What Should You Do Legally If Involved in a Pedestrian Hit-and-Run?

What Is the Impact of a Pedestrian Hit and Run?

For a pedestrian, being struck by a driver who flees the scene of the accident can be a nightmare. You may be left physically injured and emotionally traumatized, unsure where to turn for help. In Louisiana, as in many other states, leaving the scene of an accident is not only morally wrong but also illegal. Hit and run is a crime punishable by fines, imprisonment, or both, as stated in the Louisiana Revised Statutes, Title 14, Section 100. If you have been injured in a pedestrian hit-and-run accident, it is crucial to understand your legal rights and what to do to protect them.

What Steps Should You Take After a Pedestrian Hit and Run Accident?

Taking the following steps after a pedestrian hit and run can help protect your health and legal rights.

Get to a Safe Location

Although it may be best to move as little as possible after a serious injury, it is also essential to ensure you are no longer in harm’s way. If you are in immediate danger, such as on a busy street, try to move to a safe location as quickly as possible. Call for emergency medical assistance if you have been seriously injured.

Report the Incident to the Police

Even if the driver who hit you has fled the scene, contact the police to report the accident immediately. Hit and run is a criminal offense, and getting law enforcement involved immediately is vital. Provide the police with as much information as possible about the incident, including your location at the time you were hit, what happened, and any details you can recall about the driver and the vehicle involved. Information such as the car’s make, model, color, distinguishing features, license plate numbers, a description of the driver, the direction the hit-and-run driver was traveling, and any other nearby vehicles can be helpful.

Document the Scene of the Accident

The more evidence you can gather at the scene, the stronger your case will be. If you can, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to clothing, accessories, or personal items. Get contact information for any eyewitnesses to the accident. Witness testimony can be valuable evidence. Surveillance cameras, traffic cameras, and any available dashcam footage could help law enforcement track down the responsible driver.

Seek Medical Attention

See a doctor as soon as possible for your injuries, even if you do not believe they are serious. Not all injuries will be noticeable after a pedestrian accident. For example, whiplash, concussion, soft tissue damage, and internal injuries appear hours or days later, with very painful or debilitating symptoms. Seeking medical attention ensures you get the necessary treatment and documents your injuries, which could be important in your claim when taking the at-fault driver to court.

File a Report With Your Auto Insurance Company

Under the terms of auto insurance policies in Louisiana, policyholders must report accidents promptly or within a reasonable time, which in many cases must be 24 hours. Failing to do so could jeopardize your ability to file a claim, particularly if you seek compensation through your insurance company. If your insurer asks for a detailed account of the accident, be truthful and provide all relevant information, but avoid making any statements that could be used against you. It is strongly advised that you speak with an attorney before offering information to the insurance company.

Consult With an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

A pedestrian hit and run in Louisiana may involve complex legal issues, and consulting with a personal injury lawyer is essential. A skilled attorney can explain your legal rights, guide you through the claims process, and represent you in a possible lawsuit. State law allows you to seek compensation for certain damages, including past and future medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and physical and emotional pain and suffering. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the greater the chances of gathering the evidence to build a strong case for compensation. If the hit-and-run driver is never identified or lacks adequate insurance, your attorney can help you navigate the complexities of Louisiana uninsured motorist law.

What Is the Law in Louisiana on Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

Louisiana insurance companies must offer a mandatory minimum amount of uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage with every auto insurance policy under the Louisiana Revised Statutes, Article 22, Section 1295. This type of coverage is critical in hit-and-run cases when the at-fault driver is not located or does not have enough insurance to cover the victim’s injuries. Having uninsured motorist coverage can act as a safety net to help ensure you receive the compensation you need after a hit-and-run pedestrian accident.

Why Is It Important to Have Patience, But Not Delay?

Pedestrian hit-and-run cases can be frustrating and require some patience. Legal cases involving serious injuries may take time to resolve when it is necessary to track down the driver who is responsible for your injuries. Although you must be patient, the earlier you hire a lawyer to assist you, the better it can be for your case. Once you have legal representation, your attorney can initiate the process of gathering and preserving all supporting evidence, leading to a far better outcome.

Our experienced car accident lawyers at Landgrave Garcia Injury Attorneys are dedicated to helping our clients move from pain to progress and from wreck to recovery. We offer not only legal expertise but also genuine care and empathy. If you have been hurt in a pedestrian hit and run, contact us at 337-242-7604 for the skilled legal representation you need.