There is no way to calculate an average settlement for a hit-and-run collision. Not only are all traffic accidents unique, but there are additional considerations when putting a possible settlement value on a hit-and-run crash.
One way to learn how much your collision may be worth is to work with a car accident attorney. Our team can investigate what happened, gather support for your claim, and estimate a fair and just settlement range for your case.
Many Factors Can Affect a Hit-and-Run Accident Settlement
It is impossible to calculate an average settlement amount that could tell you more about your hit-and-run car accident recovery because of the varying factors that influence the value of each case.
When two drivers suffer similar injuries, the cause of the accident or how much it impacts their everyday life may differ significantly.
Some factors that will affect the value of your potential car accident settlement include:
Whether We can Identify the At-Fault Driver
Sadly, some hit-and-run drivers go unidentified. When this occurs, you cannot file an insurance claim against them to hold them liable. While there are alternative ways to seek compensation, this will affect the value of your claim.
Severity of Injuries
If your injuries are severe and permanent, your case will likely be worth more than if you suffered a broken bone but will heal within a few months. Injuries that require surgery, lengthy hospital stays, inpatient rehabilitation, or other extended treatment and care are usually worth more. The most valuable claims generally involve catastrophic injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
Severe injuries can also alter the value of your case by causing you to miss more work and therefore lose more income. If you cannot return to work, you could have a claim for diminished earning capacity, as well.
Other Losses and Expenses Incurred
Compensatory damages depend on the losses and expenses you incurred because of the crash. Examples include:
- Medical bills
- Missed wages
- Car repairs
- Vehicle rental
- Pain and suffering
- Future losses and expenses
Additional Damages the Jury may Award
In some cases, juries award punitive damages in hit-and-run cases. This is rare but could dramatically increase the value of your case if this occurs. Punitive damages penalize the liable party instead of providing compensation to cover the costs the victim incurred.
For a free legal consultation, call (337) 777-7777
You may have options if the Police did not Identify the Hit-and-Run Driver
In some situations, the police and our team will not be able to identify the driver who hit you and left the scene. This will prevent you from seeking a payout in the way you would with most traffic accidents—by filing a liability insurance claim against the at-fault motorist.
However, there are still options. They include:
Filing an Uninsured Motorist Insurance Claim
Most drivers in Louisiana carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Under RS 22:1295, all auto liability insurance policies come with this coverage unless the policyholder opts out of it in writing.
If the police do not identify the driver responsible for your crash, you can pursue a claim based on your UM coverage. This could allow you to recover monetary damages for your treatment, lost income, and other damages up to your policy limits. The policy limits for UM coverage generally match the limits of your auto liability policy.
Considering other ways to Pay for Your Injuries
If you opted out of your uninsured motorist policy, you may be able to pay some or all of your expenses through other means. Examples include:
- Using health insurance to pay for treatment of your injuries, minus your deductible and copayments
- Filing a claim based on your auto collision coverage to repair or replace your damaged vehicle
An attorney from our firm may be able to help you file a UM claim or identify other options for covering the costs associated with your crash.
Learn more about Your Options
Our Louisiana law firm provides free consultations. You can discuss your case with our team and learn more about your rights and options for recovery.
Working with one of our attorneys will allow you to focus on your injuries while they handle:
- Building your case
- Calculating a fair settlement value for your damages
- Navigating the claims process and settlement negotiations
- Seeking financial recovery for your expenses and losses
- Representing your best interests
Deadlines are short for filing car accident lawsuits in Louisiana. Per CC §3492, victims generally only have up to one year to sue. You could have less time based on the details of your case.
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
Speak with the Attorneys at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers about Your Case Right Away
You can discuss your case and next steps for free today with a team member from Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers. We represent Louisiana car accident victims, including those hurt in hit-and-run accidents.
Call now to get started.
Call or text (337) 777-7777 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
