Orlando, FL Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers
Skilled Attorneys Representing Victims Injured by Hit-and-Run Drivers in Orlando
Being involved in a car accident is always upsetting, but when the driver who caused the crash flees the scene, this can add an additional layer of stress, confusion, and frustration. Hit-and-run accidents are not uncommon in Orlando, where congested traffic, tourist activity, and fast-moving highways can lead to serious collisions. For victims of these crashes, recovering compensation may be more difficult, but it is not impossible.
The Doan Law Firm provides dedicated legal help for people who have been injured in hit-and-run accidents, helping them determine the best options for receiving the financial compensation they need. Whether filing insurance claims or determining what other legal avenues may be available, we will provide guidance and representation to help clients overcome the challenges of these cases and focus on healing from their injuries.
The Challenges Victims May Face After a Hit-and-Run
Hit-and-run accidents are likely to involve a variety of unique legal and practical issues. In these situations, victims will need to understand what steps they can take to obtain compensation that will address their financial losses and other damages. Some of the difficulties that arise in hit-and-run cases include:
- Identifying the Driver: Law enforcement investigations may not always be successful in locating a driver who left the scene of the accident.
- Unpaid Medical Bills: Victims may struggle to cover the costs of emergency room visits, follow-up care, and rehabilitation.
- Vehicle Repair Costs: Property damage can be extensive, particularly in high-speed or multi-vehicle accidents.
- Lost Wages: Time off work due to injury can place additional financial strain on a person who is already dealing with the costs of medical care.
- Emotional Distress: The trauma of being left at the scene of an accident without assistance can leave lasting emotional scars, including anxiety and fear of driving.
Insurance Coverage for Hit-and-Run Accidents in Florida
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, meaning that all drivers must carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. PIP provides compensation for medical expenses up to the policy limits, regardless of who caused the crash. While this can provide an important safety net, it is often not enough to cover the full extent of a victim's injuries and losses.
To address this gap, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may apply in hit-and-run scenarios. A hit-and-run driver will usually be treated as an uninsured motorist. If a victim has UM coverage as part of their auto insurance policy, they may receive compensation for:
- Medical expenses exceeding PIP benefits
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term disability or disfigurement
- Property damage
UM coverage is not mandatory in Florida, but those who include it in their policies will have an additional source of compensation. Our attorneys can review a policy to clarify whether uninsured motorist coverage will apply after a hit-and-run accident.
Legal Options for Recovering Compensation After a Hit-and-Run Accident
When a hit-and-run driver cannot be located, victims may still have several options to recover compensation. These include:
- Filing a UM Insurance Claim: A victim can file an uninsured motorist claim with their own insurance provider. In these cases, they will usually need to prove that the hit-and-run driver caused the accident and that the damages they suffered were a direct result of the collision. Our attorneys can assist with gathering evidence, submitting documentation, and negotiating with the insurance company to ensure that a victim will receive a fair settlement.
- Third-Party Liability: In some cases, another party may share responsibility for the accident. For example, a bar or restaurant may be liable under Florida's dram shop laws if it served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated driver who then caused the crash. Similarly, a vehicle manufacturer or municipality may be liable if a defective part or a road hazard contributed to the incident.
- Civil Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Driver: If law enforcement or our attorneys are able to identify the hit-and-run driver, we can pursue a personal injury lawsuit against them to recover damages, including those that are not covered by insurance.
How The Doan Law Firm Helps Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Orlando
Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run crash can be overwhelming. Insurance companies try to avoid paying full compensation, or they may question the validity of a claim. The Doan Law Firm provides comprehensive legal support to help clients obtain compensation through every available channel. Our services include:
- Investigating the Crash: We work with accident reconstruction experts, law enforcement, and private investigators to uncover evidence and identify the hit-and-run driver if possible.
- Analyzing Insurance Policies: We will conduct a thorough review of insurance coverage to determine the availability of PIP, UM/UIM, or other benefits.
- Managing Claims: Our team will handle all communications with insurance companies and ensure that all paperwork is prepared and submitted correctly.
- Maximizing Compensation: We can help ensure that compensation will address all applicable damages, including medical costs, lost wages, emotional distress, and long-term care needs. We will negotiate settlements or take legal action, working to ensure that a victim will receive the maximum amount of compensation available.
Contact Our Orlando, FL Hit-and-Run Accident Attorneys
After being injured in a hit-and-run crash, you deserve answers, and you can benefit from legal support. The Doan Law Firm will help you explore your legal options, and we will work to secure compensation from every available source. Contact our Orlando office today by calling 407-289-0000 to arrange your free consultation.