Article Summary
- Hit-and-run accidents are common in Arizona, and the state ranks third in the nation for hit-and-run fatalities.
- Damages and injuries from hit-and-run accidents can be serious and victims have legal options for compensation.
- Although many hit-and-run cases go unsolved, the support of a personal injury attorney helps victims understand all of their legal options.
Hit-and-run car accidents are not only common in Arizona, but they can be deadly. In fact, the state ranks third in the nation for its rate of hit-and-run fatalities. In 2024 alone, the state saw 74 fatalities from hit-and-run collisions.
That data alone illustrates how serious hit-and-run accidents are, whether they involve a moving vehicle, a parked vehicle, a pedestrian or a cyclist. The damage from a hit-and-run accident can range from minor property damage to serious injuries — and of course, fatalities.
Unfortunately, only a fraction of hit-and-run accidents are ever solved. Law enforcement faces distinct challenges when investigating these types of accidents due to a lack of evidence and witnesses, and the fact that the driver at fault flees the scene before being identified. Of course, accidents that have the most serious outcomes, from injuries to fatalities, often receive more investigative resources to improve the chances of holding the driver at fault responsible.
Navigating a hit-and-run injury claim can be challenging without proper representation. An Arizona personal injury lawyer, like those who work at Torgenson Law, can guide people through the hit-and-run accident claim process.
What To Do After A Hit-And-Run
The most common type of hit-and-run accident is one that damages a parked car. It’s easy to visualize the situation, where a driver makes contact with someone else’s car in a parking lot and leaves before anyone notices. Beyond parking lots, hit-and-run accidents with parked cars happen to cars that are parallel parked on streets, near or in driveways, or at apartment complexes or hotels.
Once a hit-and-run happens, there are a few important steps to take. First, if injuries are involved, seek medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get them checked out and to get treatment documented for any potential future injury claims. It’s also important to report the accident to the police. An official record of the accident, preferably with information about the fleeing vehicle, will also be a vital piece of documentation for any future personal injury claim.
While still at the scene of the accident, those involved should do what they can to collect evidence. That may include witness statements, if there were any people who saw what happened, as well as photos, video and documentation of vehicle debris left behind. This is also the point where a personal injury attorney could help.
Working With A Hit And Run Lawyer
The trusted, Phoenix personal injury lawyers at Torgenson Law understand Arizona hit and run laws and can help determine how to pursue a personal injury claim. In addition, the experienced team knows how to get ahold of additional evidence, from surveillance footage to accident reconstruction. And if the driver of the vehicle can’t be located, a personal injury attorney can help someone pursue compensation from a hit-and-run accident through other legal options, including uninsured motorist coverage.
No one should navigate hit-and-run cases alone. The team at Torgenson Law is here to support you through this process, ensuring your best interests are represented. If you or a loved one have been injured in a hit-and-run accident, reach out to our team today.
No pressure, no upfront costs, just answers from a legal team that takes your recovery personally.
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