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A hit and run accident can leave you injured, confused, and stuck dealing with a variety of unexpected bills. A Belmont car accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue justice.
If the driver who hit you fled, you still have legal recourse. A Belmont hit and run accident lawyer from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC can work to identify the individual and secure fair compensation for your losses.
The Role of a Belmont Hit and Run Accident Attorney
Hit and run cases require a different approach than standard car accident claims. A Belmont personal injury lawyer can step in and help by:
- Investigating the accident and gathering available evidence
- Working with law enforcement and reviewing police reports
- Identifying potential insurance coverage, including UM policies
- Handling communication with insurance companies
- Filing a lawsuit (if necessary)
Can You Recover Compensation If the Driver Is Never Found?
North Carolina requires drivers to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Even if the driver who hit you is never located, you may be able to use this coverage to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical care
- Permanent injuries or disabilities
A North Carolina car accident lawyer can help determine how best to pursue compensation in your case.
Why Hit and Run Claims are Often Denied or Undervalued
Insurance companies are businesses, and hit and run claims represent risk. Because there’s no at-fault driver to pursue, insurers often scrutinize these claims aggressively. Common issues include:
- Disputes over whether the accident actually occurred
- Claims that injuries were pre-existing
- Arguments that medical treatment was unnecessary or excessive
- Delays in processing or responding to claims
Without solid documentation and a clear strategy, it’s easy for an insurer to minimize what they owe or deny your claim outright. A hit and run accident attorney in Belmont can help you put together a bulletproof case.
How Long Do You Have to File a Car Accident Claim in NC?
North Carolina law imposes strict deadlines on personal injury claims. In most car accident cases, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident.
Uninsured motorist claims may involve additional notice requirements under your insurance policy. Missing a deadline can permanently bar you from recovering compensation, regardless of how strong your case is.
Common Injuries in Belmont Hit and Run Accidents
Since hit and run accidents often happen suddenly and without warning, the injuries they cause can be severe. Common ones include:
- Head and traumatic brain injuries
- Neck and back injuries, including whiplash
- Broken bones and fractures
- Soft tissue injuries
- Internal injuries
- Emotional distress and anxiety
What If You Were a Pedestrian or Cyclist?
Accidents involving pedestrians and cyclists are especially dangerous. These cases may still be covered by uninsured motorist coverage, even if you weren’t driving a car at the time. Depending on the circumstances, coverage may come from:
- Your own auto insurance policy
- A household member’s policy
- The policy covering the vehicle that struck you
Definition of a Hit and Run Accident in North Carolina?
A hit and run accident refers to when a driver causes a crash and leaves the scene without stopping to provide information or assistance. In North Carolina, drivers are legally required to stop after an accident that involves injury, death, or property damage. Failing to do so can result in serious criminal charges. Hit and run accidents in Belmont often involve:
- Collisions at intersections or traffic lights
- Pedestrians or cyclists struck by vehicles
- Parked cars damaged in parking lots or residential areas
- Rear-end crashes where the driver speeds away
Even if the collision seemed minor, leaving the scene is illegal and can significantly complicate the victim’s ability to recover compensation.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident in Belmont
After a hit and run, the first thing you should do is call 911. A police report is often required for insurance claims, especially uninsured motorist coverage. Next, gather any evidence you can. If you are able, note the vehicle’s description, direction of travel, or partial license plate number. Look for nearby security cameras, traffic cameras, or witnesses who may have seen the crash.
Third, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you feel fine, getting checked by a medical professional creates a record linking your injuries to the accident.
Finally, avoid discussing the accident with insurance companies until you have consulted a hit and run accident lawyer in Belmont. Statements made early on can be used to reduce or deny your claim later.
Speak to a Hit and Run Accident Lawyer in Belmont
Just because the driver who hit you drove away doesn’t mean you have to foot the bill for the accident. A Belmont hit and run accident attorney from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC can work tirelessly to identify the perpetrator and explore all potential sources of compensation on your behalf.
Book a free case review to get the legal help you need.
