Who Pays for My Damages and Injuries in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
Graver Law: Your Trusted Advocates in Personal Injury Cases
A hit-and-run accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Imagine being stopped at a red light when suddenly, another vehicle crashes into you from behind. Before you can react, the driver speeds away, leaving you with a damaged car, painful injuries, and no immediate answers. What do you do next? Who pays for your damages?
At Graver Law, we help victims of hit-and-run accidents navigate their legal options and seek the compensation they deserve.
What Happens After a Hit-and-Run?
Under Florida law, all drivers involved in an accident are legally required to:
✅ Stop at the scene and remain there.
✅ Provide their name, contact information, and insurance details.
✅ Assist injured parties by calling for medical help if necessary.
Leaving the scene of an accident without identifying yourself is a crime. If the at-fault driver is found, they can face criminal charges, along with financial liability for your damages.
Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene?
Hit-and-run drivers often leave to avoid legal or financial consequences. Common reasons include:
🚫 Driving under the influence (DUI)
🚫 Lack of auto insurance or a valid license
🚫 Fear of legal trouble (warrants, parole violations, prior offenses)
🚫 Panic or shock after the accident
Regardless of their reasons, you have legal options for seeking compensation.
How Does Insurance Cover a Hit-and-Run?
Florida operates under a no-fault insurance system, which means your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage will cover a portion of your medical expenses and lost wages—regardless of fault.
However, if your damages exceed PIP limits, additional compensation may be available through:
1. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
If you have Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage on your policy, it can pay for:
✔️ Medical bills
✔️ Lost wages
✔️ Pain and suffering
Since hit-and-run drivers are considered “uninsured” under Florida law, UM coverage may apply to your claim.
2. Collision Coverage
If you have collision coverage, your insurance may help pay for vehicle repairs regardless of fault.
3. Health Insurance
Your health insurance may cover additional medical costs beyond what PIP provides.
Can the Hit-and-Run Driver Be Identified?
Many hit-and-run drivers are eventually found through:
📹 Traffic and security camera footage
👀 Eyewitness statements
🚗 Dashcam recordings from other vehicles
🔎 Auto body shops recognizing suspicious vehicle damage
🚔 Law enforcement investigations
When the at-fault driver is identified, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against them or pursue a lawsuit if they have insurance or assets to cover your damages.
Will a Hit-and-Run Claim Affect My Insurance Rates?
Filing a claim for a hit-and-run accident where you were NOT at fault should not increase your rates. However, there is no guarantee, if you have a history of claims, your insurer may raise your premiums for this or other reasons.
What Compensation Can I Receive?
If the hit-and-run driver is found you may be entitled to:
🏥 Medical Expenses – Current and future medical bills
💼 Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed from work
😣 Pain and Suffering – Physical and emotional distress
🚗 Property Damage – Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle
How Long Do I Have to File a Hit-and-Run Claim?
Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. However, if the at-fault driver is identified later, you may have additional time to file a lawsuit.
Act quickly to protect your legal rights!
Why You Need a Hit-and-Run Attorney
A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling helpless, but Graver Law is here to help. Our experienced personal injury attorneys will:
✅ Investigate your case and identify all compensation sources
✅ Handle all communications with insurance companies
✅ Negotiate aggressively to maximize your settlement
✅ Take your case to court if necessary
We work on a contingency fee basis – meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Contact Graver Law for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. We are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
📞 Call us at (561) 228-7820
📧 Email us at info@graverlaw.com
🌐 Visit us online at www.graverlaw.com
At Graver Law, we handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. Let us fight for your rights.
