or death. O.C.G.A. § 40-6-271 applies to crashes involving only property damage. In both contexts, a driver must immediately stop at or as close as possible to the scene without obstructing traffic more than necessary. The failure to remain at the scene is a crime. It could be a felony after a serious injury crash.
What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident in Marietta, Georgia
Step #1: Call the Police and Report the Crash
You should call 911 immediately after a hit and run collision in Marietta. Georgia law requires prompt reporting of crashes involving injury, death, or significant property damage. A responding officer will secure the scene, document visible damage, and prepare an official accident report. A police report is key evidence in a hit and run accident claim.
Step #2: Gather as Much Information as Possible
To the best of your ability, you should try to gather as much information as possible from the scene of the collision. Write down any details you remember about the fleeing vehicle, including color, make, partial license plate, or direction of travel. If there are any around, you may want to speak with witnesses and request their contact information.
Step #3: Seek Immediate Medical Attention for Any Injuries
Even if symptoms seem minor, obtain medical evaluation as soon as possible. Hit and run crashes often involve sudden impact that causes soft tissue injuries, concussions, or internal trauma. Prompt treatment protects your health and well-being. It also makes it possible for you to bring a car accident injury claim. You will need medical records in order to seek financial compensation for a hit and run accident in Georgia.
Step #4: Notify Your Own Insurance Company of the Hit and Run
Your best option for a claim, at least initially, may be through your own insurance company. Indeed, in Georgia, compensation for a hit and run crash typically arises through your uninsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM policy) unless and until the other driver can be identified. With that in mind, you must provide timely notice under the terms of your policy. The failure to do so can undermine your coverage. Indeed, UM/UIM policy almost always requires prompt notification of a crash. You should report the basic facts of the crash, but avoid recorded statements until you understand the full extent of your injuries.
Step #5: Consult With a Marietta Hit and Run Crash Attorney
Hit and run accident claims are notoriously complex. You may have a lot of questions about your rights, your options, and what comes next after a crash. Professional guidance and support can make a dramatic difference. Hit and run cases present unique legal and evidentiary challenges. Along with other things, a Marietta car accident attorney can investigate potential third-party liability, preserve surveillance evidence, and review your uninsured motorist coverage. With the right lawyer on your side, you will be in the best possible position to secure the maximum settlement or verdict. Let your lawyer handle the insurance company.
Hit and Run Accident Compensation in Marietta, GA
Were you hurt in a hit and run crash in Marietta? You have the right to seek compensation for the full scope of your damages, including for non-economic losses. Do not rely on any insurance company, even your own carrier, to look out for your best interests. Insurance adjusters are tasked with finding ways to resolve claims process less. You need an attorney who can help you explore every option for financial recovery. A top-rated Marietta car accident lawyer can help you fight for the maximum compensation, including for:
- Ambulance costs;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Other health care costs;
- Physical therapy;
- Loss of wages;
- Loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Long term disability;
- Reduced quality of life; and
- Wrongful death.
Why Trust Our Marietta, GA Hit and Run Crash Lawyer
A hit and run can cause serious injuries. It can also lead to an especially complex legal claims process. At The Persons Firm, LLC, we are a boutique personal injury law firm that has the knowledge, skills, and professional expertise to help injured victims secure the maximum hit and run accident compensation. Our case results tell the story best. Your initial consultation with our Marietta hit and run accident lawyer is free, confidential, and without additional obligations.
Contact Our Marietta Hit and Run Injury Attorney Today
At The Persons Firm, LLC, our Marietta hit and run accident attorney has the professional experience that you can trust. If you have any questions about a hit and run accident claim, we can help. Contact us right away to set up a free, no obligation initial case review. From our law office in Marietta, we handle hit and run accident cases throughout the broader region, including in 30060, 30061, 30062, 30063, 30064, 30065, and 30066.