With almost 36 years of experience defending the rights of accident victims in the Valley of the Sun, Hastings & Hastings, Arizona’s Premier Discount Accident Law Firm, has successfully represented thousands of accident victims. At Hastings & Hastings, they understand that accident victims have experienced a major hardship. Accidents are shocking and disorienting events. Often, they result in injuries and major property damage. Hastings & Hastings has made it a mission to support accident victims with excellent legal representation, allowing victims to focus on the important issues of health and putting their lives back together. Accident victims deserve financial compensation for the hardships they have endured. When involved in a hit and run accident, securing this compensation can become more difficult. Hastings & Hastings offers advice for hit and run accidents.
A hit and run accident is defined by the Department of Motor Vehicles as, “any accident in which a driver intentionally leaves the scene without providing contact information.” Hastings & Hastings notes that the Department of Motor Vehicles places an emphasis on intentionality.
Hastings & Hastings notes that the number one priority for an individual who has been the victim of a hit and run should be to gather as much information as possible. The end goal is to be able to identify the at-fault driver in order to hold them accountable. First, victims should be concerned with their health and wellbeing. They should pull over to the side of the road and call the authorities. Next, they should write down as much as they can remember regarding the accident. They should attempt to recall any details they can about the vehicle that hit them, focusing on make, model, color, and license plate. Without these details, Hastings & Hastings notes, identifying the at-fault driver could be very difficult.
When initially speaking with law enforcement officials, victims should explain that the other driver involved in the accident drove off. This will allow law enforcement officials to begin pursuit promptly.
If the at-fault driver is never identified, drivers can file an uninsured motorist claim on their own policy, if they have that coverage. If the at-fault driver is identified, a claim can be made against the at-fault driver’s insurance.
“All accidents are frustrating. Hit and run accidents are doubly so. Hastings & Hastings proudly offers support and guidance do victims of hit and run accidents. With our experienced legal team, we can maximize your chance of securing a settlement,” said David Hastings, the founder of Hastings & Hastings.