Chicago Hit and Run Accident Lawyers
Drivers who leave the scene of an injury accident should be held accountable for the damage they cause. Unfortunately, hit-and-run drivers do not always get caught, and the victims and their families are left holding the bills. Victims of hit-and-run drivers do have legal options available to them. Most auto insurance policies cover victims of negligent hit-and-run drivers who are never located or identified. A Chicago car accident attorney can help hit-and-run victims understand their legal rights and the compensation that is available to them.
Illinois Hit-And-Run Laws
It is a class four felony to leave the scene of an injury accident without contacting the authorities. Illinois Vehicle Code Sec. 11-401 (a) states: "The driver of any vehicle involved in a motor vehicle accident resulting in personal injury to or death of any person shall immediately stop such vehicle at the scene of such accident, or as close thereto as possible and shall then forthwith return to, and in every event shall remain at the scene of the accident until the requirements of Section 11-403 have been fulfilled. Every such stop shall be made without obstructing traffic more than is necessary."
Responsibility of Drivers
Stopping and remaining at the scene of an accident is about taking responsibility. Drivers in Illinois are required under the law to stop, remain at the scene and exchange information with the other parties including driver's license, insurance and contacts. It is also the responsibility of the driver, if he or she is safely able to do so, to obtain assistance for the injured victim. Apart from being the letter of the law, it is the right thing to do ethically in terms of helping a fellow human being who is hurt and whose life is in danger.
Illinois Hit-And-Run Liability Issues
Hit-and runs are the reason why it is important to have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your auto insurance. While liability insurance is required under the law, it does not cover you. It covers the person you hit or injure. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is the part that compensates you for your injuries, damages and losses in a hit-and-run crash or in a case where the at-fault motorist is uninsured or underinsured.
Why Contacting an Experienced Injury Lawyer is Critical
It may seem easier to handle your insurance claim on your own. But the truth is that you are more likely to recover a larger and better settlement by working with an experienced Chicago car accident injury attorney. Although you may uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, the insurance company may try to delay payment on your claim or may deny payment altogether. It is also possible that the insurance company will offer you only a fraction of the actual value of your claim.
The skilled and knowledgeable auto accident lawyers of The Bradley Law Firm can help protect your rights and help ensure that you receive fair compensation for all your injuries, damages and losses. Just having a reputed Chicago traffic accident lawyer on your side may be sufficient for the insurance companies to take you seriously and give you the respect and consideration you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Chicago hit-and-run auto accident, please call The Bradley Law Firm to examine your options at no cost.