If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in an accident, it is important that you begin looking out for your best interests.

Hit-and-run accidents on the rise

Hit-and-run accidents can have significant and devastating consequences for victims. According to research done by AAA, hit-and-run accidents are at an all-time high. In fact, it is reported that there is a hit-and-run accident in the United States every minute. In addition, hit-and-run accidents are resulting in a greater number of fatalities. During 2016, there were 2,000 hit-and-run deaths throughout the country and 65 of those occurred in Illinois. Many victims are pedestrians and bicyclists.

The research conducted by AAA was unclear as to why more drivers are failing to stop following an accident. Drivers should keep in mind that leaving the scene of a car accident that resulted in injury or death is a felony charge which could result in prison time. Keeping roadways and streets safe is a combination of many factors, including holding negligent drivers responsible for their actions when possible, which is how a personal injury claim for damages can help.

When the negligent driver cannot be identified or located, it is important for victims of hit-and-run accidents to understand that options may still be available to help with the physical, financial and emotional damages they have suffered. Depending on the circumstances, victims of hit-and-run accidents and their families may have options available through their uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance coverage to help with the harm they have suffered.

Because of the serious impact a hit-and-run accident can have on victims, it is important to be familiar with the legal help and resources that may be available to protect victims. Options following a hit-and-run accident can be complex so it is useful to thoroughly understand what they are and how the process works.

Source: abc7chicago.com, “Hit-and-run deaths at an all-time high, AAA says,” Sarah Schulte, April 26, 2018

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