Hit and run accident lawyer Memphis, TN

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, a hit and run accident lawyer in Memphis, TN at Patterson Bray understands that you may feel there’s not much you can do to receive compensation. Fortunately, there are insurance programs that specifically cover these types of incidents, and legal professionals to guide you through. After being hit and abandoned, here’s what you should do:

1. Report the Incident

A missing second party at the scene is no reason not to call the authorities. There’s still much to report, so a TN hit and run accident lawyer in Memphis recommends calling the police right away. In most areas, it’s your legal responsibility to make this report to the police, and oftentimes a police report can make the claims process run more smoothly. Medical assistance is another reason to report the incident immediately.

2. Receive Medical Care

If you are injured, or even just suspect it without obvious signs, let a paramedic conduct an initial assessment of your condition. If you have serious injuries, it may require a ride to the hospital in an ambulance. Do not refuse medical attention, as it could be detrimental to your health, and could also affect insurance or legal processes.

3. Collect Evidence

Though the at-fault party didn’t stick around, you can still collect evidence. Perhaps you saw the individual’s car as it drove away and could give the police a description. If you were able to catch the license plate number, that would be helpful evidence to share with a Memphis, TN hit and run accident lawyer at Patterson Bray. If you are able, or if there’s someone who can do it for you, take pictures of the accident, your injuries, the damage to your car and the surrounding area.

4. Contact Your Insurer

You’ll need to report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as you are able. In most cases, you’ll be covered by uninsured motorist coverage as the victim of a hit-and-run accident. Some states and insurers waive the deductible for people in a hit-and-run situation, so be sure you check into that before you pay anything. You could also look into personal injury coverage, collision coverage and medical coverage. If you need help regarding your insurance agency or coverage, contact an Auto accident lawyer in Memphis, TN for prompt assistance.

5. Contact Your Lawyer

Not every hit-and-run accident will be straightforward, which is why we suggest getting counsel from a hit and run accident lawyer in Tennessee right away. You may have some setbacks with your insurance company. The other driver may eventually be identified. Someone might come forward and accuse you of something. You never know, so it’s important you contact us for help with the legal aspect of the situation.

Types of Emotional Wounds from a Car Accident

Many people who are injured in car accidents deal with anxiety and fear after the fact. For instance, a Memphis hit and run accident lawyer has seen how people may even be too afraid to get back into a vehicle again, which can prevent them from going to work and other important places.

Victims of car accidents may feel ashamed about what happened and completely withdraw from the outside world. They might stop spending time with their friends and family members, along with keeping to themselves.

As a TN hit and run accident lawyer may tell you, it is also common for car accident victims to develop sleeping issues. They may feel so much stress after the accident that they have trouble falling asleep at night. Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, trouble concentrating, impaired judgment, poor work performance, strained relationships, and other issues.

Some victims of car accidents may develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Symptoms of these mental health conditions include flashbacks, nightmares, and depression. We suggest talking with your doctor if you have noticed a change in your mental health. 

Dealing With the Emotional Impacts of a Car Accident

If you’re dealing with emotional stress from a car accident, a hit and run accident lawyer in Memphis, Tennessee gently encourages victims to deal with it right away. Ignoring these issues may only make them worse.

• Share your feelings with your close friends and family members. Talking about what you’re going through with people you trust can help release some anxiety.
• Get back into your normal routine. It can be difficult at first, but resuming your normal activities can help you get on with your life and feel better.
• Learn how to be a defensive driver. Although driving again can be scary after an accident, practicing defensive driving can reduce your risk of future accidents. Always wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, follow the speed limit and be on the lookout for dangerous drivers.
• Talk to a mental health therapist. He or she can help you come to terms with what happened and help you move on.

Getting Compensation After a Car Accident

If you were injured in a car accident, an auto accident lawyer in Memphis, TN can talk with you about whether you are eligible for financial compensation. It’s imperative to speak to a qualified legal team about your options. We can help you gather evidence, identify witnesses, negotiate with insurance companies, and protect your legal rights.

Schedule a free consultation with a Tennessee hit and run accident lawyer from Patterson Bray as soon as possible for help recovering after such a terrifying event.