There are numerous reasons why someone flees the scene of an accident. An invalid license, outstanding warrant, or stolen vehicle are a few examples of why people run.
A hit-and-run motorcycle accident can not only destroy your bike — it can ruin your life. The damages you suffer can impact your finances and overall health, end your career, and more.
If you suffered severe injuries due to a hit-and-run driver, you can protect your rights. The following tips serve as a guide. For further assistance with your claim or lawsuit, you may want to contact a South Carolina motorcycle accident attorney.
A motorcycle accident of any cause is a traumatic experience. A hit-and-run motorcycle accident is especially troubling due to the unknown other driver.
Calling 911 is always a vital step following a crash. Emergency responders can immediately tend to your injuries while police officers search for evidence and the responsible driver.
Remaining calm may seem easier said than done. However, it is crucial following a hit-and-run motorcycle accident. If possible, take the following steps to preserve evidence and your memory of what occurred:
Hit-and-run motorcycle accident victims should never let anger overtake their emotions. Spiked adrenaline following a crash may prompt some victims to pursue the responsible party. This is never a good idea and should be left to law enforcement.
When the responsible party flees the scene of an accident, victims feel abandoned and scared. What victims may not realize is that they still have legal rights and options following a hit-and-run motorcycle accident.
If the police investigation identifies the guilty driver, he or she may be criminally charged for fleeing the scene. However, regardless of whether there is a conviction, victims of motorcycle hit-and-run accidents may still pursue a personal injury claim.
If the driver is not located, accident victims must rely on their insurance policies to cover their damages. A smooth process can often lead to roadblocks and delays as insurance companies protect their best interests.
A hit-and-run motorcycle case is challenging but not hopeless. A free consultation with a skilled attorney can ease your mind as you learn more about your legal options.
If law enforcement can identify who caused your accident, they must determine where the person is. This process is rarely straightforward and sometimes results in no identification or capture of the party liable for your harm.
Challenges law enforcement officers face in identifying and locating parties to hit-and-run motorcycle accidents are:
Witness memories may fade, and evidence may become lost. The sooner law enforcement arrests someone for fleeing the scene of your hit-and-run accident, the better for your civil case.
If law enforcement cannot identify and locate the driver, you may need to depend on your insurance policy to cover your accident damages. This process is not always easy due to specific policy terms and conditions.
There are multiple challenges associated with hit-and-run cases. If your motorcycle ride turned tragic due to a hit-and-run driver, you may want to contact a South Carolina motorcycle accident lawyer today to discuss your case.
Motorcycle accidents generally result in severe injuries. A motorcyclist can face months of recovery, while some must deal with life-altering injuries.
Hit-and-run accident victims also deal with emotions such as anger, frustration, and anxiety. Not knowing who hit them and if the person will be found is worrisome. This worry is compounded by massive medical bills and an inability to return to work.
Hit-and-run motorcycle accident victims must focus on their health and recovery. Handing their case to an attorney frees victims from the additional stress of managing their case alone. A South Carolina personal injury attorney can help by managing the details of your personal injury claim. An attorney can communicate with law enforcement regarding the status of your case and determine the best legal route for possible compensation.
Your attorney will negotiate with insurance companies and proceed to trial if necessary. Protecting your rights is paramount following a hit-and-run motorcycle accident. Scheduling a free consultation soon after your accident is best for determining your next step.
Anyone involved in a motor vehicle accident must remain at the scene—it is not just a responsibility — it is South Carolina law.
Hit-and-run motorcycle accident victims deserve justice. They also deserve compensation for their unfair and unexpected damages. At Whalen Montalvo Attorneys at Law, we aggressively represent clients who suffered due to the reckless actions of others. In cases where the liable party is never found, we help clients hold their insurance companies accountable for policies purchased and premiums paid.
If you or a close loved one suffered severe injuries in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident, let James Whalen or Eric Montalvo help you pursue a fair settlement. Each attorney has helped clients like you who face an uncertain future. Whalen Montalvo Attorneys at Law put their experience to work for you when you need it most.
Schedule your free consultation by contacting our firm. Call (864) 770-7710 today.
I grew up right here in Greenville, South Carolina. Following highschool, I attended Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee, where I was an NCAA Scholar-Athlete for the Rhodes Lynx soccer program.
I completed my law degree at University of South Carolina School of Law, where I was on the mock trial team and an editor for the Journal of Law and Education. Following graduation, I served as a judicial law clerk for Senior Judge Robert H. Hodges, Jr. on the Court of Federal Claims in Washington, D.C. My experience in D.C. trial courts solidified my desire to become a trial lawyer.
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