773-365-0040
If you have been the victim of a hit and run accident in Chicago, you face a challenging legal situation. If you require legal representation for a hit and run, call (773) 365-0040 to schedule a free consultation. We will aggressively pursue the compensation you’re owed following a hit-and-run accident. Read on to learn:
- More information about hit and runs
- How Shea Law Group handles hit and run cases
- The answers to frequently asked questions about hit and run accidents
Chicago Hit and Run Statistics
The statistics regarding hit-and-run accidents in Chicago underscore the critical role filled by personal injury attorneys at Shea Law Group:
- In 2021, Chicago experienced 37,226 hit-and-run crashes
- These incidents resulted in 36 fatalities and 4,807 injuries
- Less than 500 arrests were made in connection with these hit-and-run accidents.
Hit-and-run accidents remain among the most prevalent and hazardous types of car accidents in Chicago. Since so few hit and run drivers are arrested, many victims seeking justice turn to personal injury lawyers.
Identifying Hit and Run Drivers
If the driver who harmed you was never apprehended, we will attempt to identify them. Here’s how:
- Meticulous Evidence Collection: Careful gathering and evaluation of physical evidence
- Extensive Witness Interviews: Thorough interviews with potential witnesses
- Surveillance Assessment: Scrutiny of footage from nearby cameras
- Law Enforcement Cooperation: Close collaboration with police to investigate leads
How Our Chicago Hit and Run Attorneys Obtain Settlements
At Shea Law Group, we guide our clients through two primary avenues for obtaining compensation:
- Claims Against the Identified Driver: If the hit-and-run driver was identified, we can pursue a claim against their insurance company. This is similar to standard car accident cases.
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Claims: If the driver remains unidentified (or is uninsured), we help clients secure compensation through their own insurance providers.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage in Illinois
Illinois law mandates that all auto insurance policies include Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage. The minimum required coverage is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. This coverage serves a dual purpose:
- It protects you when hit by uninsured or underinsured motorists
- It provides coverage in hit-and-run scenarios
Your insurance company must meet its obligations in a hit and run accident. However, insurers don’t always have your best interests in mind.
Navigating the Claims Process
Despite UM coverage, insurance companies may still attempt to minimize payouts. To push back against this, we will:
- Analyze your insurance policy to understand your coverage
- Manage the filing and processing of claims with your insurance provider
- Challenge lowball settlement offers to ensure you receive fair compensation
- Contest denied claims through appropriate channels
- Ensure you receive the full extent of benefits to which you are entitled under your policy
Types of Hit and Run Compensation
While securing compensation in hit and run cases can be challenging, our attorneys diligently pursue all available avenues, including:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future medical needs related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages: Immediate and potential future lost earnings.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for emotional trauma.
- Property Damage: Full compensation for vehicle repair or replacement.
Hit and Run FAQ
What immediate actions should I take following a hit and run accident?
After a hit and run accident, you should:
- Prioritize your safety
- Contact emergency services
- Consult with a hit and run attorney in Chicago
Is compensation possible if the hit and run driver is not located?
Yes. If the hit and run driver is not located, our lawyers will pursue compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a hit and run claim in Chicago?
In Illinois, the general statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit is two years from the accident date. However, it is crucial to initiate the legal process as soon as possible.
How does a hit and run case differ from a standard vehicular accident case?
Hit and run cases present unique challenges in identifying the at-fault driver, gathering evidence, and securing compensation. These complexities often necessitate specialized legal strategies.
Contact Our Hit and Run Accident Attorneys
If you have been the victim of a hit and run accident in Chicago, act quickly. We encourage you to contact Shea Law Group for a free, no-obligation consultation. The sooner you contact us, the more effectively we can protect your rights and construct a compelling case on your behalf.
