Sandusky Hit-And-Run Crashes: What To Do When The At-Fault Driver Flees
Sandusky car accidents happen suddenly and can leave you reeling afterward. It’s even more stressful when the at-fault driver flees the scene.
Unfortunately, it also leaves you facing a serious problem: how do you get compensation when you can’t identify the person responsible? Our experienced Sandusky hit-and-run car crash lawyers explain the steps you can take to protect yourself and your options for seeking compensation.
What To Do After A Hit-And-Run Car Crash In Sandusky
The Ohio Department of Public Safety (DPS) reports that nearly 2,500 car crashes happen each year in Erie County. When other drivers are to blame, you can hold them accountable, but what happens when the at-fault party doesn’t stop?
Hit-and-run drivers are often motivated by panic, fear, and a strong desire to evade the authorities. They may be driving without a license or insurance, be under the influence, or have outstanding warrants. Taking these steps in the aftermath can help in protecting yourself and your rights to compensation:
- Notify the police immediately, wait for them to arrive, and get an accident report.
- Write down or record everything you remember about the other vehicle while it’s fresh, including color, make, model, partial plate numbers, and the direction the driver fled.
- Photograph the crash scene, your vehicle, your injuries, and any debris or paint transfer left behind.
- Get contact info from anyone who may have witnessed the crash.
- Get medical care immediately.
- Contact your insurance company, but get legal help before giving a recorded statement.
Under Ohio Revised Code Section 4549.02, leaving the scene of a car crash involving injury is a criminal offense. That doesn’t put money in your pocket, but a police investigation and criminal charges can provide additional evidence in a Sandusky hit-and-run injury claim.
Ways To Get Compensation After An Ohio Hit-And-Run Crash
Sandusky car crashes can leave victims with devastating injuries. When the at-fault party flees, it can also cause major financial losses. Your options in holding them accountable include:
- If the driver is apprehended, you can file a civil claim to help cover property damage, medical bills, and other costs.
- If they are never identified, your uninsured motorist coverage can help offset losses.
- If they are eventually found, compensation may be available through your uninsured motorist coverage.
- MedPay is a common no-fault add-on and covers medical expenses, regardless of whether you can identify the other driver.
Leaving the scene of a car crash in Sandusky is a serious crime. Ohio’s Crime Victims Compensation Program provides limited assistance to hit-and-run victims who have no other coverage.
For Trusted Help, Contact Our Experienced Sandusky Car Crash Lawyers
Ohio car wrecks can cause devastating harm. When the at-fault driver flees, our experienced Sandusky car crash lawyers take the actions needed to identify them and hold them accountable.
At Murray & Murray, we help victims get compensation, regardless of whether the driver is ever found. For trusted legal help, contact us today and request a consultation. We protect clients throughout Sandusky, Ohio, and the surrounding Northern Ohio region.
Sources:
ohtrafficdata.dps.ohio.gov/CrashStatistics/Home/GeneralStats
codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-4549.02
codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3937.18
ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Individuals-and-Families/Victims/Apply-for-Victims-Compensation