When you get hurt in a Wisconsin car accident, the typical first steps are to exchange information with the other driver and then file a personal injury claim with their insurance company. But that isn’t possible if the at-fault driver leaves without stopping.
So, what can you do after a driver flees the scene? Injured victims may have more legal options after hit-and-run accidents than they think. An experienced Wisconsin hit-and-run lawyer can make personalized recommendations after reviewing the facts of the case.
What Is a Hit and Run in Wisconsin?
A hit and run occurs when a motorist strikes another vehicle and drives off. This is against the law in Wisconsin.
Under Wisconsin law, drivers must notify law enforcement after any motor vehicle accident in which:
- Anyone is injured or killed.
- There is $1,000 or more in property damage.
Drivers involved in injury crashes must also stop their vehicle and remain at the scene, offer assistance to any injured parties, and show their driver’s license on request.
What Should I Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
Follow these steps after a hit-and-run accident:
- Call 911 to report the crash.
- Tell the dispatcher and responding officer what you remember about the car that hit you. The make, model, color, and direction the driver was going when they left the scene can all be helpful.
- Document your injuries and any damage to your vehicle with photos and video.
- Ask witnesses for their contact information.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Contact a Wisconsin hit-and-run accident attorney for legal guidance.
Common Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases
Hit-and-run cases are often challenging due to a lack of evidence. Common challenges include:
- Identifying the driver who hit you
- Proving that the person you identified was the driver responsible for the hit and run
- Obtaining compensation if the responsible driver has no auto insurance or is underinsured
There are ways to overcome these challenges, even if the at-fault driver remains at large. Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) is mandatory in Wisconsin and should cover up to $25,000 for injuries to one person or $50,000 for injuries to two or more. If you purchased UM coverage, you can file a car accident claim seeking compensation from your own insurance company.
