Tampa Hit and Run Lawyer

Hit-and-run accidents in Tampa occur when a driver causes an accident and then leaves the scene before stopping to exchange insurance information with the other involved driver(s). There are many reasons why a driver may leave the scene of an accident, including lack of insurance coverage and fear of repercussions.

Hancock Injury Attorneys has extensive experience handling accident cases in Hillsborough County, including car crashes, motorcycle accidents, and truck accidents, giving us the local knowledge needed to advocate for our clients. If you sustained injuries in a hit-and-run accident that took place in Tampa, you are not alone. Our knowledgeable Tampa hit-and-run lawyers can thoroughly investigate your accident circumstances, file a claim on your behalf, and begin negotiating for the compensation you deserve.

We are committed to providing personal service and a full range of legal services for accident victims, ensuring each client receives individualized attention and support throughout their case. For a free case evaluation and free consultation with a knowledgeable hit-and-run lawyer in Tampa, please call us at (813) 915-1110 or contact us online to learn more.

Why Choose Hancock Injury Attorneys for your hit and run accident?

In hit-and-run accidents, injury victims may suffer debilitating or significant injuries, incur high medical costs, and be left to bear the burden alone. As experienced personal injury lawyers, Hancock Injury Attorneys provide legal assistance to those involved in serious accidents, including clients who have suffered serious harm or life-changing injuries.

Our personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients do not pay upfront legal fees and only pay if they recover compensation. We are also committed to supporting family members in wrongful death cases, ensuring they receive compassionate and determined legal support.

At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we pride ourselves on our personal service and dedication to each client. Our lawyers have 35+ years of experience representing injured clients in the Tampa area and a strong track record of successfully settling and litigating personal injury cases.

How Much Money Will I Receive for a Tampa Hit and Run Accident Case?

If you’ve suffered an injury in a hit-and-run accident in Tampa, Florida, you may be entitled to various types of compensation.

In this situation, it is important to understand your auto insurance policy and its components, such as Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which you are required to carry by state law as the owner of a registered vehicle. You can file a claim under your PIP policy or uninsured motorist policy. PIP benefits only cover 80 percent of your accident-related medical expenses up to the limit of your policy, which in most cases is just $10,000. PIP coverage in Florida is limited in this way, so it may not cover all your losses.

In Florida, you can seek additional benefits from your own insurance company if you have purchased uninsured motorist or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. In the case of a hit-and-run accident, your insurance company is still required to compensate you under Florida's no-fault insurance system. Under this system, after a crash, you turn to your PIP coverage first to cover your accident-related expenses, no matter who is at-fault.

The total amount you can receive for a hit-and-run accident depends on the extent of your injuries, the type of claim filed, damage to your property, and the overall effects on your life. Here’s an overview of the types of compensation you can recover:

• Medical Expenses: This includes all costs related to treating your injuries from the accident. It covers hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, prescription medications, and physical therapy. If you need ongoing medical treatment or special equipment, those expenses are also included.
• Lost earnings: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for the income you’ve lost. This covers not only the time you missed while recovering but also any future lost income if your injuries have a long-term effect on your ability to work and make money.
• Pain and Suffering: This type of compensation is intended to address the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured due to the accident. It also considers the overall effect on your quality of life, including any ongoing pain or mental health issues.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the accident has severely limited your ability to enjoy the daily activities or hobbies you previously engaged in, you may be eligible to receive compensation for this loss.
• Punitive Damages: In certain cases, if the hit-and-run driver’s behavior was particularly egregious or reckless, you may be awarded punitive damages. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and discourage such behavior in the future.

Compensation in personal injury cases generally includes both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible losses like medical expenses and lost wages, while non-economic damages compensate for intangible losses such as pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Under Florida's modified comparative negligence rule, you can still recover damages if you are found to be less than 50% at fault for the accident. Additionally, Florida law gives most accident victims two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit.

In Florida, if the hit-and-run driver is not found, you may need to rely on your uninsured motorist insurance to recover some costs. At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we can navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to recover.

Common Locations for Hit and Run Accidents in Tampa

In Tampa, Florida, hit-and-run accidents can happen anywhere, but there are some locations where they are more common. Tampa car crashes and Tampa car accidents occur frequently in these areas, often involving various types of motor vehicles. Our firm has extensive experience handling Tampa car accident cases in these locations:

• Busy Intersections: High-traffic intersections, like those at major crossroads or near popular shopping areas, are common places for Tampa car accidents and car crashes involving different types of motor vehicles. Drivers often speed through these intersections or fail to stop, leading to collisions and, in some cases, leaving the scene.
• Major Highways and Expressways: Areas like Interstate 275 and Interstate 4, which see a lot of commuters and through traffic, are hotspots for Tampa car crashes. On these fast-moving roads, drivers may be more likely to flee the scene if they’re involved in a crash with another Tampa car or other motor vehicles.
• Downtown Tampa: The busy streets of Downtown Tampa, especially around major venues like the Benchmark International Arena and the Tampa Convention Center, are prone to car accidents and hit-and-run incidents. The dense traffic and numerous parking lots increase the chances of accidents occurring.
• Residential Neighborhoods: Hit-and-run accidents also happen in residential areas, particularly where streets are narrow or poorly lit. Drivers may hit parked Tampa cars or back out of driveways without checking properly, leading to accidents and fleeing the scene.
• Parking Lots: Large parking lots, such as those at malls, grocery stores, or sports venues, are common sites for Tampa car crashes and hit-and-run incidents involving all types of motor vehicles. These areas often see a lot of vehicle movement and can be places where collisions happen as drivers maneuver in tight spaces.
• School Zones: There can be a higher risk of Tampa car accidents and hit-and-run crashes around schools, especially during drop-off and pick-up times. The combination of children, parents, and heavy traffic can lead to collisions and drivers leaving the scene.

Types of Tampa Hit and Run Collisions

In Tampa, Florida, hit-and-run accidents can be categorized into several common types. Accident lawyers, car accident attorneys, and personal injury lawyers play a crucial role in handling these accident cases, helping victims navigate the legal process and pursue fair compensation for their injuries. Here’s a look at some of the most frequent categories of hit-and-run crashes:

• Rear-End Collisions: These occur when one vehicle hits another from behind. In many cases, the driver who causes the accident may choose to flee, especially if they’re driving erratically or without insurance. Rear-end collisions are common in heavy traffic situations or when drivers are distracted. Soft tissue injuries and minor injuries are frequent outcomes, even in what may seem like less severe accidents.
• Side-Impact Collisions: Also known as T-bone accidents, these happen when one vehicle crashes directly into the side of another. The driver who hits the side of another vehicle may flee the scene if they’re speeding or trying to avoid legal consequences. These accidents often occur at intersections or when one driver runs a red light. Victims can suffer soft tissue injuries and minor injuries, which should not be overlooked.
• Parking Lot Accidents: Vehicles may collide in parking lots while maneuvering in tight spaces. Drivers who hit parked cars or other vehicles in these areas may leave the scene to avoid dealing with the aftermath, especially if the damage is minor or if they don’t want to face potential legal issues. Even minor injuries and soft tissue injuries can result from these types of collisions.
• Hit and Run Pedestrian Accidents: These involve a vehicle striking a pedestrian and then fleeing the scene. These accidents can happen at crosswalks or on sidewalks. Drivers involved in such accidents may flee due to panic or because they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Hit and Run Bicycle Accidents: Cyclists are vulnerable to hit-and-run accidents when a vehicle strikes them and leaves the scene. These accidents often happen when drivers are inattentive or when they fail to notice cyclists on the road.
• Sideswipe Collisions: These accidents occur when one vehicle brushes against another while traveling in the same or opposite direction. In such cases, the driver who causes the sideswipe may leave the scene, especially if they’re at fault and don’t want to deal with the consequences. Soft tissue injuries and minor injuries are also common in these scenarios.

In any hit-and-run accident, it’s important to report the incident to the police and provide as much information as possible. This can help authorities track down the responsible driver and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Most Common Injuries in a Tampa Hit and Run Accident

In a hit-and-run accident in Tampa, Florida, individuals can suffer from a range of physical and mental injuries. Hit-and-run accidents can cause significant injuries and serious harm, affecting injury victims both physically and emotionally.

Common physical injuries include fractures, head trauma, soft tissue injuries, and minor injuries, which may seem less severe at first but can have lasting effects. Serious accidents can result in long-term or life-altering consequences for injury victims, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or other significant injuries that require extensive medical care and ongoing support.

Physical Injuries:

• Cuts and Bruises: Contact with the vehicle or debris from the accident can cause lacerations and bruising. While these injuries may seem minor, they can sometimes lead to infections or long-term scarring.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: The strong force of a hit-and-run accident can cause bones to break or fracture. Commonly affected areas include the arms, ribs, pelvis, and legs.
• Whiplash: This is a common injury in rear-end collisions. Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jolted forward and backward, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the neck.
• Concussions and Other Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): A sudden jolt or impact from behind can cause the brain to move inside the skull, leading to concussions or even more severe TBIs. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, and memory issues.

Mental Injuries:

• Anxiety and Depression: The stress of being involved in a hit-and-run accident can lead to anxiety and depression. Individuals may feel overwhelmed by the accident's aftermath, including dealing with insurance and medical treatments.
• Fear and Avoidance: Victims may develop a fear of driving or being near traffic, leading them to avoid driving altogether or experience panic attacks when driving.

Investigating the Accident Scene in a Tampa Hit and Run

When a Tampa hit-and-run accident occurs, a thorough investigation of the accident scene is essential for building a strong personal injury claim. The evidence collected in the immediate aftermath can make a significant difference in helping accident victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other losses. A skilled run accident lawyer understands the importance of gathering as much evidence as possible, including witness statements, photographs, and any available video footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras.

In hit-and-run cases, identifying the at-fault driver can be challenging. However, even if the responsible party cannot be located, accident victims still have options under Florida law. All drivers are required to carry personal injury protection (PIP), which can help cover medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. Unfortunately, PIP coverage may not be enough to fully address the needs of those who have suffered catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries, or in cases involving wrongful death.

This is where an experienced law firm specializing in personal injury cases becomes invaluable. Personal injury attorneys can guide you through the complex process of filing a hit-and-run claim, working with your own insurance company to ensure you receive the benefits you are entitled to.

If the at-fault driver is later identified, your legal team can help you pursue a personal injury lawsuit to seek additional compensation. In some situations, other parties, such as an employer or a vehicle manufacturer, may also be held liable, depending on the circumstances of the auto accident.

Hit and run crashes in Tampa can result in severe injuries, significant property damage, and emotional trauma for accident victims and their families. Prompt medical attention is crucial, not only for your health but also to document your injuries for your claim. Working with a reputable law office ensures that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of securing fair compensation from insurance companies or through legal action.

Fighting the Insurance Company in a Tampa Hit and Run Accident Case

If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident in Tampa, Florida, fighting the insurance company can be challenging. Insurance companies often have legal teams working to protect their interests, so it’s crucial to have experienced car accident attorneys or accident lawyers handle negotiations on your behalf. Insurance companies may offer low settlement amounts, but having legal assistance ensures you receive fair treatment and the compensation you deserve.

At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we provide a full range of legal services to help you through every step of your case, including handling insurance disputes and complex evidence.

Here’s how we can help on your behalf:

• PIP Insurance Claims: In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance is mandatory. PIP covers medical expenses and lost earnings up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. We can file a PIP claim by gathering all of the necessary documentation, such as medical records and proof of lost income, to ensure you receive the maximum benefits. We can handle the paperwork and negotiations with the insurance company to make sure your claim is processed correctly and promptly.
• Uninsured Motorist (UM) Claims: If the hit-and-run driver is not identified or doesn’t have insurance, you can file a claim under your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. UM insurance helps cover your damages when the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. We can help by reviewing your UM policy, collecting evidence, and negotiating with your insurance company to obtain the fair compensation you deserve. This includes handling any disputes and ensuring that your claim is not unfairly denied or undervalued.
• Legal Representation: We offer experienced legal representation to ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process. This involves negotiating with insurance companies, filing legal documents, and, if necessary, taking your case to court. Our accident lawyers and car accident attorneys are dedicated to fighting for fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other accident-related losses.

Steps to Take after a Hit and Run Collision in Tampa

After a hit-and-run accident in Tampa, Florida, taking the following steps is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve:

• Call 911 and Seek Medical Attention: After a car accident in Tampa, you should call 911 to report the crash and seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Prompt medical care is important for your health and for preserving your legal case.
• Gather Contact and Insurance Information: If possible, collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved in the accident.
• Document the Scene and Gather Witness Information: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. Gather names and contact details of any witnesses to strengthen your claim.
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Notify your own insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurance provider needs to know about the accident to start processing your claim, especially if you have uninsured motorist coverage.
• Complete Your Medical Care: Follow your doctor’s advice and complete all recommended treatments. Proper medical documentation is vital for supporting your claim and ensuring you’re fully compensated for your injuries.
• Gather Relevant Documentation: Collect all evidence related to the accident, including medical records, repair bills, and any photos of the scene and vehicle damage. Keep track of any lost earnings and expenses incurred due to the accident. This documentation will help to substantiate your claim.
• Consult Tampa Attorneys for Legal Guidance: Tampa attorneys can provide guidance on these steps and offer legal assistance to help you navigate the claims process.

Taking these steps promptly and thoroughly will help strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Talk with an Experienced Tampa Hit and Run Accident Attorney Today

If you have suffered injuries in a Tampa hit-and-run accident, the skilled legal team at Hancock Injury Attorneys offers a free consultation and a full range of legal services to help you understand your options and protect your rights. As experienced Tampa attorneys and personal injury lawyers with a strong trial record in Florida, we are dedicated advocates for accident victims and have successfully handled hit-and-run, uninsured motorist, and other complex injury claims.

Our attorneys work closely with investigators and accident reconstructionists to locate fleeing drivers and gather crucial evidence, as hit-and-run cases often require independent investigation. Victims who hire lawyers are more likely to recover larger settlements or verdicts compared to those who go it alone.

When choosing a hit-and-run lawyer, it is important to verify that the attorney is in good standing with the Florida Bar and to check for any disciplinary history. You should also ensure your lawyer is accessible, communicative, and willing to explain legal concepts during your initial consultation.

Time is of the essence when it comes to hit-and-run accidents. Evidence can quickly disappear, and witnesses may forget important details. By reaching out to Hancock Injury Attorneys today, you can ensure that the necessary steps are taken to preserve vital evidence and protect your interests. They can engage with law enforcement and insurance companies on your behalf, easing the burden of the legal process and allowing you to focus on your recovery.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Tampa personal injury attorney, please call (813) 915-1110.