Hit and run accidents leave victims feeling powerless, but you have more options than you might think. Tennessee law provides pathways to compensation even when the at-fault driver vanishes. Knowing how to navigate the insurance process can make all the difference in your recovery.
Contact a car accident attorney in Knoxville today — call (865) 691-2777.
Your Legal Options After a Hit and Run in Tennessee
Tennessee operates as a fault state, which means the driver who caused your accident bears financial responsibility for your damages. In most crashes, you would file a claim against that driver’s liability insurance to cover medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. But hit and run accidents throw a wrench into this process—you can’t file a claim against someone you can’t identify.
This is where uninsured motorist (UM) coverage becomes essential. Under Tennessee Code Section 56-7-1201, insurance companies must offer UM coverage equal to your liability limits with every auto policy. You can only decline this coverage by putting it in writing.
UM coverage kicks in when the at-fault driver has no insurance at all, which includes situations where the driver flees and remains unidentified. Many Tennessee drivers carry this protection without realizing it, and this policy often proves valuable when a hit and run occurs.
Important Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident
The moments following a hit and run can feel chaotic, but the actions you take early on directly impact your ability to recover compensation later. Here’s what you should do:
- Try to note the fleeing vehicle’s license plate number, make, model, and color before the details fade from your memory.
- Call the police immediately to file an official accident report.
- Seek medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor or you don’t feel hurt. Some injuries do not show symptoms right away.
- Gather evidence at the scene by taking photos of your vehicle damage, the road conditions, and any debris left behind.
- Talk to witnesses and collect their contact information in case their statements become necessary later.
- Contact a Knoxville personal injury attorney before filing an insurance claim.
Does Your Insurance Claim Change If the Driver Is Found?
When police identify the hit and run driver, your situation shifts. The driver will likely face criminal charges, but more importantly for your recovery, a second path to compensation opens up. You may be able to file a claim against that driver’s liability insurance or pursue a personal injury lawsuit directly against them. Your own insurance company might still pay your UM claim initially, then seek reimbursement from the at-fault driver through a process called subrogation.
Speak to a Tennessee Hit and Run Accident Attorney Today
You shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s decision to flee the scene. If you have been injured in a hit and run accident, reach out to a Tennessee car accident attorney right away. A lawyer can evaluate your coverage, handle communications with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve while you seek medical care for your injuries.
Additionally, an attorney can work with law enforcement to help identify the at-fault driver when possible. They can also meet critical filing deadlines and avoid costly mistakes that could jeopardize your claim. To protect your best interests, schedule a free legal consultation and take the first step toward recovery.