Hit and Run Accident Attorney in Kansas City: What To Know

Being involved in a hit and run accident can be confusing and stressful. When a driver flees the scene after causing an accident, victims are often left with injuries, property damage, and questions about what to do next. A hit and run accident attorney in Kansas City can guide you through the legal process, help identify the responsible party, and pursue compensation for your losses. This guide explains what hit-and-run victims should know about their legal options and how to find the right attorney for their case.

Understanding Hit and Run Accidents in Kansas City

Hit and run accidents occur when a driver leaves the scene without providing contact information or helping injured parties. These incidents happen frequently on Kansas City highways and streets. Missouri law requires all drivers to stop after an accident, regardless of who was at fault. Additionally, drivers must exchange information and report accidents with injuries or significant damage.

Common Causes of Hit and Run Accidents

Many factors lead drivers to flee accident scenes rather than face their responsibilities. Often, these drivers lack insurance coverage or have expired licenses. Sometimes, they may be driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In other cases, they have outstanding warrants or previous traffic violations. Fear of consequences pushes them to make the situation worse by leaving. Furthermore, some drivers simply panic at the moment and make poor decisions.

Legal Definition of a Hit and Run in Missouri

Missouri law clearly defines hit and run incidents as leaving an accident scene without stopping to share information or help injured people. This applies to accidents involving other vehicles, pedestrians, or property damage. The severity of the offense increases if the accident causes injuries or death. Moreover, Missouri considers hit and runs serious crimes with significant penalties. First-time offenders face misdemeanor charges, while accidents causing serious injuries or death may result in felony charges.

Why You Need a Hit and Run Accident Attorney in Kansas City

After a hit and run, having professional legal help becomes crucial for protecting your rights. An experienced hit and run accident attorney in Kansas City knows how to navigate these complex cases. They work with insurance companies, investigators, and police to build your case. Plus, they understand Missouri’s specific laws governing these accidents and how they affect your compensation options.

Benefits of Hiring a Specialized Attorney

Working with a hit-and-run lawyer offers several advantages when dealing with these challenging cases. They have connections with accident investigators who can help identify the fleeing driver. They know how to secure valuable evidence like traffic camera footage before it disappears. They can also negotiate with your insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation under your uninsured motorist coverage. Additionally, they understand how to calculate all potential damages, including future medical costs you might not consider.

What to Look for in a Hit and Run Lawyer

When choosing a hit-and-run lawyer, look for someone with specific experience handling similar cases in Kansas City. Ask about their success rate with hit and run claims and their approach to investigation. Consider their communication style and whether they explain legal concepts clearly. Also, discuss their fee structure upfront to avoid surprises. Finally, read client reviews to learn about others’ experiences with the attorney and their staff.

Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident

The actions you take immediately after a hit and run can greatly affect your ability to recover compensation. First, ensure everyone’s safety and call 911 to report the accident. Try to remember details about the fleeing vehicle, such as make, model, color, and license plate numbers. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage.

Immediate Actions Following the Accident

Safety comes first after any accident, so check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Move to a safe location if possible without leaving the scene. Call the police right away and make sure they file an official report. Try to note any details about the fleeing driver or vehicle while they’re fresh in your memory. If witnesses are present, ask for their contact information and what they saw. Also, look around for security cameras that might have captured the incident.

Gathering Evidence to Support Your Case

Collecting strong evidence strengthens your position when filing insurance claims or lawsuits. Take clear photos of all vehicle damage, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. Write down everything you remember about the accident while it’s fresh in your mind. Keep all medical records and bills related to your injuries. Save repair estimates and receipts for any accident-related expenses. Your hit and run accident attorney in Kansas City can use this evidence to build a compelling case.

Understanding the Hit and Run Penalty in Missouri

Missouri takes hit and run offenses seriously, with penalties varying based on the accident’s severity. For accidents causing only property damage, drivers face Class A misdemeanor charges with potential jail time up to one year and fines up to $2,000. When accidents cause injuries, the hit and run penalty increases to a Class E felony with up to four years in prison.

Criminal Consequences for Hit and Run Drivers

Drivers who flee accident scenes face more than just fines and potential jail time. They also receive license suspensions or revocations depending on the case’s severity. Their insurance rates increase dramatically if they can get coverage at all. The court may order restitution payments to victims on top of criminal penalties. Moreover, these drivers develop criminal records that affect future employment and housing opportunities.

How an Attorney Helps Hit-and-Run Victims

A skilled hit-and-run lawyer serves as your advocate throughout the entire legal process. They work with law enforcement to identify the responsible driver whenever possible. They handle all communications with insurance companies to prevent them from minimizing your claim. They calculate fair compensation that includes all your losses, both economic and non-economic. Additionally, they can explore alternative compensation sources when the driver remains unidentified, such as uninsured motorist coverage.

Compensation Options for Hit-and-Run Victims

Even when the at-fault driver can’t be found, hit-and-run victims still have options for recovering damages. Your uninsured motorist coverage typically applies in these situations, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Some health insurance policies also help with medical costs regardless of who caused the accident.

Insurance Claims for Hit and Run Accidents

Filing insurance claims after a hit and run requires understanding the specific coverage types that apply to your situation. Uninsured motorist coverage becomes your primary resource when the driver remains unknown. Medical payment coverage helps with immediate healthcare costs regardless of fault. Personal injury protection may cover lost wages and some medical expenses depending on your policy. Each insurance type has different requirements and limitations that your attorney can explain.

Pursuing Damages When the Driver Is Found

When police identify the hit and run driver, your compensation options expand significantly. You can file claims against their liability insurance for all your damages. If their coverage is insufficient, your underinsured motorist protection may cover the difference. You can also pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the driver for comprehensive compensation. This approach often yields higher settlements that include punitive damages because of the driver’s illegal behavior.

Finding the Right Hit and Run Accident Attorney in Kansas City

Being hit by a driver who flees shows disregard for your well-being and the law. Don’t face this challenge alone. Contact Legal Referral today to connect with an experienced hit and run accident attorney in Kansas City who will fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.