Any individual harmed by the negligent or careless acts of another needs legal assistance and guidance in order to properly assert his or her rights and obtain compensation for his or her injuries. This task is complicated, however, when the injury occurs at the hands of a “hit-and-run” driver. A hit-and-run driver is one who strikes another motorist, a pedestrian, or even a stationary object and who then leaves the scene of the accident without leaving his or her contact information.

Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases

In any car crash case, one of the biggest challenges faced by the injury plaintiff is establishing that the defendant acted negligently and this negligence caused or contributed to the plaintiff’s injuries. In a hit-and-run case, the plaintiff has another hurdle to overcome – establishing the identity of the defendant. After all, if the plaintiff is not able to say who it is that caused his or her injuries and losses, there is no way for the plaintiff to obtain compensation for his or her injuries.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Crash

If you have been struck or injured by a hit-and-run driver, take immediate action to protect yourself and your rights:

If you are injured (or if you do not know if you are injured), summon emergency medical assistance and/or seek treatment from the nearest hospital emergency room. Nothing is more important than your health and wellbeing.
Call Law Enforcement.
As soon as you are able to, write down (or ask someone to write down for you) as much information about the hit-and-run accident as you remember. This may include a description of the vehicle that struck you, a description of the driver, and/or information about the direction of travel of the hit-and-run vehicle. This information should be given to your attorney and to local law enforcement. Any information you have may be helpful in establishing the identity of the hit-and-run driver.
Do not give up! Although the identity of the other driver can be critical in a liability case, if the other driver is never identified-you may be able to make a claim with your own Uninsured Motorist coverage.

Speak with a North Dakota and Minnesota Car Wreck Attorney Right Away

If you or a loved one have been hurt in a hit-and-run accident in North Dakota or Minnesota, speak with Timothy O’Keeffe, Tatum O’Brien or Sara Monson of O’Keeffe O’Brien Lyson Attorneys as soon as possible. Our firm is knowledgeable, helpful, and resourceful in situations such as hit-and-run accidents, and we can assist you in protecting your rights and obtaining compensation for your injuries. Reach out to us using our online contact form, or call 701-235-8000 or 877-235-8002 today.

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