It is difficult to believe that someone would cause an accident and leave without taking responsibility or providing aid to injured victims, but it happens each day. According to Louisiana law, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident. We may not ever know why someone would leave the scene of an accident; however, some possible reasons why a person may commit a hit-and-run are:
- The driver was intoxicated at the time of the accident;
- The car was stolen;
- The driver did not have automobile insurance; or,
- The driver had an outstanding warrant.
Regardless of why a driver leaves the scene of an accident, you may still collect compensation for your losses even though the at-fault driver may never be identified. If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as part of your automobile insurance policy, your insurance company may be responsible for paying your medical expenses, repairing your vehicle, and reimbursing you for your lost wages.
What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage protects a driver who is the victim of a hit-and-run or who is in an accident with an uninsured driver. Under Louisiana law, uninsured motorist coverage is automatically included in your insurance policy; however, you can deny coverage. If you do not want UM coverage, you must sign a statement provided by your insurance company verifying that you voluntarily chose to opt out of UM coverage. UM coverage is relatively inexpensive, and you never know when you may need it; therefore, you should carry UM insurance in the highest amount you can afford, if possible.
How Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Help in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
In most hit-and-run cases, you are entitled to receive compensation for your damages under your UM coverage. Since the identity of the driver is unknown, your uninsured motorist coverage pays your damages. Even though your insurance company is paying your damages, do not assume that you will be treated fairly and that the insurance company will pay you a fair settlement. Your insurance company is like all insurance companies — the company is in it to make a profit; therefore, it does not have your best interest as its top priority.
Contact an Experienced Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney
You should not be responsible for paying the medical bills for injuries sustained in a hit-and-run accident. Someone should be responsible for repairing or replacing your vehicle. You also deserve to receive compensation for your lost wages, physical pain, and emotional suffering. Handling the legalities of a hit-and-run accident claim can be overwhelming as you are struggling to recover from injuries. Your priority should be your health and a full recovery.
The automobile accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Matt & Allen understand what you are going through and they want to help you recover the compensation you are entitled to receive. While you focus on getting well, allow us to protect your legal rights and work to ensure you receive a fair and just settlement for your injuries. Contact our office to schedule your free consultation and get answers to your questions about a Louisiana hit-and-run accident.
