If someone leaves the scene of an accident in Chicago, it is likely considered a hit-and-run under Illinois law. As a result, the at-fault driver can face criminal penalties in addition to civil liability for the damage they caused. Injured victims in these cases may still have legal options through an insurance claim and/or a lawsuit if the driver is found. Acting quickly after a car accident like this is important for protecting your rights and preserving evidence.
What Are the Legal Consequences for Leaving the Scene of an Accident?
The penalties for a hit-and-run in Illinois depend largely on what happened in the accident. If the crash only involved property damage, the offense is usually charged as a misdemeanor. However, if the accident caused bodily injury, the driver may face felony charges, which carry more serious consequences.
In addition to criminal penalties, the driver can still be sued in civil court. A criminal case focuses on punishment, while a personal injury claim in Chicago focuses on compensating the victim for their economic and non-economic damages.
How Can I Pursue Compensation as a Victim of a Hit-and-Run Accident?
Recovering compensation can become more complicated when the responsible driver flees the scene, but it is not impossible. If the police are able to locate the driver, for instance, you may pursue a personal injury claim directly against them. Evidence such as surveillance footage and vehicle debris can sometimes help identify the responsible party.
If the driver is not immediately found, you may still have options through your own insurance coverage. Many Illinois drivers carry uninsured motorist coverage, which can apply in hit-and-run situations. This type of claim allows you to seek compensation regardless of whether the identity of the at-fault driver is known.
What Should I Do After a Chicago Hit-and-Run Accident?
What you do right after a hit-and-run crash can make a significant difference in any future legal claim you might have. You should consider taking the following steps if it is safe to do so:
- Calling 911 to report the accident and request medical help
- Writing down any details you remember about the fleeing vehicle
- Taking photos and videos of the accident scene
- Speaking with witnesses and collecting their contact information
- Seeking medical treatment as soon as possible
These steps can help establish what happened and connect the fleeing driver to the accident.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Personal Injury Lawyer To Learn More
Hit-and-run cases often involve additional challenges compared to typical car accident claims in Chicago, but it’s important to remember that you still may be able to recover compensation for your injuries and related losses.
Call (630) 576-9696 today to schedule a free consultation with the team at Meyers & Flowers. We can review the facts of your case and offer you some preliminary legal advice about your best course of action when you meet with us. We also work for a contingency fee, which means we only get paid for our work if we successfully handle your claim.