A hit-and-run accident can be a terrifying and frustrating experience. Victims are often left injured, confused, and uncertain about their legal options. In St. Louis, hit-and-run cases are unfortunately common, leaving victims struggling with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. This is where a St. Louis personal injury lawyer can be invaluable.
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident, understanding your legal rights and the steps to take can make a significant difference in your recovery. This guide will explain how a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of a hit-and-run case and secure the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in St. Louis
What Is a Hit-and-Run?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing their contact information or assisting the injured. This is illegal in Missouri, and drivers who flee the scene can face serious penalties, including fines and jail time.
Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene?
There are several reasons why a driver might leave the scene of an accident, including:
Fear of legal consequences, especially if they are intoxicated or uninsured.
Lack of a valid driver’s license.
Driving a stolen vehicle or having outstanding warrants.
Panic or shock from the accident.
Regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene is a crime, and victims have legal rights to pursue justice and compensation.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
1. Call 911 and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety should be your top priority. Call 911 immediately and report the accident. If you are injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if the injuries seem minor. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
2. Gather Evidence
If possible, try to collect as much information as you can about the accident. This may include:
A description of the fleeing vehicle (make, model, color, license plate number if possible).
The time, location, and circumstances of the accident.
Contact information of any witnesses.
Photos or videos of the accident scene and your injuries.
3. Report the Accident to the Police
A police report is crucial in a hit-and-run case. The authorities will investigate the accident and attempt to identify the at-fault driver. Your personal injury lawyer can use this report to support your claim.
4. Contact a St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer
Dealing with a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re injured. A personal injury lawyer can help you handle the legal process, communicate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How a St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Investigating the Accident
One of the first things your lawyer will do is conduct a thorough investigation to identify the driver who fled the scene. This may involve:
Reviewing traffic camera footage or surveillance videos.
Interviewing witnesses and collecting statements.
Working with law enforcement to track down the at-fault driver.
Analyzing accident reconstruction reports.
Filing an Insurance Claim
If the hit-and-run driver is not found, you may need to file a claim through your insurance policy. Your lawyer will help you navigate:
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage – Missouri law requires insurance companies to provide UM coverage, which can help cover medical expenses and other damages if the at-fault driver is unidentified.
Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay) – This can help pay for your immediate medical expenses, regardless of fault.
Collision Coverage – If your vehicle is damaged, collision coverage can help pay for repairs.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A personal injury lawyer will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation. This includes:
Gathering medical records and evidence to support your claim.
Calculating the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Handling all communication with the insurance company to prevent you from being taken advantage of.
Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If the at-fault driver is identified but refuses to take responsibility, or if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit. This can help you recover damages through the court system.
Compensation Available for Hit-and-Run Victims
Victims of hit-and-run accidents may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:
Medical Expenses – Current and future medical costs related to your injuries.
Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed from work due to injuries.
Property Damage – Costs to repair or replace your vehicle.
Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Punitive Damages – In some cases, the court may award punitive damages to punish the hit-and-run driver if they are found.
Why You Should Act Quickly
Missouri’s Statute of Limitations
In Missouri, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally five years from the date of the accident. However, it’s best to act as soon as possible to preserve evidence and strengthen your case.
Evidence Can Disappear
The longer you wait, the harder it may be to collect evidence, locate witnesses, or track down the at-fault driver. A personal injury lawyer will work quickly to gather crucial evidence and build a strong case on your behalf.
Final Thoughts
Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident in St. Louis can be a stressful and frustrating experience, but you don’t have to go through it alone. A skilled personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, don’t wait—reach out to a St. Louis personal injury lawyer today for a free consultation. With the right legal representation, you can focus on your recovery while your lawyer fights for justice on your behalf.
To know more details, contact us
Name Of Law Firm: Halvorsen Klote
Address: 680 Craig Rd #104, St. Louis, MO 63141, United States
Phone: 314-451-1314
Website URL: https://hklawstl.com