Victim of a Hit and Run in Salt Lake City?
A hit-and-run accident isn’t just a traffic violation—it’s someone causing harm and running away, leaving you to deal with the mess. You’re hurt, frustrated, and left disoriented while the person responsible is long gone. The medical bills start adding up, your car is out of commission, and the stress? It’s a lot. But here’s the good news: You don’t have to face this alone. Help is available, and there are steps you can take to protect your rights.
At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we believe that victims of hit-and-run accidents in Salt Lake City deserve justice, and we don’t back down until we get it. Whether or not the hit-and-run driver is identified, we’ll pursue every legal avenue to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. You focus on healing—we’ll handle the rest.
What Exactly Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a car accident leaves the scene without stopping to provide their contact and insurance details or assisting anyone who might be injured. This isn’t just unethical—it’s illegal, and it leaves victims with few immediate answers.
Types of Hit-and-Run Accidents
- Car-on-Car Collisions: A reckless driver crashes into another vehicle and speeds away.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable, and when a driver flees, it worsens an already devastating situation.
- Bicycle Accidents: Cyclists are often left seriously injured when struck by a driver who refuses to stop.
- Property Damage Accidents: Even when no one is hurt, leaving the scene of a property damage accident is still considered a hit-and-run.
Utah’s Hit-and-Run Laws—What You Need to Know
Utah law does not take hit-and-run accidents lightly. If you’re involved in an accident, you are legally required to stop, exchange information, and help anyone who may be injured. Failing to do so can lead to severe consequences:
- Class B Misdemeanor: Leaving the scene after only causing property damage.
- Class A Misdemeanor: Fleeing when someone is injured significantly increases penalties.
- Felony Charges: If a hit-and-run accident results in serious injury or death, the driver could face felony charges and potential prison time.
- Statute of Limitations: Victims have four years to file a personal injury lawsuit, but criminal investigations may continue beyond that period.
What Should You Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Salt Lake City, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your case:
- Call the Police Immediately: A police report is crucial in tracking down the hit-and-run driver and strengthening your car accident claim.
- Gather Evidence: Take clear photos of your vehicle, any injuries, skid marks, debris, and surrounding damage.
- Speak to Witnesses: If anyone saw the accident, their statements can be invaluable in identifying the at-fault driver.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not show immediate symptoms—get checked out as soon as possible.
- Contact a Hit-and-Run Lawyer: A skilled Salt Lake City hit-and-run accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are fully protected.
How Our Hit-and-Run Lawyers Will Fight for You
At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we know that hit-and-run accidents can feel like an uphill battle. That’s why we take the burden off your shoulders and fight aggressively on your behalf.
Investigating the Accident
Tracking down a hit-and-run driver is challenging, but our legal team leaves no stone unturned:
- Reviewing surveillance footage from businesses, traffic lights, and nearby residences.
- Collaborating with law enforcement to analyze accident reports and available evidence.
- Collecting witness statements that may help identify the vehicle or driver.
- Consulting accident reconstruction specialists to piece together exactly what happened.
Dealing with Insurance Companies So You Don’t Have To
Insurance providers aren’t in the business of making things easy for you. Many hit-and-run accident claims get denied or delayed. That’s where we step in. We fight to secure full compensation under your uninsured motorist coverage (UMC), ensuring you get:
- Medical expenses for hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Lost wages if your injuries keep you from working.
- Pain and suffering to account for the emotional and physical distress you’ve endured.
- Vehicle repairs or replacement so you don’t have to pay for damages out of pocket.
Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If the hit-and-run driver is located and refuses to take responsibility, we take legal action. Filing a personal injury lawsuit can help recover additional compensation, including punitive damages—which are designed to punish reckless drivers and deter similar behavior in the future.
What Compensation Can You Receive After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
The financial impact of a hit-and-run accident shouldn’t fall on you. Depending on the details of your case, you may be eligible for compensation for:
- Medical Bills: Covering everything from ER visits to physical therapy and long-term treatment.
- Lost Income: If your injuries prevent you from working, you deserve reimbursement for lost wages.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional toll of the accident.
- Vehicle Repairs or Replacement: If your car was damaged, you shouldn’t have to pay out of pocket.
- Punitive Damages: If the hit-and-run driver is identified, courts may impose additional fines to hold them accountable.
Why Trust Benjamin Durham Law Firm With Your Case?
At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we don’t just represent clients—we advocate for real people who deserve justice. We understand the frustration, uncertainty, and financial strain that come with being the victim of a hit-and-run accident, and we fight tirelessly to ensure you get the compensation you need.
- Decades of Legal Experience: Our Salt Lake City hit-and-run accident lawyers have successfully handled countless complex cases.
- Personalized Legal Strategies: No two cases are alike, and we develop tailored solutions for each client.
- Proven Track Record: We’ve helped accident victims throughout Utah recover the compensation they deserve.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Don’t Wait—Take Action Today
You didn’t ask for this accident, but you can take control of what happens next. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Salt Lake City, don’t delay. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case will be.
Get a Free Case Evaluation
Time is critical in hit-and-run cases. Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. Let’s work together to hold negligent drivers accountable and get you the compensation you deserve.