Two police officers from Portsmouth sustained injuries during a hit-and-run collision on the morning of Sunday, August 11th. A representative from the Portsmouth Police Department stated that both officers were hit by a driver at about 2:00 a.m. in the 4040th block of Missy Elliott Boulevard. Although both officers were injured, one had more serious injuries and was transported to an area medical for immediate treatment. According to responding police, the driver of the striking vehicle left the scene but was later pulled over on the interstate. No additional details are available as this accident remains under investigation.
The majority of vehicle collisions are the result of willful misconduct, recklessness, or negligence. Although, generally speaking, negligence is not often accompanied by criminal consequences, at-fault motorists tend to worry about the possible consequences of their actions once they have caused an accident. This can be due to not having a valid driver’s license, driver intoxication, lack of proper insurance coverage, or the anticipated degree of injuries or damages. When a driver flees the scene of an accident, it becomes a hit-and-run.
Hit-and-run accidents can involve two or more motor vehicles, a vehicle and a pedestrian, or a vehicle and a bike. In Virginia, it is against the law to leave an accident scene. Unfortunately, this law does not appear to be especially effective when it comes to deterring at-fault drivers from fleeing in an attempt to avoid liability. Hit-and-run collisions are particularly stressful for victims since they usually incorporate uncertainty regarding who is liable for damages and how they can be located. In situations like this, it is absolutely imperative that you contact a reputable car accident attorney as quickly as possible.
Since 1985, the skilled Portsmouth car accident attorneys at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp have been helping those injured in hit-and-run accidents pursue justice and fair compensation. Schedule your free consultation right away to discuss your potential case with an experienced lawyer.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Those involved in a hit-and-run accident in the Portsmouth area can increase their odds of collecting damages by taking specific steps, including:
- Staying Calm: While following and confronting the fleeing driver might be tempting, this is not a smart idea. It will only intensify the situation and increase your odds of additional injuries and damages. Keep calm and pull your vehicle off the roadway as soon as you can safely do so.
- Notifying the Police: As soon as possible, call the police and request officers and paramedics to the scene. The responding officer will create a formal crash report, so while you are waiting for them to arrive, take the opportunity to jot down everything you can recall about the incident.
- Keeping a Record: In that same vein, it is also a good idea to keep your own written record of any information you have about the driver who struck you, including as much of the license plate as you can recall, the make and model of their vehicle, along with any other identifying factors you remember. You should also write down the names and contact details of any bystanders who witnessed the incident.
- Taking Photos: If you can safely do so, use your smartphone to take videos and/or pictures of any obvious injuries, damage to your vehicle, and anything in the immediate area you think may be important. This type of evidence often proves useful in determining liability should the driver be identified.
- Seeking Medical Treatment: Even if you feel okay and think you managed to escape injury, you should seek professional medical treatment right away. Not only can this help ensure you did not sustain any invisible injuries, but it will also create a record of how the accident was the direct cause of your injuries.
- Consulting With an Attorney: Never try to handle a hit-and-run accident claim on your own. Work with a skilled Portsmouth car accident attorney who knows the law and can ensure that you know and understand all of your legal options.
In Virginia, hit-and-run accident victims are often able to pursue financial compensation for their property damage, medical expenses, and pain and suffering through their personal Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage. If you are not sure whether or not you have this form of coverage, our attorneys can examine your policy and advise you on what to do.
Virginia Car Insurance
Auto insurance coverage works differently in Virginia for a hit-and-run accident than one where the at-fault driver stays on the scene. Depending on your car insurance coverage, your policy likely covers any damages caused by a hit-and-run driver. Virginia driving laws require every driver to carry a minimum of liability insurance. This includes coverage for property damage and bodily injury. It is important to keep in mind that liability coverage only comes into play if and when the fleeing driver is identified.
In the event that the at-fault driver is not successfully identified, you might be able to file an insurance claim with your own insurer against your uninsured/underinsured motorist policy. In Virginia, UM/UIM coverage is not mandatory, but most insurance companies do offer it as an add-on. This type of coverage can help cover injuries and other damages caused by a hit-and-run driver up to your policy limits. It can also provide coverage in hit-and-run collisions where the striking driver is eventually identified but does not have any or sufficient insurance.
After being involved in a hit-and-run crash, it is essential to reach out to your insurer as quickly as possible to notify them of the incident and ensure that you understand your options. Next, you need to contact a skilled Portsmouth car accident attorney who can ensure your rights are protected and help you pursue financial compensation for your injuries.
All We Do Is Injury Law
If you sustained injuries in a Portsmouth hit-and-run accident through no fault of your own, one of the experienced Portsmouth car accident attorneys at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp will be able to help. For instance, in one recent case, we achieved a $1.1 million settlement for a teenage student who was hit by a tractor-trailer driver while he was waiting to cross the road. With more than 70 combined years of legal experience, training, and knowledge, the personal injury firm of Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp has the resources, skill, and talent required to secure a successful result in your hit-and-run case. Call (833) 997-1774 or reach out via our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.