A hit and run accident can be a life-changing incident. You can be injured in a way that causes you to miss work, and can sustain injuries that change your entire life. There are a number of things you might be able to do to get some kind of restitution from the driver. Below are three you can take.
Direct Negotiation
If you have been able to identify the person involved in a hit and run, you might be able to bring a claim against that person or his or her insurance. In this case, you’ll be able to directly negotiate a settlement. Be warned that an insurance settlement offer is usually much lower than what you might be awarded in court, but it does tend to be a faster alternative. There is a good chance that the insurance company will not cover the driver in such a circumstance, so you might need to deal directly with the person who caused the accident in the first place.
Mediation
If you’re looking for more than a phone call, it might be a good idea to pursue mediation. Mediation is a method of alternative dispute resolution that allows you to meet face to face with the other party and their attorneys, as well as a neutral third party. In many cases, mediation can allow you to come to a binding solution for much less than going to court. Mediation is not always an option, but it can be a good choice if there are multiple issues through which you need to work.
Trial
Of course, you can also pursue legal action in a trial. This is especially important when the other party isn’t willing to display any responsibility for the action. Remember, this individual is likely facing criminal charges after a hit and run accident, so you might not be able to negotiate anything after this individual is in jail. This is also one of the best ways to ensure the other party will be required to pay you something, even if he or she does not have any kind of insurance. Trials can be time-consuming and costly, but they are often worthwhile.
The hardest part about getting restitution after a hit and run accident is finding the other driver. If you can find them, you may pursue one of the types of action above. There’s no single right choice, but a good lawyer can help you determine which tactic will work best for your needs.
Author Information: Eileen O’Shanassy is a freelance writer and blogger based out of Flagstaff, AZ. She writes on a variety of topics and loves to research and write. She enjoys baking, biking, and kayaking. Check her out on Twitter at @eileenoshanassy.
