Pensacola Hit-and-Run Accident Attorneys

Getting into a car accident can be traumatic enough alone, but it can be even more so when the driver who hit you flees the scene without stopping. You may be left injured, overwhelmed, and wondering what you’re supposed to do next. Fortunately, if you’ve suffered one of these crashes, our Pensacola hit-and-run accident attorneys at Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana, PC can help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

The right legal advocate can make all the difference in your recovery after experiencing a hit-and-run crash. Call Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana, PC today at (251) 444-7000 to discuss your case.

The Complexities of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Florida

Hit-and-Runs Can Be Tough to Solve

Car accidents are already stressful, but when a driver who causes one disappears, it can create some unique problems. You might not know who to hold responsible, and as your medical costs begin to pile up, you may not be able to work while you’re healing. Insurance companies don’t always make things easy, so getting fair compensation could feel like an uphill battle.

You do have options, though. Florida law offers ways for victims of hit-and-run accidents to recover compensation, even if the driver is never found. It all starts with the actions you take immediately after the crash.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run in Pensacola

Taking the right steps after a hit-and-run accident can help you protect yourself legally as well as your health. Generally, you’ll want to make sure that you do the following:

• Call 911: The accident report may be a vital piece of evidence later, and you should get checked for injuries even if you feel fine.
• Gather Evidence: If you’re able, take pictures, write down notes about the vehicle that hit you, and get contact information from any witnesses.
• Get Medical Attention: By seeing a doctor, you create a record of your trauma that can help with your case.
• Talk to an Attorney: A lawyer can help you understand the options available to you and handle the legal side of things while you take the time to heal.

Emotions can run high after such an accident, but staying as calm and focused as you can will help you make clearer decisions.

How Can You Recover Compensation After a Hit-and-Run?

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Sadly, some hit-and-run drivers get away and are never found. Luckily, if you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on your car insurance, it may offer compensation for hit-and-run cases. Florida law treats hit-and-run drivers like uninsured motorists, so if you have this coverage, you could make a claim under your own policy. We can determine whether you are eligible to make this claim.

Other Avenues

If there happen to be security cameras or witnesses who are able to identify the driver, you can file a claim against them directly. In other cases, a completely different party, such as a vehicle manufacturer or a business, could also have played a part in the crash. Our attorneys look at every angle of your case to find you the best path forward.

Even if the driver isn’t caught, you may still be eligible for compensation. We can help you explore every option.

Why Choose Us?

At Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana, PC, we know how frustrating a hit-and-run accident can be. That’s why we take an aggressive approach when fighting for our clients. Insurance companies don’t always play fair, but we know how to push back effectively. We’re committed to pursuing the results you need, whether that involves negotiating for a fair settlement or taking your case to court.

We also believe in clear and honest communication. We’ll keep you informed on what’s happening with your case, and you are always welcome to ask us questions and let us know of any concerns you have.

What Compensation Can We Help You Recover?

No two cases are the same, but victims of hit-and-runs are generally entitled to collect compensation for:

• Medical expenses for both current and future treatment
• Lost wages, if you’re out of work due to the accident
• Diminished earning capacity, if you can’t go back to work in the same capacity or even at all
• Pain and suffering, whether physical or emotional
• Property damage.

If the police manage to find the driver, we can help you file a personal injury lawsuit against them directly and seek financial compensation for any losses you’ve suffered in the accident. Depending on the circumstances, the driver might even face criminal charges.

FAQs

Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims with many questions. Here are some of the questions our attorneys most often receive.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the day of the accident. However, your hit-and-run crash may involve more specific deadlines, so it’s best to act quickly.

Will my insurance rates go up if I file a claim?

Some insurance companies will increase your rates, but it depends on your policy and the circumstances. We can look over your policy and help you understand the implications.

What if the driver was in a stolen vehicle?

If the driver was driving a stolen car, the owner’s insurance likely won’t cover the accident. However, you can still file for compensation under your UM coverage or through a lawsuit if the driver is found.

Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule, so you can recover compensation as long as you were no more than 50% at fault. Your payout might be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you’ll still have a valid claim.

If you have any other questions about your case, we can help. Every situation is different, and we’re happy to discuss your options in a free consultation.

Contact Our Pensacola Hit-and-Run Accident Attorneys Today

At Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana, PC, our skilled team understands the stress you may be under after experiencing a hit-and-run. Whether the driver is found or not, you have options, and we can guide you through the process, handle insurance battles, and work to get you the financial recovery you need to move forward.

Let us provide you with the legal help you deserve. Call Caldwell Wenzel & Asthana, PC at (251) 444-7000 to set up a consultation today.