Indianapolis Hit-And-Run Injury Lawyers
Last updated on January 27, 2025
The Indiana car accident attorneys at Parr Richey Frandsen Patterson Kruse LLP are leaders in personal injury law. Founded in 1899, our firm has helped countless auto accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. Located in Indianapolis and Lebanon, we offer stellar representation and dedicated service to clients throughout Indiana.
Hit-And-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents can leave the victims and their families with burdensome costs. These may include:
- Repair bills
- Property loss
- Rental vehicle
- Replacement car
- Hospital expenses
- Medical treatment
- Emergency operations
- Lost wages or earnings
- Pain, suffering and anguish
- Wrongful death damages
- Future rehabilitation costs
Insurance companies are responsible for covering some of these costs, but policy coverage varies. As a result, injured victims are rarely fully compensated for their loss. Innocent parties must often bear most or all of the out-of-pocket expenses arising from the accident.
Insurance And Hit-And-Runs
Indiana law requires a minimum policy limit providing $25,000 in liability per person and $50,000 per accident. Still, many Indiana motorists remain uninsured. Due to their lack of coverage, these drivers may try to avoid liability by fleeing the accident scene and failing to report the accident. Moreover, insurance companies often try to avoid paying the policy’s maximum limit, preferring to minimize liability rather than lose money. Sadly, the “minimum” required under the law is actually the maximum amount insurers are willing to pay for an accident. When the negligent driver is unknown or uninsured, insurance companies may try to pay nothing.
Unknown, Uninsured And Underinsured Motorists
Hit-and-run accidents present a problem for insured drivers because the perpetrator is unknown. Without an identifiable party, there is no cost-sharing for the damage. The same is true of uninsured motorists. The injured victim is personally liable for their own losses, regardless of fault. When the at-fault driver has a smaller policy limit than the injured party, the maximum compensation possible is the smaller amount. After expenses reach this threshold, the at-fault driver is liable for the rest. But no judgment or settlement is practical against an insolvent driver. As such, innocent motorists remain personally responsible for their injuries and damage.
Uninsured And Underinsured Motorist Benefits
Under Indiana law, insurance companies must offer a policy that covers hit-and-run collisions and other accidents where the at-fault driver is unknown, a uninsured motorist or an underinsured motorist. Newer policies require holders to formally waive these benefits in writing. However, older policies still do not cover hit-and-run liability. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UIM) policies allow injured drivers to file a claim with their own company seeking compensation for their injuries and damage. Still, most drivers must supplement their policies to add this coverage. UIM benefits cover policyholders and relevant family members injured in hit-and-run collisions.
Hit-And-Run Q&A
Here are some answers to questions clients often ask us during initial consultation:
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
In Indiana, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. Filing within this timeframe is essential to ensure your case moves forward. It’s best to notify your insurance company as soon as possible for insurance claims. Your policy may have specific deadlines for filing claims, so reviewing your policy or contacting your insurer for details is a good idea.
How do I strengthen my hit-and-run claim?
Strengthening a hit-and-run claim involves several key steps to ensure you have the best chance of receiving compensation. Here are some crucial actions to take:
- Report the incident immediately: Contact the police right away to file an official report. This creates an official record of the incident, which is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Gather evidence: Collect as much information as possible at the scene. This includes details about the fleeing vehicle (make, model, color, license plate number), photos of the scene and damages, and contact information from any witnesses.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, getting a medical evaluation is important. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Medical records will also link your injuries to the accident, which is vital for your claim.
- Notify your insurance company: Inform your insurer about the hit-and-run as soon as possible. Review your policy to understand your coverage, such as uninsured motorist coverage, which can be particularly helpful in these situations.
- Consult an injury lawyer: An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process, help gather additional evidence and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. They can also assist in identifying the hit-and-run driver if possible.
What are the legal consequences for a hit-and-run driver?
Fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal and can result in severe penalties, including fines, loss of driver’s license and even jail time. If you identify the hit-and-run driver, they can be liable for the damages and injuries caused.
Contact Us For Maximizing Insurance Awards
The Indianapolis personal injury lawyers at Parr Richey Frandsen Patterson Kruse LLP can help those injured in a hit-and-run accident. We have over 75 years of collective legal experience handling UIM benefits and insurance claims for hit-and-run victims. Do not let insurance adjusters push you into accepting an unsatisfactory offer or sign a waiver without legal counsel. We can help you maximize your award and seek full compensation for your harm. Call 317-505-1342 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.