Raleigh Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

Close-up of a police car with red and blue lights flashing at night during a hit and run incident in Raleigh

A hit and run can turn an already traumatic experience into something even more frustrating and frightening. When a driver flees the scene, they leave you facing not only serious injuries and significant financial distress, but also the uncertainty of not knowing what to do next.

Fortunately, you’re not alone. The dedicated Raleigh hit and run lawyers and car accident attorneys at Hardison & Cochran | Injury & Workers Comp Lawyers can answer the tough questions and help you pursue the compensation and accountability you deserve. Contact us today for your free, no-obligation consultation to learn more about your rights.

Common Causes of Hit and Run Accidents in Raleigh

Hit and run crashes happen for many reasons in Raleigh and across Wake County, and most of them trace back to driver misconduct or panic. A driver might flee the scene of an accident because of the following reasons:

  • They are driving under the influence
  • They do not have a valid driver’s license or have a suspended license
  • They do not have insurance or have expired coverage
  • They have outstanding warrants or prior criminal issues
  • They fear arrest or financial consequences
  • They panic and let “fight or flight” take over

Busy roads like I-40, Glenwood Avenue, or downtown Raleigh intersections increase the risk of these accidents. Wherever the collision occurs, our Raleigh hit and run accident attorneys can investigate the cause and work to identify the liable party so they can face accountability.

North Carolina Hit and Run Laws and Penalties

North Carolina law takes hit and run accidents seriously. The law requires every driver involved in a crash to stop, provide information, and render reasonable assistance or face significant penalties. Specifically, under North Carolina General Statute § 20-166, drivers must do the following:

  • Stop immediately at the scene
  • Provide their name, address, and vehicle information
  • Show their driver’s license upon request
  • Provide reasonable aid to anyone injured

If a driver fails to meet these requirements, they may face criminal penalties. Depending on the severity of the crash, those penalties can include the following:

  • Fines
  • Suspension or revocation of a driver’s license
  • Jail time
  • Mandatory restitution

Steps to Take After a Hit and Run in Raleigh, NC

You can protect your health and strengthen your personal injury claim by taking quick, decisive action after a hit and run accident. Be sure to do the following:

  • Write Down Details About the Fleeing Driver – If you’re able, note everything you can about the fleeing driver’s car, including the make, model, color, license plate number, damage, and any distinguishing features.
  • Call 911 – Report the crash right away and request medical assistance for any injuries. The responding officer will create an accident report that your hit and run accident lawyer in Raleigh can use to build your claim.
  • Document the Accident Scene – Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, skid marks, accident debris, traffic signs and signals, the surrounding area, and visible injuries.
  • Talk to Witnesses – If anyone saw the accident, they may offer powerful testimony supporting your version of events. Gather their names and contact information.
  • Seek Prompt Medical Attention – See a doctor as soon as possible, even if you don’t feel hurt. Not only should they treat any injuries you may have suffered (including those you don’t know about yet), but doing so will create records linking the accident to those injuries.
  • Contact an Attorney – An experienced lawyer for hit and run accidents can help you pursue all potential avenues for compensation, whether that’s by locating the at-fault driver or filing claims under your own insurance policy provisions. Reach out to one as soon as you can.

How to Recover Compensation After a Raleigh Hit and Run Accident

Even when the at-fault driver disappears, you still have options. North Carolina law allows injured victims to pursue compensation through several avenues.

First, state law requires all auto insurance policies to include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage often applies to hit and run accidents and can pay for current and future medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

Furthermore, if investigators locate the driver, you can pursue a personal injury claim against their auto insurance, or a personal injury lawsuit against the driver themselves if their insurance coverage falls short.

Depending on the circumstances, compensation may also come from the following:

  • Underinsured motorist coverage, if the at-fault driver is found, but their insurance proves insufficient
  • Employer insurance, if the driver was working at the time of the crash
  • Third-party liability, if other drivers or entities contributed to the crash

How a Raleigh Hit and Run Lawyer Can Help

Hit and run cases require fast and thorough investigation. If you want to recover your rightful compensation, you need a skilled lawyer for hit and run accidents to guide you. Your attorney can help by doing the following:

  • Promptly investigating the incident to uncover key evidence
  • Communicating with law enforcement about their attempts to locate the driver
  • Exploring all potential avenues for compensation
  • Calculating the fair value of the compensation you’re entitled to
  • Working with insurance companies so you don’t have to
  • Negotiating for a fair settlement
  • Representing you in court, if necessary

Contact Hardison & Cochran | Injury & Workers Comp Lawyers for Your Free Case Review

The team at Hardison & Cochran has proudly protected the rights of hardworking North Carolina residents for over 40 years. In that time, we’ve recovered millions in settlements and verdicts on behalf of our clients, many of whom have shared heartfelt testimonials about the quality of our services:

“After my car accident as a passenger, I didn’t know what to do. I was hurt in the accident. After finally deciding to hire a lawyer, I did a lot of research on who to hire. From consultation to finally a settlement, Hardison & Cochran were fantastic to work with. They are professional, kind, and understanding. I hope I am never in an accident again but if I am and require a lawyer I will definitely hire Hardison & Cochran again.” —Jessica W., former client.

If you’ve suffered injuries in a hit and run accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our attorneys are ready to fight for the accountability and compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery. Contact us today for your free consultation.