Gathering Evidence in a Hit and Run Case

Several kinds of evidence can tremendously impact the outcome of a hit and run accident case. Testimony from the victim and any available eyewitnesses can be of paramount significance. If the accident occurred near a place of business or a traffic light with a camera, an experienced attorney can acquire video footage of the crash from surveillance equipment. This is why contacting a lawyer early in your case may be important. Such footage may be overwritten or lost as time goes on.

Unfortunately, sometimes, there is a shortage of dependable evidence available. In these cases, recovering from the victim’s insurance company may be necessary. Seasoned legal representation can help plaintiffs navigate the complex wording of their insurance policies to argue for an appropriate payout. You can speak with a Lafayette personal injury lawyer to help you pursue compensation.

Uninsured Motorist Insurance Coverage

When the offending driver cannot be found, the victim of a hit and run accident may need to recover compensation from their insurance carrier. In Louisiana, it is mandatory that auto insurance policies have uninsured motorist coverage, though the customer can reject this coverage in writing if they so choose. Uninsured motorist coverage applies to accidents in which the offending driver does not have insurance, and the total amount of such coverage in a policy must equal or exceed the liability coverage in that policy.

Sometimes, insurance companies may refuse to pay compensation or offer significantly less than the value of a victim’s damages. In these cases, the best course of action is to retain a hit and run accident lawyer in Lafayette, LA, who has previously handled these kinds of cases.

With their help, an injured plaintiff may be able to present a solid case in court and recover the money they need from their insurance carrier to get their life back in order.

Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

Get a Free Case Evaluation

What Happens If They Eventually Capture the Hit and Run Driver

The insurance issues surrounding hit and run automobile accident losses can be complicated. Let’s say you already paid the deductible on your automobile insurance policy, and your insurance company paid some of your losses.

Afterward, law enforcement captures the hit and run driver. What happens to the money that you and your insurance company paid? Typically, you will get reimbursed for your deductible, and your insurance company will get reimbursed for the money they paid by the hit and run driver’s insurance company.

Damages in Hit and Run Accident Injury Claims

Most negligent drivers either turn themselves in or get caught by the police. When that happens, and the hit and run driver gets charged with the accident, the injured people can seek monetary damages for their losses.

There is no predetermined dollar amount that the victims of hit and run collisions can automatically get for their injuries. Every car accident injury case is different. The amount of monetary damages you can pursue will depend on the unique facts of your situation. Here are some of the common types of compensation people can be awarded in these cases:

  • Lost income: If you missed paychecks when you could not work because of your injuries, you have a financial loss. This category can include lost wages, salary, self-employment, and other types of regular income. Also, if you cannot make as much money as before because of your injuries, you have future lost wages for your decreased earning capacity.
  • Medical expenses: The cost of the medical care you need for your wounds is usually recoverable. From the ambulance and emergency room to the doctors, surgery, hospital, physical therapy, and prescription drugs, your medical expenses can be a part of your injury claim. Keep your medical records for evidence.
  • Property damage: You may be entitled to compensation if your vehicle or other pieces of your property were damaged in a hit and run incident. Damage to vehicles can usually be recovered with ease.
  • Pain and suffering: Getting your medical expenses paid is good, but it does not address what you suffered due to the accident and your injuries. Pain and suffering damages are for the physical discomfort and emotional distress of the accident, in addition to your medical bills. Emotional trauma is real, and you’re not alone.
  • Other intangible losses: You might have additional non-economic losses like disfigurement from scars, loss of enjoyment of life, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

These are merely a few damages that a person might pursue after getting injured in a hit and run accident. Contact our personal injury law firm for more information about gaining fair compensation in an accident lawsuit.

How You Can Afford to Hire a Lafayette, LA, Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

You do not have to be wealthy to have our law firm of personal injury lawyers represent you in your hit and run accident injury claim. These cases fall within the category of personal injury claims. We handle these and other personal injury claims on a contingency fee basis.

With this fee arrangement, you won’t have to pay any upfront legal fees. We work tirelessly on your case until the very end. At that point, we receive a portion of the fair settlement proceeds or jury award. In other words, we do not get paid until we win your case.

Are Punitive Damages Available for Hit and Run Accidents?

Punitive damages are used to punish civil offenders for grossly negligent behavior and are a category of damages wholly distinct from economic and non-economic damages. Intended to act as a disincentive for similar future behavior, these damages are only available in very limited circumstances in Louisiana. A common example of a case that could result in the accident victim being awarded punitive damages is a drunk driver accident that results in serious physical injury.

Since punitive damages are limited under Louisiana law, they do not apply to most hit and run pedestrian accidents. However, you should still contact a pedestrian accident lawyer in Lafayette to explore your options for financial recovery. Anyone who thinks their case involves extreme negligence, reckless disregard for the safety of others, or an intentional act should discuss the possibility of punitive damages with their legal counsel.

branded accent

Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. He...

Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. Her communication is clear, and she truly cares about delivering results. I couldn’t recommend her more highly!

M
Mimi

Lake Charles

Eryn Laughlin is a good employee, we love her!

a
anonymous

Car Accident

I am very impressed with Jillie Boone’s professionalism and dedication. She demonstrates excellent communication skills, strong attention to det...

I am very impressed with Jillie Boone’s professionalism and dedication. She demonstrates excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, and a high level of reliability. Jillie consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that everything is handled efficiently and with care. Her knowledge and work ethic make her an outstanding professional, and I would highly recommend her!

j
jazlynn meece

Baton Rouge

Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working ...

Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working with. Her attention to detail is unmatched.
She catches things most people would overlook, and she always makes sure every document is perfect before it leaves her hands.
Beyond her incredible skill set, Bridgette is also kind, reliable, and a true team player. She communicates clearly, stays organized under pressure, and goes above and beyond to make sure clients and attorneys alike feel supported.
You can tell she genuinely cares about her work and the people she helps.
If you're lucky enough to have Bridgette as your paralegal, you're in the best possible hands. Five stars isn't enough for someone this exceptional!

B
Brittany Johnson

Alexandria

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs...

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs. Courtney. I spoke with her multiple times, and each time she was patient and answered every question I had. She made me feel like I was the only client. Grateful for her and Laborde Earls!

T
Tracie M.

Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated T...

Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated Toxic Water Claim. Mr. John Chaillot has been instrumental in advising me on documentation, timelines, and all matters pertaining to my case. A true professional and appreciated. Thank you.

S
Stephan C.

I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other thing...

I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other things. Her detailed skills are very delightful. She goes out of her way to check on us, make sure we don't have any questions, and she is always on point. She moves very quick and always goes above and beyond for us to make sure we understand the process. I am so glad I ran into Laborde Earles and Alexis. Everyone will know about this company for sure and Alexis

R
R.S.

Lafayette

Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is ...

Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is truly a blessing!

T
Tori E.

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) whic...

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) which is always a breath of fresh air to be around someone who is genuine. She's a doll and anyone who comes into contact with her is a lucky one!

H
Hannah Johnson

Baton Rouge

Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews

Read More Testimonials

Get in Touch with a Lafayette Hit and Run Accident Attorney

If you experience a hit and run accident, there are several options for recovery that you could discuss with a Lafayette, LA, hit and run accident lawyer with Laborde Earles today. Contacting a personal injury attorney at our law office early on could help greatly with the search for evidence regarding the identity of the at-fault driver.

Just because the driver fled the accident scene does not mean you are barred from the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free initial consultation to get started on getting legal advice for your case.

View More Articles Trusted Voices Sharing What Matters

closeup of a car with a crashed hood

Blog What Are My Options After a Collision with an Uninsured Driver?

Uninsured driving remains a serious issue, with an estimated 15% of drivers nationwide uninsured. If an uninsured driver hits you in Louisia...

Read Full Article

FAQ What Is the Leading Cause of Intersection Accidents?

Failing to stop at a red light, trying to run a yellow light, and not yielding the right of way to another driver are some of the most commo...

Read Full FAQ
woman checking out the damage on her red car

Blog 100 Deadliest Days of Summer: The Risks of Teen Driving Accidents

The summer months can be some of the most dangerous on the road, especially for teen drivers. The time between Memorial Day and Labor Day is...

Read Full Article

FAQ Are Intersections Dangerous?

Intersections can prove to be one of the most dangerous places on the road for drivers. Making split-second decisions and executing them saf...

Read Full FAQ
closeup of a car with a crashed hood

Blog Louisiana’s New Comparative Fault Law (2026): What the 51% Rule Means for Your Compensation

If you were injured in Louisiana, a recent change in the law could determine whether you recover compensation or nothing at all. As of Janua...

Read Full Article

FAQ How Do You Avoid Intersection Accidents On I-10?

Staying alert while driving is one of the best ways to prevent an accident. Driving is one of the main ways we commute to and from work, sch...

Read Full FAQ
woman in neck brace talking to lawyer

Blog Louisiana Sets New Two-Year Statute of Limitations for Tort Claims

Now that Louisiana has set a new two-year statute of limitations on tort claims, injury victims will have more time to take legal action for...

Read Full Article

FAQ Who’s Liable if a Student Driver Is Involved in an Accident?

If a student driver is involved in an accident, they may be held liable for damages. Depending on the situation, the driver‘s parents and ot...

Read Full FAQ
law statue

Blog Digger Earles Honored With Appointment to GLP-1 Plaintiff Steering Committee

In a significant victory for plaintiffs in the high-stakes multi-district GLP-1 litigation, renowned Lafayette personal injury lawyer Digger...

Read Full Article
man with broken arm and neck brace

FAQ Do You Have to Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?

When you’ve been in a crash, there’s a lot on your mind. One thing many people wonder is, “Do I have to talk to the other driver’s insurance...

Read Full FAQ
big rig car accident

Blog $1,400,000 Settlement for Alexandria Woman in Car Accident

When it comes to being injured in a car accident, choosing the right attorney can be the difference between getting $1,400,000 in 9 months i...

Read Full Article

FAQ What to Do if Your Teenager Is Involved in an Accident

If your teenager is involved in an accident, the first steps are to ensure their safety, document the scene, and report the incident to auth...

Read Full FAQ

Guidance you can trust, from people who actually know.

View All FAQs View All Articles

Our Locations Find Your Local Office

Get Legal Help Today Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

25+ Attorneys Collaboration on every case

Call Anytime Speak to our local team 24/7

(337) 777-7777
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
Send Message
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (337) 777-7777.