Hit-and-run accidents can be particularly distressing, leaving you not only dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of a crash but also the uncertainty of not knowing who is responsible. In Missouri, the law is clear: leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, but that doesn’t necessarily make the aftermath any easier to navigate. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Kansas City, KC Car Crash Lawyers are here to guide you through the steps and help you understand your options for pursuing justice and compensation.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident in Missouri?
In Missouri, a hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver causes a crash and leaves the scene without providing their personal details, including their name, contact information, and insurance information. Under Missouri law, it is required for any driver involved in an accident—whether or not they are at fault—to remain at the scene and exchange information with others involved, as well as report the incident to law enforcement if necessary.
When a driver leaves the scene of an accident, they are committing a criminal offense, punishable by significant fines, license suspension, and even jail time in certain cases. However, just because the driver flees, it doesn’t mean you don’t have legal options. KC Car Crash Lawyers can help ensure that you get the compensation you deserve, even if the at-fault driver is not located.
Missouri’s Laws on Hit-and-Run Accidents
Missouri’s laws are designed to encourage drivers to take responsibility for their actions. Here’s what you need to know about hit-and-run incidents in the state:
Criminal Penalties
In Missouri, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime. The severity of the charge depends on the nature of the accident:
- If only property damage occurs, leaving the scene is a misdemeanor.
- If the accident involves injury or death, it becomes a felony, punishable by prison time and substantial fines.
The penalties are more severe when someone is injured or killed in a hit-and-run.
Your Rights After a Hit-and-Run
Even if the at-fault driver leaves the scene, Missouri law still entitles you to recover compensation for your damages through other means, such as uninsured motorist insurance (if available) or a personal injury lawsuit if the driver is located. It’s crucial to understand that your rights remain intact, even if the other driver is unknown.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Missouri law requires drivers to have car insurance, but not all drivers comply. If the driver responsible for your accident cannot be found, you may be able to file a claim with your own insurance company under your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. While Missouri law doesn’t require drivers to have UM coverage, insurers must offer it to you. This coverage can help cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and lost wages if the responsible driver is never identified.
Reporting the Accident
It’s essential that you report the accident to the police immediately. Failing to do so may make it difficult for you to pursue a claim. A police report will help document the accident and create an official record, which can be used later in your case.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Hit-and-Run Accident in Missouri
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, your first priority should always be your safety and well-being. But beyond that, here are the critical steps to follow:
- Call the Police Right Away
Always report the hit-and-run accident to law enforcement. Missouri law requires that you contact the police if the accident results in injury, death, or significant property damage. The police will investigate and file an official report, which could help identify the at-fault driver later on. - Try to Gather Information
If you are able to do so safely, try to gather as many details as possible about the fleeing vehicle. Look for the make, model, color, and license plate number. Even partial information can be helpful in identifying the driver. If there are witnesses to the crash, get their contact details and ask if they can provide information to help the investigation. - Document the Scene
Take photographs of the scene of the accident, your vehicle’s damage, and any visible injuries. The more evidence you can gather, the stronger your case will be. - Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, seek medical attention. Injuries from car accidents can worsen over time, and having a medical record is crucial for supporting your claim. - Notify Your Insurance Company
After you’ve reported the accident to the police, contact your insurance company to report the hit-and-run. Many insurance policies include uninsured motorist coverage, which may be crucial in helping you recover damages if the responsible driver is never located. - Contact KC Car Crash Lawyers
It’s a good idea to consult with an experienced attorney who can help guide you through the process. KC Car Crash Lawyers can help you explore your options, whether it’s working with your insurance company, identifying the at-fault driver, or filing a personal injury lawsuit.
How KC Car Crash Lawyers Can Help in Hit-and-Run Cases
At KC Car Crash Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming a hit-and-run accident can be. Here’s how we can assist you through the process:
- Investigating the Incident
We’ll work with law enforcement to investigate the hit-and-run accident. Our team will gather all available evidence, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and police reports to help identify the responsible party. - Filing Uninsured Motorist Claims
If the at-fault driver is never found, we can assist you in filing a claim with your uninsured motorist insurance. We’ll make sure you get the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and vehicle repairs. - Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to limit payouts, even in valid hit-and-run claims. Our experienced attorneys will negotiate on your behalf to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your damages. - Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If the responsible driver is identified, we can take legal action to pursue a personal injury lawsuit and seek compensation for your injuries, property damage, lost income, and emotional distress.
Contact KC Car Crash Lawyers Today
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Missouri, don’t navigate the legal system alone. Contact KC Car Crash Lawyers at (816) 825-5704 for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your rights, explore your options, and work hard to get you the compensation you deserve.