Car accidents are frightening experiences that, even if minor, can leave you feeling disoriented and helpless. If the accident was a hit-and-run, those feelings are amplified by the frustration of knowing that the responsible driver tried to get away with it.
For help dealing with the emotional, physical, and financial aftermath of a hit-and-run accident in Waldorf, MD, reach out to Patrick D. Troxler, Esq. at Troxler & Troxler Law Firm. He and his team offer a wide range of legal services to help clients seek compensation after auto accidents. You can rely on attorney Troxler to collect evidence about your accident and work hard to uncover the identity of the driver.
What Constitutes a Hit-And-Run Accident?
In a hit-and-run accident, a driver flees the scene of a collision and does not provide contact information or assistance to anyone injured.Â
In Maryland, it is illegal for any driver to leave the scene of an accident. This is the case whether the accident involves another vehicle, a pedestrian, or property.Â
Hit-and-run accidents can occur in various situations, including:
- Car crashes
- Pedestrian accidents
- Incidents where property is damaged, such as parked vehicles
These cases often present unique challenges because the responsible driver is not immediately identified. This makes it harder for victims to pursue compensation for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.Â
In many hit-and-run incidents, the victim may need to use their own insurance or seek legal representation to investigate and track down the at-fault party. Maryland law imposes serious penalties for drivers who flee the scene, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
Common Injuries in Hit-And-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening, depending on the severity of the collision. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries: These damages can occur due to sudden impact, affecting the neck, back, and shoulders.
- Broken bones: Broken bones are also frequent, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs. They are especially common when pedestrians or cyclists are involved.
- Head injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or concussions can occur when the victim’s head strikes a surface during the accident.
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord damage can lead to long-term mobility issues or paralysis.
- Internal injuries and organ damage: These severe injuries are common in high-impact collisions.
Hit-and-run victims may also experience emotional trauma, such as anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), due to the distressing nature of the event.
After a hit-and-run accident, take these essential steps:
- Ensure your safety: Relocate to a secure place if you can.
- Immediately call 911: If needed, report the accident and request medical assistance.
- Document the scene: Take pictures of your vehicle, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area.
- Try to gather witness information: This includes contact details and statements, which can help identify the fleeing driver.
- File a police report as soon as possible: This will be essential for any insurance or legal claims.Â
- Notify your insurance company: Provide them with all the information you’ve gathered.
- Consult an attorney: An attorney can help you recover compensation for damages, injuries, and lost wages. This is especially true when the responsible party has not been identified.
Why Choose Patrick D. Troxler, Esq.?
As the founder of Troxler & Troxler Law Firm, Patrick D. Troxler brings extensive legal expertise and deep local knowledge to each case. He earned his law degree from Howard University School of Law and his Bachelor’s degree from Morgan State University.
A lifelong resident of Waldorf, Maryland, Patrick has a unique connection with the Southern Maryland community. With his office centrally located in Waldorf, he offers personalized, genuine legal advice to his clients, meeting their needs with care and professionalism. His commitment to his clients makes him a trusted advocate.
Know Your Legal Options
If we can’t find the driver responsible for your hit-and-run accident, we can still help you pursue other options. You can trust our law firm to help you seek compensation from your insurance company through an uninsured motorist claim. By filing one of these claims, you may be able to cover:
- Past medical expenses
- Future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Future lost earnings
- Property damages
To find out what our law firm can do for you, reach out to us today. We’ve helped countless clients deal with the aftermath of their auto accidents. We’ll do everything we can to help you, too.
Trust Patrick D. Troxler, Esq. For Representation
To learn more about your rights and how you can recover full compensation for your car accident injuries, please call experienced Maryland car accident attorney Patrick D. Troxler, Esq., at 301-264-6072 today or email us right away to schedule your free consultation.
