Hit-and-Run Attorney in Wilmington, North Carolina

Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling helpless and uncertain about what to do next. However, it's crucial to know that you have legal recourse available to seek justice and compensation for your damages.  

At Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney, I take pride in representing individuals across Wilmington, North Carolina, and the broader regions including New Hanover County, Pender County, Brunswick County, and Onslow County. My commitment is to stand with you through every step of your legal journey, ensuring your voice is heard and your rights are protected. 

If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run accident, don't hesitate to reach out. Let me guide you through your legal options and work towards securing a positive outcome on your behalf.

The Devastation of Hit-and-Run Injuries

The act of a hit-and-run is not only a crime but a direct attack on the victim’s right to safety, health, and justice. Unfortunately, the Charlotte and Raleigh metropolitan areas have seen a surge in hit-and-runs in the past decade, creating a network of unclaimed victims in need of support. 

When a fellow motorist leaves the scene, the victim is often left in critical condition with no one to point to for responsibility. In addition to adrenaline and fear, critical injuries — including traumatic brain damage, spinal cord trauma, and whiplash — can go untreated, potentially worsening over time. 

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run

North Carolina residents should treat a hit-and-run with the utmost urgency, even when the perpetrator does not. Immediate action is pivotal and includes seeking medical attention, gathering witness statements, preserving evidence, and reporting the incident to law enforcement. 

The Role of Uninsured Motorist Provision

Uninsured motorist provision (UM) coverage directly protects the policyholder in the event they are injured in a hit-and-run caused by an uninsured driver. This coverage might be your financial life raft after a hit-and-run, as it provides coverage when the responsible party cannot be identified or does not carry insurance. 

Seeking Attorney Intervention

Engaging a compassionate and skilled personal injury attorney can be the most pivotal decision you make post-accident. Attorneys are not just paragons of your rights but also the architects of your legal recourse. If you've been a victim of a hit-and-run accident, reach out to my firm today.

Understanding Hit and Runs in North Carolina

North Carolina operates under a "fault" insurance system, which plays a significant role for those involved in hit-and-run accidents. In fault states like North Carolina, the driver who is legally at fault for causing the accident is responsible for covering the damages and injuries resulting from the incident. This means victims of hit-and-run accidents have the right to pursue compensation directly from the at-fault driver once they are identified.  

However, when the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified, victims may turn to their own insurance policies under uninsured motorist (UM) coverage for compensation. Understanding this system is crucial for navigating the aftermath of such accidents, ensuring victims know their rights and the legal avenues that are available for seeking justice and recovery. 

The Consequences for Fleeing the Scene of an Accident

The charge for leaving the scene of a car accident varies depending on the extent of the damage or injury. It can range from a Class H felony to a Class F felony, but either way, it carries serious implications for the perpetrator that could result in substantial fines or possible jail time.

Hit-and-Run FAQs

My clients often ask many questions about their options following an accident. Here are some answers to the frequently asked questions I've received regarding hit-and-run accidents in North Carolina:

Does My Insurance Cover a Hit-and-Run in NC?

North Carolina law mandates that insurance providers offer UM coverage, which applies to hit-and-run accidents. It is essential to review your policy and understand your rights under this provision. 

Is North Carolina a No-Fault State for Accidents? 

Despite neighboring states adopting no-fault accident laws, North Carolina remains a contributory negligence state, which means you cannot recover any damages if you are found to be even partially at fault. I can help you better understand the requirements and restrictions of contributory negligence.

Hit and Runs Without Insurance–What Is My Recourse?

North Carolina's uninsured motorist coverage becomes particularly instrumental in such cases, providing coverage where the at-fault driver cannot. 

How Can Your Injuries Affect Your Claims?

The severity of your injuries and their subsequent treatment can significantly influence the claims process. Seeking immediate medical care is not only important for your health but also to fortify your legal case. 

Hit and Run Attorney in Wilmington, North Carolina

Recovering from a hit-and-run requires tenacity, strategy, and a deep understanding of your rights. While the aftermath can feel hopeless, it is not a story's end. With my dedicated legal support at Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney, I can help clarify your path to justice, help you understand your rights, and pursue fair compensation. I am more than just a legal representative; I am your voice in the pursuit of holding the responsible party accountable.