A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling helpless, but you still have options to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C., we use aggressive legal strategies to track down at-fault drivers and hold insurance companies accountable. With over $350 million recovered for injury victims, we have the experience to fight for you. No fees unless we win—call now for a free consultation.
Hit and run car accidents are usually defined as, an accident where one of the parties to the accident has “hit” you and fled the scene of the accident. Usually, there must be contact with a vehicle, pedestrian, or other object. Almost all auto insurance policies require “contact”__. If there is no “contact” there is no claim for “hit and run” benefits. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety a hit and run accident happens every minute in the U.S. In Michigan, it is illegal to flee the scene of an auto accident.
If the hit and run accident involves property or vehicle damage, you can be charged with a misdemeanor. Your punishment can be 90 days in jail, up to $100 in fines, and your driver’s license can be suspended. See MCLA 257.618.
If you have been involved in a hit and run accident, you have contractual responsibilities with your auto insurance company. When you purchase auto insurance you basically have an insurance contract with your insurance company, which most people don’t read. The contract has terms and conditions that you must comply with to preserve your rights under the policy. Our lawyers at the Joseph Dedvukaj Firm specialize in hit and run uninsured motorist coverage claims. Furthermore, if your loved one was tragically killed in a hit and run accident, we can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit on your behalf.
What If I am Injured In A Car Accident With A Hit and Run Driver?
If you have been injured in a hit and run accident, you have two contractual responsibilities to preserve your claim with the auto insurance company. The insurance company requires you to report the hit and run accident to the police within 24 hours. You have to also report the hit and run accident to your car insurance company immediately, usually within 30 days. If you don’t report the hit and run accident to the police and your auto insurance company as required in the policy, you could lose your right to uninsured motorist benefits.
By reporting the hit and run accident to the police, the police can try to find the hit and run driver responsible. If the hit and run driver cannot be identified, you can still make a no-fault insurance claim to have your medical expenses, wage loss, household services and attendant care paid by your no fault insurance. If you don’t have any insurance you may still qualify for PIP no fault coverage through the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan, unless you owned the uninsured vehicle involved in the accident. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can claim pain and suffering and excess economic damages from your own insurance company.
Given the frequency of hit and run accidents, you must purchase uninsured motorist coverage to protect you and your family members. You should buy at least $250,000 in uninsured motorist coverage.
What To Do After a Hit and Run Accident
You have an obligation to immediately report the hit and run accident to the police and your insurance company. Your failure to report the accident to the police or delay more than 24 hours could cost you your rights to uninsured motorist benefits.
Seek Medical Attention
If you are injured in a hit and run accident, you should seek medical attention immediately. Usually, if you call 911, the police and ambulance will be dispatched to the scene. You will give the police the details about what happened. If you are in danger of getting hit by other vehicles, you should clear the intersection, if possible, so you don’t get hit by other vehicles.
Attempt to Identify the Hit and Run Vehicle
After you have called the police, if you are able to write, make a note of what the vehicle looked like so you can give the police and the auto insurance company the details. A license plate number is most beneficial to identify the hit and run vehicle. However, in most cases the hit and run driver leaves the scene too quickly to be able to write down the license plate. You should write down as much information as you can about the hit and run car and driver. You should also take down the names, address, and telephone number of any witnesses.
Call the Police
You should call 911 at the scene of the accident if you are able. If someone is injured in the hit and run accident, you should report the hit and run crash and injuries to the police and request an ambulance. Even if nobody is injured you should still report the accident to the police to comply with your auto insurance policy obligations. Do not wait because the auto insurance may deny coverage. Your insurance company usually requires a police report before you can start a claim. In addition, the police are more likely to find the hit and run driver when the matter is fresh.
When To Contact the Insurance Company
You will need to contact the police immediately after the hit and run accident or within 24 hours. After you have reported the hit and run accident to the police, sought medical help, then you can contact your auto insurance to make a claim. If you call the police right away, your memory of the accident will be better. You should try to file an insurance claim with the assistance of a hit and run auto accident lawyer so you can properly follow the terms and conditions of your auto insurance policy. The policy may require specific information in a written notice and request for uninsured benefits. Usually, the car insurance policy will require that you make an uninsured motorist claim within 30 days. Do not delay contacting a car accident lawyer to preserve your rights to uninsured motorist benefits.
What Auto Insurance Coverage Applies After a Hit-and-Run?
Your insurance policy will provide the bases for a hit-and-run claim if you were smart enough to buy uninsured motorist coverage. You should have collision coverage and unlimited PIP medical coverage to protect you in this situation. Your collision coverage should cover damage to your vehicle.
In Michigan, your personal protection insurance coverage should pay your medical bills, housekeeping benefits, wage loss, and attendant care benefits. How your uninsured motorist policy is written varies by insurer. In Michigan, uninsured motorist coverage is not required by law. If the at-fault driver flees the scene of the injury accident or is later identified to be uninsured, you may be on the hook to pay your own damages, if you did not purchase uninsured motorist coverage.
One of the motives for a hit and run driver to flee the scene of a personal injury accident is the lack of insurance. Your uninsured motorist coverage can also cover economic losses not covered by other coverages in your policy e.g., excess wage loss or medical bills not covered by PIP coverage. You need to have your policy reviewed by a hit and run uninsured motorist specialist at our law firm.
Best Michigan Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a hit and run crash, contact The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, preeminent Michigan expert hit and run accident attorneys today for a free consultation.
Call us now for a free confidential consultation at [248-352-2110](tel:+12483522110) or Toll Free at 866-447-3563.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Hit and Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling helpless, but you still have options. Find out how Michigan’s insurance laws apply, what steps to take, and how our firm can help you recover damages even if the at-fault driver is unidentified.
How long do you have to report a hit-and-run in Michigan?
In Michigan, you should report a hit-and-run accident to the police within 24 hours to ensure your legal rights are protected. While the law allows up to three days to report a motor vehicle accident, immediate reporting is crucial for gathering evidence and enhancing your case’s strength. Our firm, with its proven track record of securing over $350 million in settlements, is ready to assist you in navigating these situations effectively.
Will police investigate minor hit-and-run?
In Michigan, police are obligated to investigate hit-and-run accidents, even minor ones, particularly if there are damages, injuries, or evidence that could identify the driver. At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, we have a proven track record of successfully advocating for hit-and-run victims, ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve. If you’ve been affected, we can help navigate the legal process and hold the responsible party accountable.
What happens if I hit someone’s car and drove off?
In Michigan, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense that can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the circumstances. Potential penalties include fines, imprisonment, and a suspended license. At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, we have extensive experience navigating these complex situations and can help protect your rights while minimizing the impact of such charges.
What are the consequences of a hit-and-run in Michigan?
In Michigan, a hit-and-run can lead to severe penalties, including fines up to $10,000 and imprisonment for up to 15 years if someone is killed. Even in less serious accidents, significant fines and penalties are imposed for leaving the scene. At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, we leverage our extensive experience in personal injury law to guide victims through the legal process and pursue justice aggressively.
How are hit-and-run solved?
Hit-and-run accidents can be challenging to resolve, but our firm leverages extensive investigative resources to identify suspects, including analyzing forensic evidence and collaborating with local authorities. In Michigan, victims may still pursue compensation through their own insurance under uninsured motorist coverage. With over $350 million recovered for clients, we are committed to holding offenders accountable and ensuring victims receive the justice they deserve.
What evidence should be collected in a hit-and-run?
In a hit-and-run case, it is crucial to collect physical evidence from the scene, eyewitness testimony, surveillance footage, and forensic analysis. Our firm’s expertise in personal injury law, including securing over $350 million in settlements, ensures aggressive advocacy to hold the responsible parties accountable. Under Michigan law, gathering comprehensive evidence is key to pursuing justice for victims.
How much is the deductible for a hit-and-run?
In Michigan, uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) coverage is not required, and deductibles for hit-and-run claims can vary depending on your policy, typically ranging from $100 to $1,000. As experts in personal injury law, we help clients navigate these complex situations to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, contact us for aggressive representation and guidance.
Can you settle a hit-and-run case?
Yes, you can settle a hit-and-run case, but it requires identifying the at-fault driver or pursuing compensation through uninsured motorist coverage if available. At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, our expertise in securing over $350 million in settlements enables us to handle these complex cases effectively. We aggressively pursue justice on behalf of our clients, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve under Michigan law.
Does insurance cover hit-and-run in Michigan?
In Michigan, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, mandatory under the state’s no-fault insurance system, typically covers your medical expenses after a hit-and-run accident. For property damage, uninsured motorist coverage can help if included in your policy. At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, we’ve successfully secured compensation for numerous hit-and-run victims, reflecting our commitment to aggressive advocacy and protecting clients’ rights.
Can you sue for a hit-and-run in Michigan?
In Michigan, you may pursue a lawsuit for a hit-and-run accident if the at-fault driver is identified and apprehended. The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C. is highly experienced in advocating for victims of such incidents and has secured over $350 million in settlements for our clients. We work aggressively to hold negligent drivers accountable and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How much is the deductible for a hit and run?
In Michigan, the deductible for a hit-and-run accident varies, typically ranging from $100 to $1,000, depending on your insurance policy. The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm specializes in navigating such claims and can help ensure you maximize your recovery under Michigan’s unique no-fault system. Our firm has successfully secured over $350 million in settlements, reflecting our expertise in advocating for victims of hit-and-run accidents.
How are hit and run solved?
Hit-and-run accidents are challenging to resolve, but collaboration with law enforcement, eyewitness accounts, and forensic evidence can be crucial. At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C., we leverage our extensive experience and resources to investigate these cases meticulously. Our aggressive approach has resulted in significant recoveries for clients impacted by such incidents, further solidifying our reputation in Michigan.
What are the consequences of a hit and run in Michigan?
In Michigan, a hit and run involving injury or death can result in fines up to $10,000 and prison sentences of up to 15 years. Even in less severe accidents, leaving the scene can lead to significant fines and other penalties. At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, we aggressively pursue justice for victims of hit and run accidents, leveraging our extensive experience in securing over $350 million in settlements and verdicts.
Can you sue for a hit and run in Michigan?
In Michigan, you may pursue a lawsuit for a hit-and-run accident if the at-fault driver is identified and found liable for the crash. If the driver remains unidentified, you may still have options through uninsured motorist coverage. At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C., we have extensive experience navigating these complex cases to maximize recovery for our clients.
What Are Common Injuries in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
Victims of hit-and-run crashes often suffer from:
- Whiplash and neck injuries – Caused by sudden impact.
- Broken bones and fractures – Especially in pedestrian or cyclist hit-and-run cases.
- Head and brain injuries – Including concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Spinal cord injuries – Potentially leading to paralysis or chronic pain.
- Soft tissue injuries – Such as torn ligaments or bruising.
- Psychological trauma – Anxiety, PTSD, and emotional distress are common after hit-and-run incidents.
At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C., we fight for victims to receive full compensation for both physical and emotional damages.
What If the Hit-and-Run Driver is Found Later?
If law enforcement identifies the at-fault driver after a hit-and-run accident, you may have several legal options to pursue compensation. If the driver was insured, you can file a claim against their insurance company, which may cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. However, if their insurance coverage is inadequate or nonexistent, you may have the option to sue them personally to recover additional compensation. In cases where the driver acted recklessly or was intoxicated at the time of the accident, the court may also award punitive damages as a way to penalize their negligent behavior.
Can I Get Compensation if the Driver is Never Found?
Yes, even if the hit-and-run driver is not identified, you may still be eligible for compensation through:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage – If you have UM coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, it may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Michigan No-Fault Benefits – Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage provides medical care and lost income regardless of fault.
- Collision Coverage – If you have collision insurance, it may help pay for vehicle repairs.
- Crime Victim Compensation Fund – In some cases, you may qualify for state-funded assistance if the hit-and-run is classified as a criminal act.
How Can a Lawyer Help After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
An attorney plays a crucial role in ensuring you get justice and fair compensation. A hit-and-run lawyer can:
- Take the case to court – If a settlement isn’t fair, a skilled attorney is prepared to litigate aggressively on your behalf.
- Negotiate with your insurance provider – Insurance companies may delay or deny claims, especially if the at-fault driver is unidentified. A lawyer fights to secure your payout.
- Gather critical evidence – Your attorney will work with private investigators, law enforcement, and surveillance footage to help locate the responsible driver.
- Handle the legal process – From filing paperwork to representing you in court if necessary, your lawyer takes care of everything so you can focus on healing.
- Pursue maximum damages – Even if the driver isn’t found, you may be eligible for compensation under uninsured motorist coverage. A lawyer ensures you recover medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress damages.
Don’t let a hit-and-run driver leave you with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Contact The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C. today for a free consultation.
Why Do I Need to Hire a Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney?
Hit-and-run cases are complex because the at-fault driver is often unknown. A hit-and-run attorney helps by:
✔ Investigating the accident to identify the driver, using police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements.
✔ Ensuring you receive compensation under Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance, including medical bills and lost wages.
✔ Filing a lawsuit against any responsible parties, such as bars or establishments that overserved a drunk driver.
✔ Negotiating with your insurer to maximize your settlement and fight against lowball offers.
At The Joseph Dedvukaj Firm, P.C., we have a proven track record of helping hit-and-run victims recover what they deserve.
What Should I Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, follow these steps to protect yourself and strengthen your case:
✔ Call 911 immediately—report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
✔ Document the scene—take photos of your vehicle, injuries, and any debris or skid marks.
✔ Look for witnesses—gather contact information from anyone who saw the crash.
✔ Note important details—if possible, write down the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, color, or license plate.
✔ Seek medical attention—even if you feel fine, injuries may appear later.
✔ Notify your insurance company—Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance may provide benefits even if the at-fault driver isn’t found.
✔ Contact a lawyer—a skilled attorney can help you recover compensation, whether through your own insurance or other legal avenues.