What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Lafayette, LA

Being in any type of car accident is stressful. Matters only become more convoluted when you can’t identify the at-fault party right away. Beyond understanding Lafayette car accident laws, it’s imperative for local drivers to know what to do after a hit-and-run accident in Lafayette, LA. By understanding what steps to take in the wake of a traffic incident, you can better protect yourself and your access to compensation.

Hit-and-Run Car Accidents in Lafayette

Car accidents pose a big risk to drivers from all walks of life. It’s estimated that an average of 22,000 Louisiana residents a year are admitted to a hospital for an unintentional injury. Motor vehicle accidents are among the top three reasons behind these injuries.

The number of traffic crashes reported in Lafayette had been steadily rising in recent years, peaking at 67 accidents in 2022, including six that involved serious injuries and two fatalities. Another 60 accidents were reported in 2023 with no fatalities.

If you’re involved in a car accident in Louisiana, it’s important to know what steps to take to protect yourself and recover damages for your losses. It can be especially challenging to know what to do after a hit-and-run accident. Approximately 25 percent of all crashes in Louisiana were hit-and-run accidents in 2023.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Lafayette

After a hit-and-run accident, your first move is to make sure no one is injured or in immediate danger. After that, contact local law enforcement and wait at the scene for them to arrive. It’s wise to gather as much information as you can at the crash site by taking pictures, writing down notes, and talking to witnesses.

Once the police arrive, be sure to give them a statement and request a copy of the police report. All this information can be used when you file a claim to recover damages. It’s important to inform your insurance company about an accident as soon as you can, especially in hit-and-run cases. If you cannot identify the at-fault party, your own insurance provider is likely going to cover the damages.

Even though it’s your insurer, you can’t count on them to provide a fair settlement for you automatically. In fact, most insurance companies aim to save as much money as possible and are likely to try to offer the minimum amount of compensation.

It’s critical to build a strong case, backed by evidence, that demonstrates how much you deserve in your settlement. A car accident attorney can collect the evidence you need to secure the compensation you are rightfully owed.

FAQs

How Do I Recover Damages If I Can’t Identify the At-Fault Party in a Lafayette Hit-and-Run Case?

If you can’t find the party responsible for a hit-and-run accident in Lafayette, you are likely going to recover damages through your own insurance coverage. Typically, you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage and collision coverage to help with these types of situations.

You still must present relevant evidence to secure compensation. Your insurer is going to try to save as much money as possible, so they are likely going to look for ways to give you the minimum payout.

Do I Have to Hire a Car Accident Lawyer After a Hit-and-Run Case in Lafayette?

You’re not required to hire a car accident lawyer after a hit-and-run accident, but it’s highly recommended that you do to file a claim and recover damages. Filing a claim against an identified party can be challenging enough on its own. Recovering damages in a hit-and-run case can be even more difficult. A car accident attorney can investigate further to identify the at-fault party and make sure you’re compensated properly for your losses.

How Much Can I Recover From a Hit-and-Run Case in Lafayette?

Your total settlement amount after a car accident is going to hinge on a variety of factors, including:

• The severity of the damages
• Whether you can identify the at-fault party
• The details of your own insurance coverage

If you can’t find the person responsible, your own insurer is likely going to cover the damages. It’s equally important to present a strong case, supported by evidence, regardless of how you’re fighting for compensation.

What Steps Do I Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Lafayette?

The first step to take after an accident is to make sure everyone is out of immediate danger and seek medical attention if necessary. While you’re at the scene, it’s wise to document as much of the accident as possible. Take pictures and videos, and try to get statements from any witnesses. It’s important to report the incident to your insurance provider and collect any relevant evidence. At this point, it’s also wise to contact a car accident attorney.

Hire a Car Accident Lawyer for Your Claim in Lafayette

It’s important to understand the risks of being on the road to protect yourself and secure your right to compensation for your losses, especially in the case of hit-and-run accidents. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through the process on your own. In fact, it’s highly recommended to hire a car accident lawyer to represent you through the claims process. They can: 

• Investigate your incident.
• Assemble evidence to build your claim.
• Advocate for you in negotiations.
• Assert your rights in court.
• Maximize your recovery in all the ways you need.

Our legal team at Blake Jones Law Firm has been handling personal injury cases in Louisiana for over 50 years. We have earned a great reputation over that timespan, gaining a high rating from Super Lawyers®.

We’ve been honored as Lawyers of Distinction and were peer-rated as AV® Preeminent™ for our high ethical standards and legal abilities. As a local personal injury law firm, we have experience in navigating cases through the City Court of Lafayette and the 15th Judicial District Court.

Don’t face it alone—our team tracks down hit-and-run drivers. Contact a local attorney to discuss your case in more detail today.