Available 24/7 Free Consultations
24/7 (928) 778-2660
Request Free Consultation

Prescott Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

All car accidents can be frustrating and overwhelming, but hit-and-run accidents take on another level of frustration (and likely anger). The at-fault driver not only causes physical, mental, and financial damage, but they don’t stick around to own up to their mistakes, leaving the burden on the innocent person they’ve harmed. 

Jensen Phelan Law Firm is a personal injury firm dedicated to helping injured accident victims obtain fair compensation. While cases may be complex, our attorneys have over 65 years of combined experience helping clients secure favorable outcomes, regardless of how complicated their cases may be. Chris Jensen spent 6 years prosecuting hit-and-run drivers as the original Prescott Valley Town Attorney, so we have lots of experience with this crime. Hit-and-run accident claims are challenging, but we are here to help significantly increase your chances of recovering fair compensation and maybe more justice. 

What Are the Options for Recovering Compensation After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

There are several options for recovering compensation after a hit-and-run accident in Arizona, including:

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

If you have uninsured motorist coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company. Uninsured motorist coverage can provide compensation for your past and future medical expenses, lost wages, physical pain, emotional harm, loss of enjoyment of life and property damage up to the limits of your policy.

Personal Injury Lawsuit

After being injured in a hit-and-run accident, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the hit-and-run driver if he/she/they is/are eventually found. However, this can be a long and difficult process, as you’ll need to prove that the other driver was in the driver in question, is in the wrong and prove the identify of that person in order to establish accountability.

Crime Victim Compensation Program

If you were the victim of a hit-and-run accident and suffered serious injuries, you may be eligible for compensation through the Arizona Crime Victim Compensation Program. This program provides financial assistance to victims of violent crimes, including hit-and-run accidents, to cover medical expenses, counseling, and lost wages. Eligibility requirements for a successful claim generally need the help of legal counsel for you.

Medical Payment (“Med Pay”) Coverage

If you have medical payment coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you may be able to use this coverage to pay for your/your passengers’ medical expenses related to the hit-and-run accident. This coverage is usually available regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

Negotiating with the Insurance Company

If the hit-and-run driver is caught and has insurance, you should usually be able to file a claim with their insurance company. If the driver is uninsured, you may still be able to negotiate with your own insurance company to receive compensation for your losses.

It’s important to consult with an experienced Prescott hit and run accident attorney as soon as possible to determine the best course of action for your specific situation. An attorney can help you navigate the complex and often confusing and frustrating legal process, working to make sure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to after a hit-and-run accident.

Why Are Hit-and-Run Accidents So Complex?

Having an attorney on your side after a serious accident is always beneficial. However, when it comes to hit-and-run accidents, it can be incredibly beneficial, as these accidents can be especially complicated and complex. Hit-and-run accident claims can be complicated for several reasons, including:

  • Identifying the At-Fault Driver: In a hit-and-run accident, the driver who caused the accident leaves the scene before their identity can be established. This makes it difficult to identify the at-fault driver and hold them responsible for the accident. Often, the hit-and-run driver does not tell the truth to the police (because there is often a reason that driver fled from the scene of the crash, such as intoxication, on probation, uninsured driver, etc., which motivates the lies).
  • Proving Fault: The burden of proof falls on the victim – you –  to prove that the other driver was at fault. This can be challenging, especially if there are no witnesses to the accident. Therefore, the assistance of an effective attorney becomes imperative.
  • Insurance Coverage: If the hit-and-run driver is not identified, it may be difficult to determine whether they have insurance coverage. Even if they do, their insurance company may deny the claim or dispute the amount of damages. Either way, you need a lawyer’s help. 
  • Medical Treatment: Hit-and-run accidents can result in serious injuries, which require immediate medical treatment. However, if the driver is not identified, the victim may not be able to recover the cost of their medical bills. Your lawyer increases your likelihood of getting a recovery for your losses and harms. 
  • Emotional Distress: Hit-and-run accidents can be traumatic, and victims may suffer emotional distress in addition to physical injuries. This can complicate the proof of you claims and make it more difficult to reach a full and fair insurance settlement.

Hit-and-run accident claims can be challenging. It’s important to work with an experienced Prescott hit and run accident lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and make sure that you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. 

How Can a Skilled Prescott Hit and Run Lawyer Help Your Hit-and-Run Case? 

If you’re hoping to obtain fair compensation through an uninsured claim, an attorney can be incredibly beneficial. While it’s possible to handle an uninsured motorist claim on your own, having an attorney can be helpful for several reasons:

  • Understanding the Law: An attorney has a deep understanding of the laws and regulations that apply to uninsured motorist claims in Arizona. They can explain your legal rights and help you navigate the complex legal system.
  • Filing a Claim: An attorney can help you file your uninsured motorist claim and make sure that you meet all the necessary deadlines and requirements. They can also work with your insurance company to gather evidence and negotiate a fair settlement.
  • Maximizing Compensation: An attorney can help you determine the full extent of your damages and make sure that you receive the maximum compensation you’re entitled to.
  • Handling Legal Issues: If your uninsured motorist claim is denied or your insurance company is acting in bad faith, an attorney can help you file a lawsuit and represent you in court. 
  • Reducing Stress: Dealing with an uninsured motorist claim can be stressful and overwhelming. By hiring an effective attorney, you can relieve much of the stressful burdens and simply focus on recovering from your injuries.

Having an attorney on your side can provide invaluable assistance when filing an uninsured motorist claim.

Speak With a Skilled and Trusted Prescott Hit and Run Accident Attorney Today 

Experiencing a hit-and-run and watching the person responsible drive off can be disheartening, especially if you’re unsure of what your options are for recovering compensation for the damages you sustained. This is why Jensen Phelan Law Firm offers a free assessment of your case and an explanation of your rights so you can make well-informed decisions on how to best proceed with your claim. Based on our experience since 1974, we know how to fight for you.

Our Jensen Phelan Law Firm attorneys can take over an insurance claim, negotiate with insurance adjusters, protect your rights, and provide many other services to help you recover compensation. Retaining the right Prescott hit and run accident lawyer to represent your interests could give you the power to fight for maximum compensation for your injuries and damages. Contact our firm today by completing our online contact form or calling (928) 778-2660.