ORLANDO HIT AND RUN ATTORNEY

Hit and run drivers can be hard to identify, particularly if there were no witnesses. If the police never find the driver involved in your crash, you might be concerned about how to recover damages. Since Florida is a no-fault state, you can turn to your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance to reimburse your medical expenses, loss of income, and other damages. 

However, the minimum amount of coverage is only $10,000. Therefore, your damages will likely exceed your PIP insurance cover if you have severe or disabling injuries. Moreover, PIP will only pay for 80 percent of your losses. You could recover additional compensation if you have opted for uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM) as part of your car insurance policy. 
 

If your loved one had PIP insurance coverage in place, the surviving close family members are generally entitled to $5,000 in no-fault death benefits in Florida. However, you could also file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault driver, if located, or another liable party in the hit and run. A wrongful death lawsuit can allow you to pursue damages such as:

• Medical bills before death
• Burial and funeral costs
• Loss of companionship
• Loss of services and assistance from your loved one 
• Emotional distress
• Loss of income and benefits from the decedent

Morgan & Morgan knows that fighting a lawsuit is the last thing on your mind when a loved one passes away unexpectedly. However, while compensation cannot bring your loved one back, it could help you avoid financial hardship and obtain some financial security for the future. 

When someone else causes your accident and disappears, you could be left to face your bills alone. If you suffer severe injuries, your PIP insurance coverage will likely not be enough to pay for all your medical bills. However, if law enforcement finds the at-fault driver, you could potentially file a lawsuit against them or another responsible party. Even then, a settlement will not be instant, and you would be responsible for paying your medical bills in the first instance. Options for help with your medical bills can include: 

• Private health insurance
• Additional car insurance coverage per your policy 
• Medicaid or Medicare

Another good option can be to speak to your medical providers and ask if they would consider deferred payments and whether you can pay them once you receive your settlement. It is important to remember that those agencies that paid for your medical bills will expect you to reimburse them after you receive a payout. Our attorneys know how to negotiate with health insurers, so you only pay what is absolutely necessary.
 

If you had minor injuries and your PIP insurance cover paid for most of your expenses, you may not need a lawyer. However, it is always a good idea to learn about your legal rights and options, especially if you got significantly hurt in the accident. A consultation with Morgan & Morgan is always free, and you don’t pay us unless we win. 

We have helped thousands of accident victims. Our compassionate attorneys know what you are going through in the wake of your accident. We are here to take the stress off you and help you navigate the legal process. 

Hit-and-run accident victims can face many hurdles before receiving compensation for their losses. However, hiring a Morgan & Morgan hit-and-run attorney in Orlando can provide you with a tireless advocate who can strongly negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, file a lawsuit to fight for a fair settlement. We have recovered over $30 billion in damages for our clients to date, and you could also benefit from our expertise and dedication. Contact us now for a free consultation to determine the next best steps after your hit and run.