Omaha Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney

Legal Assistance for Omaha Hit-and-Run Victims

All drivers who are involved in an accident must remain at the site of the crash, especially if someone has been injured or killed. Leaving an injured driver, passenger, pedestrian, or bicyclist without offering aid and failing to contact the authorities is a violation of Nebraska law.

Hit-and-runs are especially dangerous because sometimes the only other person on the road is the person who caused the accident. If they do not call for help, then the victim’s injuries may grow worse. A serious injury can easily become deadly if medical treatment is not given in a timely manner.

If you or a loved one has been injured by a driver who fled the scene, you need strong legal representation to get you the compensation you deserve.

As a premier personal injury law firm, what sets Bottlinger Law L.L.C. apart from the rest is our passion for helping those in need. Named a Top 100 Lawyer by The National Trial Lawyers, founding attorney Jason Bottlinger leverages his 15 years of experience in every case he handles to the benefit of each client. Our track record and membership to the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum can attest to the success we’ve had in helping our clients secure the resources they need to recover.

Get an experienced Omaha car accident attorney on your side by calling (402) 505-8234 today.

What Is a Hit-and-Run?

When someone is involved in a traffic collision and leaves the scene without giving out personal information to the other party or calling for medical assistance if it’s needed, then that driver has committed a hit-and-run. Determining fault for the accident becomes largely irrelevant, as committing a hit-and-run is a crime in Nebraska.

Hit-and-runs also occur whenever a driver collides with a person or object and fails to stop, whether another car, motorcycle, or bicycle. Even though most people understand they are required by law to stay at the scene of an accident and call for an ambulance or the police, sometimes people panic. Perhaps they were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving recklessly, or scared of the consequences of causing a serious accident. But none of those reasons are a valid defense.

Section 60-697 of Nebraska law requires everyone involved in an accident to provide reasonable assistance to anyone who has been injured. If no injuries occurred but there was property damage, drivers must still stop to provide contact information and file an accident report within a 10-day timeframe.

Why Someone Might Hit and Run

Hit-and-run incidents occur for various reasons, often driven by fear, desperation, or reckless behavior. One primary motivator is the fear of facing legal consequences. Individuals may flee the scene to evade accountability, especially if they lack insurance coverage or are intoxicated, fearing DUI charges or license suspension. In some cases, impairment due to drugs or alcohol contributes to poor judgment and impulsivity, leading to reckless behavior behind the wheel.

Others may flee out of panic or shock, reacting instinctively without considering the consequences. However, it’s essential to understand that criminal charges do not have to be filed against the perpetrator for the victim to receive compensation. Victims of hit-and-run accidents can still pursue civil claims for damages, including medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering, regardless of whether criminal charges are pursued.

Legal recourse provides a means for victims to seek justice and financial recovery, holding negligent parties accountable for their actions. Despite the motivations behind hit-and-run incidents, the law holds perpetrators responsible for their actions, aiming to deter future occurrences and ensure victims receive the support they need to heal and move forward.

Immediate Actions After an Omaha Hit-and-Run

After an Omaha hit-and-run accident, taking immediate action is crucial to protect your well-being and legal rights.

• Contact law enforcement: Reporting the hit-and-run to law enforcement is crucial for initiating an official investigation. Provide detailed information about the incident, such as the time, location, and description of the vehicle and driver involved. This information helps law enforcement in their efforts to locate the perpetrator and hold them accountable for their actions.
• Seek medical attention promptly: Even if injuries appear minor initially, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly after a hit-and-run accident. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately apparent but can have serious long-term consequences if left untreated. Medical documentation also serves as valuable evidence in your personal injury claim.
• Gather evidence: Documenting the scene of the accident is crucial for building a strong case. Take photos of the vehicle damage, any visible injuries you or passengers may have sustained, and relevant road conditions, such as skid marks or traffic signs. This evidence can corroborate your account of the incident and provide valuable insight into what transpired.
• Obtain witness contact information: Witnesses to the hit-and-run may have observed important details, such as the license plate number of the fleeing vehicle or the direction it was headed. Obtain their contact information, including names and phone numbers, so that they can provide statements to law enforcement or your insurance company. Witness testimony can be instrumental in identifying the at-fault driver and strengthening your case for compensation.
• Contact an Omaha hit-and-run injury attorney: An experienced auto accident lawyer who specializes in hit-and-run accidents can guide you through the legal process, including navigating insurance claims and pursuing compensation for damages. Your attorney can also advise you on preserving evidence and protecting your rights, ensuring you receive the support and advocacy needed during this challenging time.

Acting swiftly and decisively can help strengthen your case and increase the likelihood of holding the responsible party accountable for their actions.

Compensation Available to Hit-and-Run Accident Victims

Failure to adhere to state laws following a traffic collision is a criminal act. In addition to the criminal consequences of a hit-and-run, there are also civil consequences – the perpetrator is liable to the victim for personal injury compensation. A lawyer can help you file a lawsuit that helps you get the compensation that you deserve. This may include:

• Medical bills
• Pain and suffering
• Wages lost due to time off work
• Rehabilitation costs
• Cost of continuing medical care

The settlement you receive after an accident will depend on the individual damages that you or your loved one experienced as a result of the accident.

Why You Need Legal Representation

Legal representation is essential after a hit-and-run accident due to the challenging legal and factual issues involved in handling insurance claims, maximizing compensation, and identifying the responsible party. Hit-and-run accidents often present challenges in understanding insurance coverage and filing claims. An experienced hit-and-run lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring you understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation.

Furthermore, legal representation is crucial for pursuing maximum compensation from uninsured motorist coverage. In hit-and-run cases where the at-fault driver cannot be identified or lacks insurance, uninsured motorist coverage may provide a source of compensation. Your attorney can help you navigate this process, advocating for your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Moreover, your attorney plays a vital role in investigating the accident and identifying the responsible party. This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working with law enforcement to track down the at-fault driver. They can uncover crucial details that may lead to the apprehension of the perpetrator and strengthen your case for compensation.

In the end, legal representation is essential after a hit-and-run accident to navigate insurance claims, pursue maximum compensation, and identify the responsible party, ensuring your rights are protected, and you receive the support you need to recover from the incident.

Contact an Omaha Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney Today

It only takes a second for a negligent driver to throw a wrench into your life. After a hit-and-run accident in Omaha, you need an attorney to protect your rights and recover the compensation that you are entitled to by law.

At Bottlinger Law L.L.C., we take great pride in fighting for the rights of car accident victims and have an impressive track record of success. Our firm handles personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay us a cent until we get you the money you deserve.

We’re standing by to explore your legal options—reach out to us at (402) 505-8234 to schedule a free consultation today.

Additional Information

• Why You Should File a Hit and Run Claim