Being hit by another vehicle and left at the scene is a traumatic experience. Victims often feel confused, injured, and uncertain about their legal options. A hit-and-run accident creates unique challenges. The at-fault driver may be unknown or uninsured. This makes recovery more complicated than a standard car accident claim. Turbak Law Office, P.C. understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on Watertown residents. Our team helps hit-and-run victims pursue compensation through multiple legal avenues. Whether the driver is identified or remains unknown, we work to help you recover what you deserve.
Why Choose Turbak Law Office, P.C. for Your Hit and Run Case
When you’re injured in a hit-and-run accident, you need a law firm that understands both the criminal investigation process and the civil compensation options available to you. Turbak Law Office, P.C. handles both the criminal and civil aspects of hit-and-run cases.
Our team includes attorneys with deep roots in the Watertown community. We have extensive experience with South Dakota personal injury law. We operate on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This approach aligns our interests with yours. We succeed only when you succeed.
We investigate every angle of your case. We work with law enforcement, accident reconstruction experts, and insurance companies. Our goal is to build the strongest possible claim. We focus on results that actually help you move forward.
What Is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing their contact information, insurance details, or assistance to injured parties. Under South Dakota law, drivers must stop at the scene of any accident. They must provide their name and address. They must show their driver’s license and vehicle registration number. They must render reasonable assistance to anyone injured.
Hit and run is both a criminal offense and a civil matter. Criminally, it violates South Dakota Codified Law 32-34-3 through 32-34-9. Criminal charges can result in jail time, fines, and license suspension. Civilly, hit-and-run victims can pursue compensation for their injuries and damages. This happens through insurance claims and lawsuits.
The criminal case is handled by prosecutors. The civil case is your path to financial recovery. Understanding this distinction is important. Your ability to recover damages doesn’t depend on whether the driver is caught or prosecuted. You have legal options either way.
How Hit and Run Cases Differ From Other Car Accidents
Hit-and-run cases present distinct challenges compared to typical car accidents. In typical accidents, both drivers exchange information at the scene. In hit-and-run cases, the primary challenge is identifying the at-fault party. Without the other driver’s information, you cannot file a claim directly against their insurance policy.
This is where uninsured motorist (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage becomes critical. Your own insurance policy is required to include UM/UIM coverage. This protects you when the other driver is uninsured, underinsured, or unidentified. In hit-and-run cases, this coverage often becomes your primary path to recovery.
Hit and run cases may also involve more complex investigations. We work with police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage. We use accident reconstruction experts to analyze what happened. The investigation process takes longer. However, thorough documentation strengthens your claim. It increases the likelihood of maximum compensation.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident
Your actions immediately following a hit-and-run accident significantly impact your case. Here’s what you should do:
Prioritize safety and medical attention. Move to a safe location if possible. Call 911 if anyone is injured. Seek medical care immediately. Some injuries develop over hours or days.
Report the accident to the police. Call the Watertown Police Department and file a report. Obtain the police report number. This document is essential for your insurance claim and any legal action.
Document the scene. Take photos of vehicle damage, the accident location, and road conditions. Write down the time and date.
Gather witness information. Ask anyone who saw the accident for their name and phone number. Witness statements are valuable evidence.
Notify your insurance company promptly. Report the accident to your insurer as soon as possible. Provide accurate information, but avoid detailed statements about fault.
Consult with a lawyer before giving statements. Before speaking with insurance adjusters or investigators, contact Turbak Law Office, P.C.. We advise you on what to say. We will help protect your rights.
How Turbak Law Office, P.C. Investigates Hit and Run Cases
A thorough investigation is the foundation of a strong hit-and-run claim. Our process includes multiple steps. We work to identify the at-fault driver. We document your injuries. We work to maximize your recovery.
We begin by obtaining and reviewing the police report. This often contains witness statements, vehicle descriptions, and investigative leads. We then conduct our own investigation. We interview witnesses and gather additional statements.
We request surveillance footage from nearby businesses, traffic cameras, and residential properties. This footage may have captured the accident. We work with accident reconstruction experts. They analyze vehicle damage, road conditions, and accident dynamics. This helps determine what happened and who was at fault.
We also review your medical records. We coordinate with your healthcare providers. This documents the full extent of your injuries. We gather evidence of lost wages and property damage. We pursue every available avenue for compensation. Our goal is to build a strong case that supports maximum recovery.
Compensation Available in Hit and Run Cases
Hit and run victims can recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages include quantifiable financial losses:
- Medical expenses for emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, and physical therapy
- Lost wages and lost earning capacity if injuries prevent you from working
- Property damage to your vehicle, including repair or replacement costs
Non-economic damages compensate you for:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Reduced quality of life resulting from your injuries
In cases where the hit-and-run driver is identified, punitive damages may be available. These damages punish the wrongdoer. They deter similar behavior.
The total compensation depends on several factors. These include the severity of your injuries, the clarity of liability, available insurance coverage, and the strength of your evidence. Our team evaluates all these factors. We pursue the maximum recovery possible for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a hit-and-run accident?
Call 911 if anyone is injured. Move to safety if possible. Call the police and file a report. Take photos of the scene and your injuries. Get contact information from witnesses. Seek medical attention. Then contact Turbak Law Office, P.C. before speaking with insurance adjusters.
Can I recover damages if the hit-and-run driver is never found?
Yes. Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver is unidentified or uninsured. You can file a claim with your own insurance company for your injuries and damages. Turbak Law Office, P.C. handles the claim process. We negotiate with your insurer to help you receive fair compensation.
What is uninsured motorist coverage and how does it help?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is part of your auto insurance policy. It protects you when the other driver is uninsured or unidentified. In hit-and-run cases, UM coverage is your primary path to recovery. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages up to your policy limits. We file the claim and negotiate with your insurance company on your behalf.
How long do I have to file a hit-and-run claim in South Dakota?
South Dakota law provides a three-year statute of limitations. This runs from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, insurance claims have different deadlines. Evidence also degrades over time. Don’t wait. Contact Turbak Law Office, P.C. as soon as possible after your accident. This protects your rights and preserves evidence.
What evidence do I need to prove a hit-and-run case?
Strong evidence includes the police report, witness statements, surveillance footage, vehicle damage photos, and medical records. Medical records should document your injuries. We also gather proof of lost wages. We use expert analysis from accident reconstruction specialists. We gather and organize all available evidence. We build your case with what’s available.
How much does it cost to hire Turbak Law Office, P.C.?
We represent hit-and-run victims on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing up front. You pay no attorney fees unless we recover compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. This arrangement ensures we’re fully committed to your recovery. It removes financial barriers to legal representation.
Contact Turbak Law Office, P.C. for Your Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Watertown or anywhere in South Dakota, don’t handle this alone. Turbak Law Office, P.C. offers free initial consultations. We discuss your case, explain your legal options, and answer your questions. Call us today to schedule your consultation. We’re here to help you recover the compensation you deserve.