Tampa Hit and Run Lawyer

Hit-and-run accidents in Tampa occur when a driver causes an accident and then leaves the scene before stopping to exchange insurance information with the other involved driver(s). There are many reasons why a driver may leave the scene of an accident, including lack of insurance coverage and fear of repercussions.

If you sustained injuries in a hit-and-run accident that took place in Tampa, you are not alone. The knowledgeable Tampa hit-and-run lawyers at Hancock Injury Attorneys can thoroughly investigate your accident circumstances, file a claim on your behalf, and begin negotiating for the compensation you deserve.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable hit-and-run lawyer in Tampa, please call us at (813) 915-1110 or contact us online to learn more.

Why Select Us?

In hit-and-run accidents, victims may suffer debilitating injuries, incur high medical costs, and be left to bear the burden alone. At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we will fight for your rights and pursue the appropriate insurance claim on your behalf. Our lawyers have 30-plus years of experience representing injured clients in the Tampa area and a strong track record of success favorably settling and litigating personal injury cases.

You can view our most recent client testimonials by clicking here.

Our office is conveniently located at 1317 W Fletcher Avenue, Tampa, FL 33612. Let us help you obtain the compensation you deserve for the injuries you suffered in your Tampa hit-and-run crash.

How Much Money Will I Receive for a Tampa Hit and Run Accident Case?

If you’ve suffered an injury in a hit-and-run accident in Tampa, Florida, you may be entitled to various types of compensation. In this situation, you can file a claim under your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) policy or uninsured motorist policy. The total amount you can receive depends on the extent of your injuries, type of claim filed, damage to your property, and overall effects on your life. Here’s an overview of the types of compensation you can recover:

• Medical Expenses – This includes all costs related to treating your injuries from the accident. It covers hospital stays, surgeries, doctor visits, prescription medications, and physical therapy. If you need ongoing medical treatment or special equipment, those expenses are also included.
• Lost earnings – If your injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for the income you’ve lost. This covers not only the time you missed while recovering but any future lost income if your injuries have a long-term effect on your ability to work and make money.
• Pain and Suffering – This type of compensation is intended to address the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured due to the accident. It also considers the overall effect on your quality of life, including any ongoing pain or mental health issues.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life – If the accident has severely limited your ability to enjoy the daily activities or hobbies you previously engaged in, you may be eligible to receive compensation for this loss.
• Punitive Damages – In certain cases, if the hit-and-run driver’s behavior was particularly egregious or reckless, you may be awarded punitive damages. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and discourage such behavior in the future.

In Florida, if the hit-and-run driver is not found, you may need to rely on your uninsured motorist insurance to recover some costs. At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we can navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to recover.

Common Locations for Hit and Run Accidents in Tampa

In Tampa, Florida, hit-and-run accidents can happen anywhere, but there are some locations where they are more common. Here are some of the most frequent spots for hit-and-run accidents in Tampa:

• Busy Intersections – High-traffic intersections, like those at major crossroads or near popular shopping areas, are common places for hit-and-run accidents. Drivers often speed through these intersections or fail to stop, leading to collisions and, in some cases, leaving the scene.
• Major Highways and Expressways – Areas like Interstate 275 and Interstate 4, which see a lot of commuters and through traffic, are hotspots for accidents. On these fast-moving roads, drivers may be more likely to flee the scene if they’re involved in a crash.
• Downtown Tampa – The busy streets of Downtown Tampa, especially around major venues like the Amalie Arena or Tampa Convention Center, can be prone to hit-and-run accidents. The dense traffic and numerous parking lots increase the chances of accidents occurring.
• Residential Neighborhoods – Hit-and-run accidents also happen in residential areas, particularly where streets are narrow or poorly lit. Drivers may hit parked cars or back out of driveways without checking properly, leading to accidents and fleeing the scene.
• Parking Lots – Large parking lots, such as those at malls, grocery stores, or sports venues, are common sites for hit-and-run incidents. These areas often see a lot of vehicle movement and can be places where collisions happen as drivers maneuver in tight spaces.
• School Zones – There can be a higher risk of hit-and-run accidents around schools, especially during drop-off and pick-up times. The combination of children, parents, and busy traffic can lead to collisions and drivers leaving the scene.

Types of Tampa Hit and Run Collisions

In Tampa, Florida, hit-and-run accidents can be categorized into several common types. Here’s a look at some of the most frequent categories of hit-and-run crashes:

• Rear-End Collisions – These occur when one vehicle hits another from behind. In many cases, the driver who causes the accident may choose to flee, especially if they’re driving erratically or without insurance. Rear-end collisions are common in heavy traffic situations or when drivers are distracted.
• Side-Impact Collisions – Also known as T-bone accidents, these happen when one vehicle crashes directly into the side of another. The driver who hits the side of another vehicle may flee the scene if they’re speeding or trying to avoid legal consequences. These accidents often occur at intersections or when one driver runs a red light.
• Parking Lot Accidents—Vehicles may collide in parking lots while maneuvering in tight spaces. Drivers who hit parked cars or other vehicles in these areas may leave the scene to avoid dealing with the aftermath, especially if the damage is minor or if they don’t want to face potential legal issues.
• Hit and Run Pedestrian Accidents – These involve a vehicle striking a pedestrian and then fleeing the scene. These accidents can happen at crosswalks or on sidewalks. Drivers involved in such accidents may flee due to panic or because they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Hit and Run Bicycle Accidents – Cyclists are vulnerable to hit-and-run accidents when a vehicle strikes them and leaves the scene. These accidents often happen when drivers are inattentive or when they fail to notice cyclists on the road.
• Sideswipe Collisions – These accidents occur when one vehicle brushes against another while traveling in the same or opposite direction. In such cases, the driver who causes the sideswipe may leave the scene, especially if they’re at fault and don’t want to deal with the consequences.

In any hit and run accident, it’s important to report the incident to the police and provide as much information as possible. This can help authorities track down the responsible driver and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Most Common Injuries in a Tampa Hit and Run Accident

In a hit-and-run accident in Tampa, Florida, individuals can suffer from a range of physical and mental injuries:

Physical Injuries:

• Cuts and Bruises – Contact with the vehicle or debris from the accident can cause lacerations and bruising. While these injuries may seem minor, they can sometimes lead to infections or long-term scarring.
• Fractures and Broken Bones – The strong force of a hit-and-run accident can cause bones to break or fracture. Commonly affected areas include the arms, ribs, pelvis, and legs.
• Whiplash – This is a common injury in rear-end collisions. Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly jolted forward and backward, causing pain, stiffness, and difficulty moving the neck.
• Concussions and Other Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – A sudden jolt or impact from behind can cause the brain to move inside the skull, leading to concussions or even more severe TBIs. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, and memory issues.

Mental Injuries:

• Anxiety and Depression – The stress of being involved in a hit-and-run accident can lead to anxiety and depression. Individuals may feel overwhelmed by the accident’s aftermath, including dealing with insurance and medical treatments.
• Fear and Avoidance – Victims may develop a fear of driving or being near traffic, leading them to avoid driving altogether or experience panic attacks when driving.

Fighting the Insurance Company in a Tampa Hit and Run Accident Case

If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident in Tampa, Florida, fighting the insurance company can be challenging. At Hancock Injury Attorneys, here’s how we can help on your behalf:

• PIP Insurance Claims – In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance is mandatory. PIP covers medical expenses and lost earnings up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. We can file a PIP claim by gathering all of the necessary documentation, such as medical records and proof of lost income, to ensure you receive the maximum benefits. We can handle the paperwork and negotiations with the insurance company to make sure your claim is processed correctly and promptly.
• Uninsured Motorist (UM) Claims – If the hit-and-run driver is not identified or doesn’t have insurance, you can file a claim under your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. UM insurance helps cover your damages when the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. We can help by reviewing your UM policy, collecting evidence, and negotiating with your insurance company to obtain the fair compensation you deserve. This includes handling any disputes and ensuring that your claim is not unfairly denied or undervalued.
• Legal Representation – We offer experienced legal representation to ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process. This involves negotiating with insurance companies, filing legal documents, and, if necessary, taking your case to court. Our goal is to fight for fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other accident-related losses.

Steps to Take after a Hit and Run Collision in Tampa

After a hit-and-run accident in Tampa, Florida, taking the following steps is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve:

• Notify Your Insurance Company – Notify your own insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurance provider needs to know about the accident to start processing your claim – especially if you have uninsured motorist coverage.
• Complete Your Medical Care – Follow your doctor’s advice and complete all recommended treatments. Proper medical documentation is vital for supporting your claim and ensuring you’re fully compensated for your injuries.
• Gather Relevant Documentation – Collect all evidence related to the accident, including medical records, repair bills, and any photos of the scene and vehicle damage. Keep track of any lost earnings and expenses incurred due to the accident. This documentation will help to substantiate your claim.
• Speak with a Knowledgeable Tampa Hit-and-Run Lawyer – At Hancock Injury Attorneys, we will build a strong case and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Taking these steps promptly and thoroughly will help strengthen your case and improve your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Talk with an Experienced Tampa Hit and Run Accident Attorney Today

If you have suffered injuries in a Tampa hit-and-run accident, the skilled legal team at Hancock Injury Attorneys will aggressively fight for your rights and work to maximize the total compensation you ultimately receive for your injuries.

Time is of the essence when it comes to hit and run accidents. Evidence can quickly disappear, and witnesses may forget important details. By reaching out to Hancock Injury Attorneys today, you can ensure that the necessary steps are taken to preserve vital evidence and protect your interests. They can engage with law enforcement and insurance companies on your behalf, easing the burden of the legal process and allowing you to focus on your recovery.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Tampa personal injury attorney, please call (813) 915-1110 or contact us online.