Were you injured in a hit-and-run accident in Charleston, West Virginia? Even if the at-fault driver fled the scene, you may still be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries and damages.
At Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers, our award-winning legal team is ready to advocate for your recovery. With over 315 years of combined experience and hundreds of millions recovered for clients, we have the knowledge and resources to take on complex cases, especially when justice feels out of reach.
You don’t have to face the uncertainty of a hit-and-run claim alone. Let our Charleston hit-and-run accident attorneys take on the legal burden so you can focus on healing. Contact us today at (304) 346-5990 to schedule a free consultation.
How Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Hit-and-Run in Charleston, WV
After a driver leaves the scene of a crash, you may feel powerless. We’re here to help you take back control.
Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into your accident and gather all available evidence
- Interview witnesses and search for traffic, doorbell, or surveillance camera footage
- Coordinate with accident reconstructionists and forensic experts
- Review your auto insurance policy for UM/UIM coverage and file all appropriate claims
- Negotiate with insurance companies to pursue full and fair compensation
- File a lawsuit and take your case to trial if the insurer refuses to settle fairly
Even if the responsible driver is never identified, you may still be eligible for compensation. Our Charleston car accident lawyers will pursue every path to recovery and protect your legal rights at every step. Reach out now for a free case review.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a crash leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or help anyone who is injured. These incidents are particularly frustrating for victims, as the fleeing driver avoids responsibility and often leaves behind serious injuries and financial losses.
Hit-and-run crashes often occur:
- In parking lots
- On busy urban streets
- During late-night or early morning hours
- In pedestrian zones or near crosswalks
- On highways after high-speed collisions
These accidents may involve pedestrians, cyclists, parked vehicles, or other drivers. No matter the circumstances, leaving the scene without offering aid is both unethical and illegal.
Is It Illegal to Leave the Scene of an Accident in West Virginia?
Yes. In West Virginia, fleeing the scene of an accident is a criminal offense. Drivers involved in any collision are legally required to stop, share their contact and insurance information, and assist injured individuals if necessary.
Penalties vary depending on the severity of the crash:
- Crashes involving only property damage may lead to misdemeanor charges
- Crashes involving injury or death can result in felony charges, steep fines, and imprisonment
A criminal conviction, however, does not automatically guarantee compensation for the victim. That requires a separate civil action, which our firm can handle on your behalf.
What Happens If the Driver Is Never Identified?
Even when the at-fault driver is not found, you may still have legal options. In many cases, you can file a claim under your own uninsured motorist (UM) policy (UM) policy, which provides coverage when the responsible party cannot be located or identified.
Our attorneys will review your insurance policy, communicate with your insurer, and take over all negotiations so you can avoid the stress of dealing with red tape.
We also explore other sources of compensation, such as:
- Collision or MedPay coverage under your policy
- Third-party liability (such as a negligent bar or vehicle owner)
- Crime victim restitution if the driver is later charged
Our goal is to maximize the compensation available to you, even under challenging circumstances.
What Types of Compensation Can I Recover?
Hit-and-run accidents can result in serious injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma. Our Charleston personal injury lawyers will fight to recover both economic and non-economic damages on your behalf.
Economic damages may include:
- Medical expenses and hospital bills
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Travel expenses for medical appointments
Non-economic damages may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Mental and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Loss of companionship or consortium
If the driver is later identified and their behavior is found to be particularly egregious, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish and deter similar conduct.
What Is the Time Limit to File a Hit-and-Run Lawsuit in West Virginia?
In West Virginia, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could cost you your right to compensation. The sooner you act, the better your chances of preserving evidence, identifying the driver, and securing a strong financial recovery.
Call Our Charleston Hit-and-Run Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
A hit-and-run crash can upend your life in seconds, but you don’t have to face the road to recovery alone. At Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers, we’ve been serving injured clients in Charleston and throughout West Virginia for decades.
Call now to schedule your free consultation with a Charleston hit-and-run accident lawyer.
Visit Our Personal Injury Law Office in Charleston, WV
Farmer, Cline & Campbell Personal Injury Lawyers
746 Myrtle Rd, Charleston
WV 25314
Open 24 hours
(304) 346-5990
