Hit and Run Accident Lawyer in Seattle

Being involved in a hit and run can be jarring. When you’re left to pick up the pieces, a hit and run accident lawyer in Seattle can help you get the justice you deserve.

At Puget Law Group, we have a combined 150 years of experience representing injury victims. We use that experience to fight on your behalf and secure the highest possible payout for your suffering.

If you are the victim of a hit and run, a Seattle car accident lawyer is standing by, ready to get to work for you.

How Do I Seek Damages After a Hit and Run Accident in Seattle?

After being involved in a hit and run accident, you could be entitled to compensation if the perpetrator is caught. Common damages that you could be reimbursed for may include:

• Medical expenses relating to the accident
• Lost wages
• Loss of future income
• Pain and suffering damages
• Mental anguish
• Potential punitive damages

If you have been injured or had your property damaged, a Seattle personal injury lawyer can assess your case and help you to recover everything that you are entitled to. Don’t wait, as the Washington statute of limitations only allows three years to file a claim (RCW 4.16.080)

Who is Financially Liable in a Hit and Run Accident?

Hit and run cases are unique in that they involve both civil and criminal factors. If the defendant is caught after fleeing the scene, they could be facing felony charges if the accident caused injury or death (RCW 46.52.020). If a loved one was killed in a hit and run, a Seattle wrongful death lawyer can help your family pursue justice.

If the driver is identified, their insurance becomes financially liable for the damages incurred. If the driver lacks insurance, your uninsured motorist coverage would kick in, and your insurer would assume the financial responsibility. If you have personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, that may help cover immediate medical costs.

If the driver is unable to be identified, this would be another situation in which your own uninsured motorist coverage would come into play, along with your collision coverage. Additionally, your health insurance may cover some medical costs that are not covered by your auto insurance policy.

Common Injuries That Can Occur After a Hit and Run

Injuries sustained during a hit and run accident can be life-altering, so it is essential to have an experienced Seattle hit and run accident lawyer on your team. This is in addition to seeking prompt medical care. Injuries commonly associated with hit and run accidents may include:

• Whiplash
• Soft tissue injuries
• Burns
• Lacerations
• Concussions
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord damage
• Broken bones
• Crush injuries
• Internal bleeding
• Psychological trauma

Even if your injuries seem minor, it is pivotal to seek prompt medical care. Some injuries do not show immediately, especially when shock and adrenaline are involved. Additionally, seeking care quickly indicates that your injuries are severe and helps link them to the accident.

Quick Action Matters After a Hit and Run

Memories fade, evidence disappears, and witnesses become increasingly difficult to contact – these all contribute to why it is so essential that you take swift action after a hit and run accident. Some actions you can take to help protect your rights may include:

• Call 911 and report the fleeing driver
• Document the scene
• Take pictures and videos of anything that you see
• Document all injuries with photos or video, along with either writing details or recording voice memos
• Look for witnesses
• Note vehicle details and any description of the driver that you may have seen
• Check for nearby cameras
• Seek prompt medical attention
• Contact a hit and run accident attorney in Seattle

These steps can help build your case. In hit and run cases, there is often a lack of evidence because there is no information about the driver. This way, it shows that you have been diligent and can help strengthen your case.

How a Seattle Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Can Help Build Your Case

Being involved in a hit and run is likely a new experience for you, but it isn’t for our team of lawyers at Puget Law Group. As your localSeattle hit and run accident attorney, we know how to build your case, fight the insurance company, and win.

Investigating the Crash

A skilled attorney has a team that encompasses more than just legal professionals. They have accident reconstructionists, medical experts, private investigators, and more, all working to understand what happened fully. Unbiased third parties such as these can be paramount in building your case.

Negotiating With Insurers

It is the job of the insurance adjuster to aim to pay as little as possible for your claim. Your attorney knows how to deal with insurance companies and will handle both your insurer and the defendants, advocating on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement offer.

Maximizing Compensation

Sometimes, insurance companies will not budge. When this happens, it is time to take the case before a judge. Your lawyer can present the evidence, explain how you have been affected by this accident, and fight to get you every penny that you are entitled to.

Proper representation is so essential when it comes to receiving fair compensation for your hit and run case. Having legal counsel will help you to avoid self-incrimination, along with ensuring all critical evidence is used to your advantage.

Puget Law Group is Here to Fight for You

At Puget Law Group, we are dedicated and passionate about fighting for you. You deserve an attorney who will fight for you like family, and as the largest criminal and injury firm in the PNW, we are here to do just that.

You deserve time to recover. Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation to get started today.