Being injured by a hit-and-run driver can leave you feeling shaken, angry, and unsure of where to turn next. When someone takes off instead of taking responsibility, the stress of medical bills, missed work, and unanswered questions can feel overwhelming. You do not have to face this alone.
Trantolo & Trantolo’s Westfield car accident lawyers have more than 85 years of experience helping injury victims seek justice. We will guide you through the legal process to recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case review to find out how our hit and run attorneys serving Westfield, MA can help you.
What Our Westfield Hit and Run Attorneys Do
We understand that you are dealing with significant financial, physical, and emotional challenges. When you hire Trantolo & Trantolo, you receive personalized legal support designed to ease these burdens. Your assigned team handles every aspect of your hit and run claim, from identifying appropriate insurers to gathering evidence, filing claims, and negotiating a settlement.
When working with our Massachusetts car accident lawyers, you can expect:
- 24/7 responsive legal support to address your concerns as they arise
- Constant communication and regular updates to keep you in the loop
- Comprehensive legal services, so you can focus on healing
Our attorneys are deeply familiar with Massachusetts injury law and legal procedures. We will not hesitate to represent you before a judge and jury, if needed. Your team prepares your case for trial from the beginning, so we are always ready to do what it takes to secure justice and compensation for your injuries.
Why Do People Run After a Car Accident?
Hit and run accidents occur any time a driver leaves the scene of an accident. Whether they struck a pedestrian, bicyclist, or another motor vehicle, the driver has a responsibility to remain at the scene and exchange information, per Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 90 § 24(4(h)(2a)(2). They must also report the accident to the authorities, especially if someone was injured. Failure to do so can result in fines and jail time.
Unfortunately, hit and run accidents are still common, despite the potential consequences. A driver may leave the scene because they:
- Are drunk or driving under the influence of drugs.
- Have an expired, suspended, or revoked driver’s license.
- Carry insufficient insurance coverage.
- Have an outstanding warrant or be in violation of parole terms.
No matter why they left the scene, drivers can still be held accountable for the injuries they caused. Trantolo & Trantolo can help you explore the best option for securing damages.
Recovering Damages After a Hit and Run in Westfield, MA
Massachusetts is a no-fault state, which means all drivers must carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. This is good news if you’re in a hit and run, because you can file a claim with your PIP regardless of fault. However, PIP has limitations – it typically only covers medical bills, some lost income, and certain out-of-pocket costs related to the accident.
Other Avenues for Securing Compensation
When PIP is insufficient to cover all your losses, you may still secure compensation through other avenues. Our car accident lawyers explore every available option to recover the compensation you deserve.
If the authorities identify the hit and run driver, we submit a claim to the other driver’s auto insurance or file a personal injury lawsuit for full damages.
If the authorities do not identify the driver or the other driver has inadequate insurance, we may seek compensation through uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, health insurance, or other applicable policies.
Types of Compensation We Seek On Your Behalf
Our team assesses the full scope of your losses to ensure a fair settlement value. Damages we could help you recover include:
- Emergency treatment and transport
- Hospitalization, surgery, and medical care
- Medication and medical supplies
- Household replacement services, such as lawn care, childcare, and cleaning
- Disability and disfigurement
- Pain and suffering and emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages
You can trust Trantolo & Trantolo to fight for maximum financial recovery from all available sources. Our firm has won millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for injury victims. We will do everything in our power to secure the best outcome for your hit and run claim.
Don’t Fight Solo – Let Us Help You Get Justice
You typically have only three years to file a lawsuit from the date of the accident, and even less time to file an insurance claim. If you discover the driver’s identity later, Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260 § 4B allows hit and run victims to file a lawsuit within 6 months of the discovery.
Missed filing deadlines could cost you the chance to recover the compensation you need. Don’t delay – reach out to Trantolo & Trantolo as soon as possible for a free consultation. Our hit and run attorneys are ready to help you with your Westfield crash today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Prove a Hit and Run Accident?
Physical evidence is the best way to prove a hit and run accident. This may include photos and videos of the accident scene, including the at-fault driver and their vehicle, damage to your vehicle, or skid marks and damage to the surrounding area. Witness statements and expert testimony can also help establish the accident timeline and prove fault.
What Insurance Covers Hit and Run Accidents?
Depending on the circumstances of your hit and run, you may get coverage through your PIP or uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. If the authorities identify the responsible driver, you may also seek compensation through that driver’s auto insurance or via a personal injury lawsuit. Trantolo & Trantolo can help you explore your options.
Do I Still Need to Take Legal Action If the Hit-and-Run Driver Is Charged?
Yes. A criminal case and an injury claim serve two different purposes. Criminal charges are meant to hold the driver accountable under the law, but they do not provide compensation for your medical care, lost income, or other losses. To recover damages, you must pursue a separate injury claim. Evidence uncovered during the criminal investigation or prosecution can be helpful, and your hit-and-run attorney can use that information to strengthen your case and pursue the full financial recovery you deserve.
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