Hit and Run Accident Lawyer in Bonita Springs, FL

If you were hit by another driver who left the scene, you have legal options. A hit-and-run accident can leave you with serious injuries, medical bills, and uncertainty about how to recover. Parker Waichman LLP helps victims in Bonita Springs and throughout Lee County pursue the compensation they deserve. Our experienced hit and run accident lawyer in Bonita Springs understands the challenges you face after a hit-and-run. We handle the investigation, insurance negotiations, and legal claims so you can focus on healing. We have recovered over $2 billion for clients nationwide, giving us the resources and expertise to fight for your rights. Call 800-968-7529 today for a free consultation.

Why Choose Parker Waichman LLP for Your Hit and Run Case

When you need a hit and run accident lawyer in Bonita Springs, you want an attorney who understands Florida law and has a proven track record. Parker Waichman LLP brings decades of experience handling personal injury cases, including hit-and-run accidents. Our Bonita Springs office, located at 27299 Riverview Center Boulevard, Suite 108, serves clients throughout Southwest Florida.

Our team includes Francisco A. Albites, a partner with over 15 years of experience in personal injury and mass tort litigation, and Alex Tovstolug, a senior litigation counsel with extensive expertise in accident cases. Both attorneys are dedicated to helping injured victims recover maximum compensation. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case or reach a settlement.

Parker Waichman LLP has recovered over $2 billion for clients in personal injury cases, including auto accidents. We hold an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the highest possible rating for legal ability and ethical standards. Our attorneys are recognized by Super Lawyers and other professional organizations. We are available 24/7 to answer your questions and discuss your case.

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 name, contact information, or insurance details to the other driver. In Florida, drivers have a legal duty to stop at the scene of an accident and exchange information with other parties involved.

Hit and run accidents can range from minor fender benders to serious collisions that cause severe injuries or death. The driver who leaves the scene may face both criminal charges and civil liability. Criminal penalties can include fines, license revocation, and jail time. Civil liability means the victim can pursue a personal injury claim for damages.

Why do you need legal representation after a hit and run? These cases are more complex than typical car accidents. The at-fault driver may be difficult to locate, and you may need to rely on uninsured motorist coverage to recover compensation. An experienced attorney knows how to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and maximize your recovery.

Hit and Run Laws in Florida

Florida law requires drivers involved in accidents to stop and provide information. Florida Statute 316.027 outlines these requirements. Florida law requires you to report any crash involving injury or significant damage immediately. However, for Hit-and-Run cases, most insurance policies strictly require you to file a police report within 24 hours to remain eligible for Uninsured Motorist (UM) benefits. Waiting even a day too long can give your insurer grounds to deny your claim.

If the accident causes injury or property damage, you must report it to law enforcement. Failing to do so is a crime. Hit-and-run drivers face serious penalties. For accidents involving injury, hit and run becomes a felony. Penalties vary based on the severity of the accident. For accidents involving serious bodily injury or death, penalties include fines up to $10,000, mandatory license revocation for at least 3 years, and potential jail time. For accidents involving non-serious injury, penalties include fines up to $5,000, mandatory license revocation for at least 3 years, and potential jail time.

Under Florida’s recent Tort Reform (HB 837), the statute of limitations for personal injury negligence claims has been reduced to two years for accidents occurring after March 24, 2023. While property damage claims may still have a four-year window, waiting longer than two years for your injury claim could permanently bar you from recovering compensation. You must act quickly.

Injuries and Damages in Hit and Run Cases

Hit and run accidents often result in serious injuries because victims have no warning and cannot brace for impact. Common injuries include whiplash, broken bones, head injuries, and spinal cord damage. Some victims suffer catastrophic injuries that require long-term care and rehabilitation.

Economic damages include all financial losses resulting from the accident. These include medical bills, emergency room visits, surgery costs, physical therapy, and ongoing treatment. You can also recover lost wages if you missed work due to your injuries. Property damage to your vehicle is another economic loss you can claim.

Non-economic damages compensate you for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. If your injuries are severe, these damages are substantial. In catastrophic injury cases, courts recognize the lifetime impact of permanent disabilities and award significant compensation.

Parker Waichman LLP works with medical experts and economists to calculate the full value of your damages. We ensure you receive compensation for both current and future medical needs, lost income, and the impact on your quality of life.

How Parker Waichman LLP Handles Hit and Run Claims

Our process begins with a thorough investigation. We obtain the police report and review all details about the accident. We interview witnesses who may have seen the hit-and-run driver or vehicle. We gather evidence such as traffic camera footage, vehicle damage analysis, and medical records.

If the hit-and-run driver is identified, we work to hold them accountable. We file a claim against their insurance and negotiate for fair compensation. If they are uninsured, we pursue other avenues for recovery. We also work with your own insurance company to maximize benefits available to you.

If the hit-and-run driver is never found, we help you access uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage protects you when the at-fault driver cannot be identified or located. We handle all negotiations with your insurance company to ensure you receive the full benefits you are entitled to.

If negotiations do not result in fair compensation, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys have extensive litigation experience and are not afraid to fight for your rights in court. We present evidence, examine witnesses, and make compelling arguments on your behalf.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage and Hit and Run Claims

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is an important protection in hit-and-run cases. This coverage applies when the at-fault driver is uninsured or unidentified. Many hit-and-run drivers are uninsured, making UM coverage critical for your recovery.

UM coverage pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering up to your policy limits. In hit-and-run cases where the driver is never found, UM coverage is often your primary source of recovery. Some policies also include underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, which applies when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover your damages.

Insurance companies sometimes deny or undervalue UM claims. They may argue that you did not do enough to identify the hit-and-run driver, or they may dispute the extent of your injuries. Parker Waichman LLP knows how to counter these arguments. We gather evidence, work with medical experts, and negotiate aggressively to maximize your recovery.

Your UM coverage limits depend on your policy. If your damages exceed your limits, we explore other options for recovery. We may pursue claims against other liable parties or investigate whether additional insurance coverage applies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a hit-and-run accident?

Your safety is the first priority. If you are injured, call 911 for emergency medical assistance. Move to a safe location if possible. Call the police and report the accident. Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Write down the hit-and-run vehicle’s description, license plate if visible, and direction of travel. Get contact information from any witnesses. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries appear later. Then contact Parker Waichman LLP to discuss your legal options.

Can I recover compensation if the hit-and-run driver is never found?

Yes. Uninsured motorist coverage on your own auto insurance policy protects you in this situation. UM coverage applies when the at-fault driver is uninsured or unidentified. Parker Waichman LLP handles these claims and fights to maximize your recovery. We negotiate with your insurance company and ensure you receive all benefits available under your policy.

How long do I have to file a hit-and-run claim in Florida?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Florida is four years from the date of the accident. For property damage, you have four years. These deadlines are strict. If you miss them, you lose your right to recover. Contact Parker Waichman LLP immediately after your accident to protect your rights.

What is uninsured motorist coverage, and how does it help?

Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is optional in Florida, but it is your primary safety net in a hit-and-run. If you elected to carry this coverage, it steps in to pay your medical bills and lost wages when the at-fault driver flees. We review your specific policy to uncover every dollar of available benefits. It covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. In hit-and-run cases, UM coverage is essential because you often cannot recover from the at-fault driver directly. Parker Waichman LLP helps you access this coverage and maximize your recovery.

How much is my hit-and-run case worth?

The value of your case depends on several factors. These include the severity of your injuries, the cost of medical treatment, your lost wages, and the impact on your quality of life. Cases involving permanent injuries or significant medical expenses exceed the value of minor injury cases. Parker Waichman LLP provides a free case evaluation to discuss the potential value of your claim.

Will my case go to trial?

Most personal injury cases settle before trial. Insurance companies often prefer to settle rather than risk a jury verdict. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we are prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys have extensive trial experience and are not afraid to fight for your rights in court.

How much does it cost to hire Parker Waichman LLP?

Nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay no attorney fees unless we win your case or reach a settlement. If we recover compensation for you, our fee comes from that recovery. This arrangement allows you to pursue your claim without financial risk.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP Today

If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident in Bonita Springs or anywhere in Lee County, contact Parker Waichman LLP today. Call 800-968-7529 to speak with an experienced hit and run accident lawyer. We offer free consultations and are available 24/7 to answer your questions. Our Bonita Springs office is located at 27299 Riverview Center Boulevard, Suite 108. We serve clients throughout Southwest Florida and are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation with Parker Waichman LLP today.