Few things are more frustrating and frightening than being hit by a driver who flees the scene. Hit and run accidents leave victims injured, confused, and wondering how they will pay for their medical bills and vehicle repairs. The good news is that Georgia law provides several paths to compensation, even if the other driver is never found.
What Qualifies as a Hit and Run in Georgia
Under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 40-6-270), any driver involved in an accident that causes injury, death, or property damage is required to stop, provide identification, and render reasonable assistance. Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, and the penalties increase when injuries or death are involved.
Hit and run incidents include situations where the driver:
- Flees immediately after the collision
- Provides false contact or insurance information
- Moves their vehicle and leaves before police arrive
- Clips your vehicle and keeps driving (sideswipe hit and run)
How to Get Compensation After a Hit and Run
Even if the other driver cannot be identified, you may still have options for recovering damages:
- Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage: Your own auto insurance policy's UM coverage can pay for injuries and damages caused by a hit and run driver. Georgia requires all insurers to offer UM coverage, and it is strongly recommended that drivers carry it.
- Medical payments coverage (MedPay): If you carry MedPay on your policy, it can cover medical expenses regardless of fault.
- Collision coverage: This can pay for repairs to your vehicle even if the other driver is unknown.
- Civil lawsuit: If the hit and run driver is eventually identified, you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit against them directly.
Key point: Uninsured motorist coverage is your most important protection against hit and run drivers. If you do not currently carry UM coverage, consider adding it to your policy. The cost is typically low compared to the protection it provides.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Hit and Run
Quick action can make a major difference in a hit and run car accident case:
- Try to note any details about the fleeing vehicle - color, make, model, license plate, direction of travel
- Call 911 immediately and file a police report
- Look for witnesses who may have seen the vehicle or captured footage
- Check for nearby security cameras or doorbell cameras that may have recorded the incident
- Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries
- Seek medical attention right away
- Report the accident to your insurance company
- Contact a personal injury attorney to review your coverage options
At Wells and McElwee, P.C., we help hit and run victims in Athens and Northeast Georgia navigate insurance claims and pursue every available source of compensation.
| Victim of a hit and run in Georgia? Schedule a free consultation so we can review your options. |
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