After a car accident, most drivers do the right thing. This means stopping, making sure everyone is okay, then exchanging insurance information. Unfortunately, some drivers panic after a car accident and drive away. This can create a lot of hassle for injury victims who do not know where to turn to get payment for their medical bills and lost wages.
Your own insurance company may give you problems after a hit-and-run accident, putting the burden on you to get compensation for your injuries. It may be time to contact an experienced Denver accident lawyer to make sure you are compensated after an injury accident.
Does Insurance Cover a Hit and Run Accident
The short answer to whether your insurance covers a hit-and-run accident is, “it depends.” It depends on a number of factors, including the cause of the accident, extent of the damage, whether anyone was injured, type of policy, and whether the hit-and-run driver is caught.
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can help if the other driver does not have insurance, does not have enough insurance, or is never found. UM/UIM policies are optional for Colorado drivers but the insurance companies have to at least offer the coverage. Collision coverage is also an optional policy that may help you recover damages after a hit-and-run accident.
Drivers who are injured by a hit-and-run driver assume that the other driver was at fault because otherwise, they would stop after an accident. Unfortunately, the insurance company doesn't necessarily see it that way. The insurance company will still want some evidence of liability, or who was responsible for causing the accident. Showing liability may require finding out who the other driver was in the first place.
Denver Police Didn't Catch the Hit and Run Driver
After a hit-and-run accident, the injury victim should contact the police. Reporting the accident is important for your insurance claim and may help track down who was responsible for the accident. However, the police may or may not find out who caused the accident. If you are able to safely do so, gather any evidence or information about the accident, including:
- License plate number
- Vehicle description
- Where the vehicle was heading
- Photos or video of vehicle damage
- Witness contact information
Why Drivers Flee After a Hit and Run Accident in Colorado
Under Colorado law, when a person is involved in a motor vehicle accident, they are generally required to identify themself, report the accident, exchange insurance information, and help the other driver if they are injured or in danger. Failure to do this may be a criminal offense.
There are a number of reasons why a driver may leave the scene after an accident. Some of the most common reasons why drivers leave after an accident include:
- The driver was drunk or impaired,
- The driver is not licensed,
- The driver does not have insurance, or
- The driver has a warrant.
Contact a Denver Accident Attorney
As the injury victim, you deserve compensation for your injuries. Contact the Denver Legal Eagles to fight for your rights and get the financial compensation you deserve.
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