Phoenix Hit and Run Accident Lawyers

Identifying a driver who flees the scene of an accident may be difficult, as many hit-and-runs occur under low-visibility conditions. Law enforcement will investigate and attempt to locate the at-fault party but tracking them down is not always successful. Even when authorities find the suspect’s vehicle, determining who was driving at the time of the incident may present additional challenges. It is important to retain legal counsel in these situations to protect your rights.

A skilled Phoenix hit-and-run accident lawyer can help you explore options for maximum compensation and ensure you receive the justice you deserve.

Prevalence of Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-runs are a growing concern on roads across the country, with statistics showing a significant increase in recent years:

• A 2020 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicated a 26 percent rise in hit-and-run fatalities compared to the previous year.
• In 2022, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported that approximately 25 percent of pedestrian fatalities resulted from hit-and-runs.
• In Arizona, the Department of Transportation’s 2022 data revealed that 15,874 hit-and-runs occurred, resulting in 109 fatalities and 3,660 injuries.

These alarming numbers highlight the dangers of hit-and-runs and the importance of seeking assistance from an experienced attorney after such an incident.

Penalties for a Hit-and-Run in Arizona

In Arizona, state law requires all drivers involved in a traffic collision to stop, exchange information, and provide reasonable assistance if an involved party is injured – regardless of fault. Failing to fulfill these obligations may result in serious hit-and-run charges, depending on the circumstances of the incident:

• Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run: If a motorist leaves the scene of a crash that only involves property damage, they may face a misdemeanor charge under ARS 28-662.
• Felony Hit-and-Run: If the collision results in injury or death and the motorist flees the scene, they may be charged with a felony offense under ARS 28-661.

Leaving the scene of an accident in Arizona carries severe legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and possible jail time. If you have been injured in a crash caused by a hit-and-run driver, retain legal counsel immediately to ensure that your rights are protected, and you receive the financial recovery you deserve.

Crucial Evidence for Identifying a Hit-and-Run Driver

If you have been injured in an accident caused by a hit-and-run driver, gathering key evidence can significantly improve your chances of identifying the fleeing motorist and seeking compensation. Documenting as much information as possible can assist law enforcement and your Phoenix hit-and-run accident attorney in building a strong case. Important details to collect include:

• Exact time and location of the incident
• License plate of the fleeing car, if visible
• Physical description of the hit-and-run driver
• Make, model, and color of the suspect vehicle
• Police report number once the incident is filed
• Photographs of the crash site and vehicle damage
• The last known direction the suspect vehicle was headed
• Contact information of any witnesses who saw the hit-and-run

Providing this information to an experienced hit-and-run injury attorney in Phoenix can assist in the investigation and improve your chances of recovering compensation for damages incurred. To get started today, call our law office or fill out an online contact form to set up a free consultation today.

Importance of Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Hit-and-Run Collisions

Many drivers waive uninsured motorist (UM) coverage without truly realizing the potential risks–only to find themselves injured in a crash caused by a hit-and-run driver. In an ideal situation, law enforcement identifies the suspect, and they have liability coverage through their auto insurance policy or their employer’s policy if they were on the job at the time of the incident. However, in many cases, the driver is never found, leaving the injured party without a clear path to compensation.

Uninsured motorist protection is an important safety net for drivers in Phoenix and across Arizona, providing financial protection in situations where the at-fault party either has no liability coverage or cannot be identified. This coverage helps pay for damages that result from a hit-and-run or a crash involving a driver that does not have auto insurance. Without UM coverage, injured parties may be left covering these costs out of pocket, creating significant financial hardship.

Investing in UM coverage provides peace of mind and added security on the road, helping drivers and passengers stay protected no matter the circumstances. It is important to avoid signing a waiver for UM/UIM coverage when purchasing an auto insurance policy, as this may leave you and your passengers vulnerable in the event of a hit-and-run. Do not compromise your protection–carry UM coverage to ensure you are fully covered in a hit-and-run in Phoenix no matter the situation.

Should You Accept the First Settlement Offer on an Injury Claim?

If an insurance company presents an initial settlement offer on a bodily injury claim for a hit-and-run accident, it is best to politely decline and seek assistance from a skilled lawyer. While insurance adjusters may seem genuinely concerned about your situation, their goal is to protect the insurer’s bottom line by minimizing payouts. Accepting the first offer may mean settling for far less than you deserve. Our legal team has the experience and resources to maximize your recovery.

Assistance for Hit-and-Run Accident Victims in Phoenix

Even when a hit-and-run driver is found, they may not have auto insurance or carry only minimal liability coverage, making it difficult to recover the compensation needed to cover medical bills, property damage, and other losses. This is where having a knowledgeable lawyer on your side is essential. An experienced Phoenix hit-and-run injury attorney can guide you through your legal options and help you seek the maximum compensation you deserve.

Contact a Phoenix Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer for Assistance Today

If you have been injured in a crash caused by a hit-and-run driver, navigating the aftermath can be overwhelming, especially if the fleeing motorist is not identified. The good news is that you do not have to go through this complicated process alone. A Phoenix hit-and-run injury lawyer can investigate the incident and build a strong case for compensation. Book a free consultation at (602) 777-3300. Our office proudly serves clients in Maricopa County and across the state of Arizona.