When you’re involved in a car accident, the responsible driver’s presence is critical for exchanging information and addressing any immediate concerns. But what happens when that driver flees the scene?
Hit-and-run accidents leave victims grappling with uncertainty, stress, and often significant financial and physical harm.
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we understand how devastating these situations can be. Our Richmond car accident lawyer is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case, ensuring you’re not left bearing the burden alone.
What Is Considered a Hit-and-Run in Virginia?
In Virginia, leaving the scene of an accident without providing contact information or rendering aid is classified as a hit-and-run, regardless of the severity of the collision. According to Virginia Code § 46.2-894, drivers involved in accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage are legally required to stop as close to the scene as possible and provide their name, address, driver’s license number, and vehicle registration.
Failing to do so can lead to severe criminal penalties, including:
- A Class 5 felony if the accident involves injury or death.
- A Class 1 misdemeanor if only property damage occurs.
Despite these penalties, hit-and-run incidents remain a significant problem in Richmond and across Virginia, leaving victims struggling to recover both physically and financially.
Hit-and-Run Accident Statistics in Virginia
According to recent data from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, over 4,000 hit-and-run accidents occur statewide annually. These incidents result in hundreds of injuries and several fatalities each year.
The city of Richmond sees its fair share of these cases, often involving serious consequences for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users.
Why Hit-and-Run Accidents Are So Devastating
When the at-fault driver flees the scene, victims are left in a precarious position. Without the driver’s information, pursuing compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and other expenses becomes more challenging.
This is where our Richmond auto accident lawyer steps in. We work tirelessly to explore all possible avenues for recovery, even when the responsible party is unknown.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Richmond
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, taking immediate steps can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation.
Here’s what we recommend:
- Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health is the top priority. If possible, move to a safe location and call 911 for medical assistance. - Contact Law Enforcement
Report the accident to the police as soon as possible. Law enforcement will document the incident, which is crucial for your claim. - Gather Evidence
If you’re able, take photos of the scene, including damage to your vehicle, debris, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Look for witnesses who might have seen the accident or noted details about the fleeing vehicle. - Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurer about the accident promptly. Virginia law requires drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage, which may provide compensation in hit-and-run cases. - Contact Our Richmond Car Collision Lawyer
Contact us for a consultation. We’ll review your case, help you understand your legal options, and take immediate steps to protect your interests.
How We Investigate Hit-and-Run Cases
At The Johnson Injury Firm, we take a meticulous approach to investigating hit-and-run accidents. Our team uses various resources and techniques to identify the responsible party and build a compelling case. These include:
- Reviewing Traffic Camera Footage
Many intersections in Richmond are equipped with surveillance cameras that may capture evidence of the fleeing vehicle. - Interviewing Witnesses
Eyewitness accounts can provide critical details about the accident, such as the vehicle’s make, model, color, or license plate number. - Collaborating with Law Enforcement
We work closely with local authorities to track down the at-fault driver, leveraging police reports and ongoing investigations. - Analyzing Physical Evidence
Scratches, paint transfers, or other damage to your vehicle can sometimes be traced back to the responsible party.
Even if the driver is never identified, our Richmond car accident attorney will explore every possible source of compensation to ensure you’re not left financially stranded.
Understanding Your Compensation Options
Virginia’s uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is a lifeline for hit-and-run victims. This mandatory insurance provision allows you to seek compensation from your own policy when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.
Compensation under UM coverage can include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Our Richmond hit-and-run car accident lawyer will help you navigate the claims process, ensuring your insurer doesn’t undervalue or deny your claim. If disputes arise, we’re prepared to negotiate aggressively or take the matter to court.
Why Choose The Johnson Injury Firm?
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident, you need an experienced team on your side. Here’s why clients across Richmond trust us:
- Local Experience
As a Richmond-based law firm, we understand the unique challenges and resources available in our community. - Proven Results
Our team has secured substantial settlements and verdicts for hit-and-run victims, earning a reputation as a top-rated auto accident attorney in the area. - Client-Centered Approach
We prioritize your needs, keeping you informed throughout the process and tailoring our strategy to your specific circumstances. - No Upfront Costs
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.
The Time to Act Is Now
Virginia’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file a claim within this timeframe could bar you from recovering compensation. Additionally, evidence can disappear, and memories can fade, so it’s crucial to act quickly.
Let Us Fight for the Justice You Deserve
A hit-and-run accident can upend your life in an instant, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At The Johnson Injury Firm, our Richmond hit-and-run car accident lawyer is committed to helping you rebuild and recover. From investigating the incident to pursuing maximum compensation, we’re with you every step of the way.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Together, we’ll work to hold the responsible party accountable and secure the justice you deserve.
