Do I Need a Lawyer After a Hit and Run Accident in Weatherford?
Hit and run accidents can leave you feeling helpless. Instead of exchanging information and filing an insurance claim, you’re suddenly left with the stress of figuring out who will pay for your injuries and vehicle damage while the at-fault driver speeds off. For many victims in Weatherford, Texas, one big question arises: Do I need to hire a lawyer?
In many cases, the answer is yes. Hit and run car accidents can be more complicated than regular crashes, especially when tracking down the person responsible. Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the at-fault driver (and their insurance company) is normally responsible for compensating victims. But when that driver disappears, you may have no one to file a claim against unless you take certain steps.
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Identifying the At-Fault Party
One of the first hurdles in any hit and run case is figuring out who fled the scene. Without knowing their identity, it’s tough to hold them accountable for your medical bills, car repairs, and other expenses. The police will do their best to investigate, but they typically have limited resources and a large caseload.
An attorney can help by dedicating more time and focus to your situation, such as by:
- Reviewing any available surveillance or dashcam footage
- Interviewing witnesses who might’ve seen the fleeing driver
- Checking local body shops for suspicious repairs matching the description of the car
Even if these steps don’t immediately lead you to the driver, they can provide valuable evidence for the insurance claim or lawsuit if the driver is later found.
Using Your Own Insurance
If the runaway driver isn’t located, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re out of options. Many Texans carry uninsured/underinsured (UM/UIM) motorist coverage, which can pay for costs when the at-fault driver doesn’t have enough (or any) insurance. A hit and run driver often fits the “uninsured motorist” definition because you can’t file a claim against their insurance if you don’t know who they are.
However, insurance companies don’t just write checks without reviewing your file carefully. They might argue that your injuries aren’t as bad as you claim or that part of the blame lies with you. Having an attorney on your side can help you negotiate more effectively and ensure your own insurer treats you fairly.
Proving Liability and Damages
Even if the hit and run driver is identified, you still need solid evidence to prove they caused the crash.
That might include:
- Photos of the accident scene
- Police reports that note damage patterns
- Eyewitness statements describing how the crash occurred
- Expert opinions, such as accident reconstruction professionals
If you don’t have enough evidence, the driver or their insurer could deny fault. A lawyer can gather what you need to show that the fleeing driver’s negligence led to your injuries. They can also help you prove the extent of your economic and non-economic damages.
Navigating Settlement Negotiations
Once you file a claim against the at-fault driver or use your own UM/UIM coverage, you’ll probably enter into settlement negotiations. Insurance adjusters may start with a low offer, hoping you’ll agree before you realize the full extent of your injuries. Accepting an early settlement can leave you short-changed, especially if you later discover you need more treatment than expected.
A lawyer will know how to counter these tactics. They can evaluate what a fair settlement looks like based on the strength of your evidence, the costs of your care, and other important details. If negotiations break down, they can also file a lawsuit on your behalf and continue pushing for what you deserve in court.
When Going to Court Becomes Necessary
Not all hit and run cases go to trial, but sometimes it’s the only way to get reasonable compensation. If the driver who hit you is caught and refuses to settle, or if your own insurer disputes your UM/UIM claim, you may need a judge or jury to decide your case. Trials can be time-consuming and expensive, but if your case is strong, an experienced attorney can use that leverage to demand a better offer.
Going to court can also be valuable for revealing hidden information. For instance, your attorney might use pretrial discovery to request documents, question the defendant under oath, or gather other evidence that supports your case. Even the possibility of a trial can encourage the opposing side to negotiate in good faith rather than gamble on an unfavorable court ruling.
Contact a Weatherford Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Today
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a hit and run accident in Weatherford, Texas, you don’t have to handle everything alone. From investigating the scene and working with the police to negotiating with insurers or even heading to court, an experienced lawyer can be your strongest ally. They’ll fight to protect your rights, secure the compensation you need, and help you move forward.
Contact a Weatherford car accident attorney for a free consultation today to learn about your legal options.
