If you, or a loved one, were injured in a West Virginia hit and run accident you may be confused and frustrated. How do you start to recover when the person responsible is gone? The good news is that there are steps you can take with an accident attorney to start your recovery.
I’ve Just Been in a Hit and Run! What Next?
If you have been the victim of a hit and run accident, there are precautions you can take to ensure your safety.
- Stay calm and assess any injuries: Check yourself and any others on the scene for injuries and call 911 if anyone needs medical attention.
- Call the police: It’s important to call law enforcement and report the accident, especially if the other driver has fled the scene. Provide as much information as you can about the other vehicle including things like:
- Make
- Model
- Color of the car
- Any unique features (i.e. cracks in the windshield, broken lights, dents)
- License plate number
- Gather evidence: If you can do so safely, take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
- Contact your insurance company: Let your insurance company know about the accident. Provide them with any information you have.
- Contact an experienced hit and run accident lawyer: A hit and run accident can be complicated. You may need an accident attorney to help navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
- Follow up on medical care: Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the accident, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. This will help to rule out any underlying injuries. That’s because many injuries may not present themselves immediately.
Being involved in a West Virginia hit and run accident takes a significant toll, both physically and emotionally. Having a strong, experienced legal partner can help you in your fight for recovery.
A Driver’s Responsibility
In 2009, West Virginia passed a law that says any driver involved in an accident that results in “injury to or death of any person” must, to the best of their abilities:
- Stay at the scene of the accident
- Provide help to the best of their ability
What are the Accident Laws in West Virginia?
Under West Virginia law, drivers involved in an accident are required to stop and exchange information, regardless of who was at fault. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges and penalties.
A West Virginia hit and run accident is defined as a crash in which a driver flees the scene. They do this before providing their name, address, and registration number, or getting help for anyone who is injured.
The hit and run penalty will depend on the severity of the accident.
- Leaving the scene of an accident in West Virginia, even if it only involves property damage, is a misdemeanor offense. Drivers may be given fines and face possible jail time.
- Leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death is a felony offense. These drivers may face significant fines, imprisonment, and the suspension of their driver’s license.
If you are involved in a West Virginia hit and run, an experienced accident attorney can also help you understand your legal rights. They can also review your options for seeking compensation for your injuries and damages.
Your Hit and Run Accident Lawyer
If you have been in a hit and run accident, you may feel overwhelmed and lost. However, as a victim, you have the right to seek compensation. And you can start that process with an accident attorney who is experienced with West Virginia’s traffic and personal injury laws.
Spivak & Sakellariou has years of experience in helping hit and run accident victims overcome their stress, frustration, and a sense of hopelessness. We’re here to guide you through it as we fight for you to receive appropriate compensation. Start the recovery from your West Virginia hit and run and schedule a free consultation today.
