Being struck by a vehicle is one of the most tragic experiences a person can go through. When the driver flees the scene, the consequences can be even more devastating.
A hit-and-run pedestrian accident can leave you with the uncertainty of how to pursue justice, on top of the physical injuries and emotional trauma. During this difficult time in your life, you need a legal advocate by your side looking out for your best interests.
At Cellino Law, we understand the fear, confusion, and frustration that follow these senseless acts. Our pedestrian accident lawyers are here to help victims hold negligent drivers accountable and recover the compensation they deserve. Complete the contact form or call us at 888-888-8888 to schedule a free case review.
The Legal Definition of a Hit-and-Run Accident
From a legal standpoint, a hit-and-run happens when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without stopping to help or report it, as required by law. A hit-and-run can involve a driver who collides with another vehicle, a pedestrian, or property.
A pedestrian hit-and-run accident means the driver has struck someone on foot and left the scene without providing assistance, identifying himself or herself, or contacting the authorities.
In most states, drivers are legally required to:
- Stop after an accident
- Check for injuries
- Call emergency services if someone is hurt
- Provide their names, contact information, and insurance details
When a driver fails to take these steps, he or she may be looking at criminal charges. This is especially true if someone was seriously injured or killed.
How Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accidents Happen
Pedestrian accidents usually happen quickly, catching victims completely off guard. In some tragic situations, a pedestrian accident is fatal. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that in one recent year, 23 percent of all pedestrian fatalities involved a hit-and-run driver.
Some of the most common hit-and-run pedestrian situations include:
- Crosswalk collisions: Drivers may speed through intersections or fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Distracted or impatient drivers are often to blame.
- Nighttime accidents: Visibility is reduced at night, so pedestrians are more difficult to spot. A driver may hit someone and panic. The driver may choose to flee rather than face the consequences.
- Parking lot accidents: Pedestrians walking through parking lots may be struck by drivers backing out or turning. Some drivers leave the scene before they can be identified.
- Roadside or shoulder incidents: Pedestrians walking along the edge of a road can be sideswiped by inattentive or impaired drivers.
- School zones and residential areas: These areas are supposed to be safe, but accidents still happen when drivers speed or don’t pay attention.
Steps to Take If You Are Injured in a Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Accident
Being hit by a car is a frightening and often traumatic experience. Sadly, these types of accidents happen more often than some people realize. The steps you take immediately after being involved in a pedestrian accident can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to seek compensation.
Here are some suggested steps to take if you are involved in a hit-and-run as a pedestrian:
- Get to safety. If you’re able to move, get out of the street and to a safe place. Your safety should be your top priority.
- Call 911 right away. Report the accident immediately. Let the dispatcher know you were hit and the driver left the scene. Ask for medical help, even if you don’t feel seriously injured. Some injuries take time to appear.
- Go to a doctor. Be sure to get checked out by a medical professional. Even minor injuries can become serious if left untreated. Your medical records will also help support your injury claim later on.
- Write down everything you remember. As soon as you can, jot down any details about the vehicle or driver. This might include the color, make, and model of the vehicle as well as the direction the car went. Even a partial license plate number can be useful.
- Take photos or videos. If you are able, take pictures of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage. This evidence can be beneficial to your case.
- File a police report. Be sure to file an official report with the police. This creates a legal record of the incident, which can be useful when negotiating with insurance companies or taking legal action.
- Contact a personal injury lawyer. A hit-and-run accident can be complicated. A lawyer who specializes in pedestrian accidents can help you pursue all avenues of compensation for your injuries.
How Cellino Law Can Help After a Hit-and-Run Pedestrian Accident
When you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, you may feel that justice is out of reach. But with the right legal team by your side, you have options.
Cellino Law can help you by:
- Investigating the accident: We work with law enforcement to help identify the at-fault driver. What if the driver is never found? We’ll explore other avenues for compensation, such as uninsured motorist coverage.
- Handling insurance claims: Dealing with insurance claims on your own can be frustrating and confusing. Our experienced lawyers manage all communication and negotiations to make sure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.
- Maximizing compensation: We fight for full compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. Our attorneys know how to build a strong case that reflects the true impact of the accident on your life.
- Providing peace of mind: When you hire our law firm, we handle the legal stress so you can focus on healing.
Contact Our Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Today
You should not have to face the aftermath of a hit-and-run alone. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a pedestrian accident, our law firm is here for you.
Our compassionate personal injury attorneys can help search for the hit-and-run driver and fight the insurance companies to protect your legal rights. We can navigate insurance issues and pursue compensation for your losses on your behalf.
Don’t wait. Contact Cellino Law today to schedule a free case review. We take all personal injury cases on contingency. You don’t pay any upfront costs or fees.