Being involved in an Arizona hit-and-run accident is a frightening and frustrating experience. The driver responsible for the crash has fled the scene, leaving you to deal with injuries, vehicle damage, and the uncertainty of how to recover compensation. While Arizona law provides avenues for victims of hit-and-run accidents to seek justice, navigating this process requires careful steps and legal expertise. That is why you might want to consult with an Arizona hit and run injury lawyer like Garrick McFadden of the Arizona black owned law firm GAMESQ, PLC. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself legally after a hit-and-run accident in Arizona.
1. Report the Accident to the Police
The first step after any hit-and-run accident is to report it to the police immediately. Arizona law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop and exchange information or render aid if necessary. Fleeing the scene is a criminal offense, and law enforcement will open an investigation to locate the at-fault driver.
A police report is also crucial for your insurance claim. It serves as official documentation of the incident and may include details that can help identify the fleeing driver, such as witness statements or surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras.
2. Notify Your Insurance Company
After contacting the police, report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most insurance policies require prompt notification of accidents, and failing to do so could jeopardize your ability to file a claim.
When speaking with your insurance adjuster:
- Provide them with all relevant details about the accident.
- Share a copy of the police report.
- Avoid speculating about fault or providing unnecessary information.
If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, this will be critical in helping you recover compensation if the hit-and-run driver cannot be identified. UM coverage is designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault driver is uninsured or unknown, such as in hit-and-run cases.
3. Why Uninsured Motorist Coverage Is Essential
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is not mandatory in Arizona but is highly recommended for all drivers. Without UM coverage, recovering compensation for your injuries and damages after a hit-and-run becomes significantly more difficult if the at-fault driver isn’t found.
UM coverage can compensate you for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Vehicle repair costs (if your policy includes uninsured motorist property damage coverage)
In Arizona, approximately 9–11% of drivers are uninsured, according to studies by the Insurance Research Council. Additionally, many hit-and-run drivers flee because they lack insurance or valid licenses. Having UM coverage ensures that you are financially protected even if the responsible party cannot be held accountable.
4. Consult an Experienced Lawyer
Hiring an experienced Arizona car accident lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take after a hit-and-run accident. A lawyer can help protect your rights and guide you through the complexities of filing a claim or pursuing legal action. Garrick McFadden is the Arizona lawyer for uninsured motorist claims.
How Garrick McFadden Can Help You
At GAMESQ, PLC, Garrick McFadden brings exceptional legal expertise and dedication to helping hit-and-run victims secure justice. Here’s how he can assist:
- Investigating the Accident: Garrick will work with law enforcement and private investigators to uncover evidence that could identify the fleeing driver. This may include reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing debris from the scene.
- Filing Insurance Claims: If the hit-and-run driver cannot be found, Garrick will help you file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage and negotiate with your insurance company to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Building a Strong Case: If there are disputes about liability or damages, Garrick’s experience as one of fewer than ten Arizona car accident lawyers who graduated from a top 20 law school (USC Gould School of Law) gives him a unique ability to present compelling arguments on your behalf.
- Maximizing Compensation: Whether through negotiation or litigation, Garrick will fight tirelessly to recover compensation for all your losses, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
5. Consider Hiring a Private Investigator
In some cases, hiring a private investigator can be beneficial in identifying the hit-and-run driver. Private investigators have access to resources and techniques that can supplement law enforcement’s efforts, such as:
- Reviewing traffic camera footage
- Analyzing vehicle debris left at the scene
- Using license plate recognition software
While this step isn’t always necessary, it can be invaluable in cases where there are leads that need further investigation.
6. Document Everything
Thorough documentation is essential for building a strong case after a hit-and-run accident. Keep detailed records of:
- The police report
- Medical bills and treatment records
- Vehicle repair estimates
- Lost wages due to missed work
- Any correspondence with your insurance company
Additionally, take photos of your injuries and vehicle damage as soon as possible after the accident.
7. Act Quickly
Arizona has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims under A.R.S § 12-542. This means you must file your claim within two years from the date of the accident or risk losing your right to seek compensation. However, acting quickly is crucial not only because of legal deadlines but also because evidence can disappear over time.
Conclusion: Protecting Yourself After a Hit-and-Run
Hit-and-run accidents are challenging both emotionally and legally, but taking swift action can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering compensation. Reporting the accident to the police and your insurance company is essential, but having uninsured motorist coverage is equally important if the at-fault driver cannot be found.
Hiring an experienced lawyer like Garrick McFadden at GAMESQ, PLC ensures that every aspect of your case is handled professionally—from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurers or pursuing litigation if necessary. With his expertise and commitment to justice, Garrick will fight tirelessly on your behalf so you can focus on healing.
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Arizona, contact GAMESQ today for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on moving forward—because your injuries are our fight—and your win is our mission.
