Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyer in Cheyenne, WY

What Is a Hit-And-Run Accident in Cheyenne, WY?

Statewide crash data for 2024 reported 1,244 hit-and-run accidents. In 2023, there were 316 hit-and-run crashes reported in the Cheyenne urban area.

A hit-and-run accident is when a driver is involved in a crash, but then leaves the scene. They may rear-end you and then pull off. They might hit pedestrians crossing the street and keep driving. They could even sideswipe your car in a parking lot while you are shopping and leave.

How Does Wyoming Law Treat Hit-And-Run Crashes?

Wyoming is an at-fault state, meaning the person responsible for the car accident must pay for any property damage and injuries they cause to another person.

With hit-and-run crashes, the state classifies them as serious criminal offences, not traffic offenses. If there is only property damage and no personal injuries or death, then it is treated as a misdemeanor hit and run. If there are injuries or death, then it is classified as a felony hit and run.

The criminal penalties, if the person is caught, convicted, and found guilty, are:

• Misdemeanor hit and run: Fines up to $750 and up to six months in jail.
• Felony hit and run: Fines up to $5,000, up to one year in jail, and possible license revocation.

In addition to criminal charges, victims have the right to pursue compensation in civil court by filing a hit-and-run lawsuit against the responsible party.

Common Causes of Hit-And-Run Accidents

A 2024 study by the Pew Research Center found that nearly six million crashes occur nationwide annually. Of those, there are between 860,000 and 900,000 hit-and-run crashes yearly, which equate to about two hit-and-run crashes every minute. The common causes for these types of accidents include:

• Driving under the influence: The most common cause for hit-and-run accidents is DUIs.
• No insurance: Some drivers leave the scene of an accident because they don’t have auto insurance.
• No license: Another reason people flee after a crash is when they are driving without a license.
• Preexisting legal issues: The fleeing driver may have an outstanding warrant.
• Committing a crime: The vehicle may be stolen, or they may be fleeing a crime scene and trying to avoid arrest.
• Panic: Sometimes panic can set in after a crash, especially among young and inexperienced drivers, causing them to flee.

Can I File an Insurance Claim After a Hit and Run?

In hit-and-run cases, you will initially have to file your insurance claim against your own insurance if you have UIM (uninsured motorists coverage). You may also recover compensation under your medical payments, collisions, and comprehensive coverage.

There may also be other options you could pursue. Even though you will be dealing with your insurance provider, it is still highly recommended to consult with a Wyoming hit-and-run lawyer first to ensure you are fully compensated for your losses.

How Is Fault Determined in a Hit-And-Run Case?

Fault is determined similarly to other car accidents. The only difference is that the other driver is not there to give a statement. Police will gather witness statements, review available physical evidence, and determine who was at fault.

Physical evidence could include:

• Skid marks
• Location of damage on your vehicle
• Broken lights
• Paint chips
• Traffic camera surveillance

In some cases, you could also be considered at fault or partially at fault. As long as you are less than 50% at fault, you can still recover compensation under the state’s modified comparative fault rule. 

What Compensation Can I Recover?

You can recover economic and non-economic damages up to your policy limits, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Prescription costs
• Physical rehab expenses
• Vehicle repairs
• Personal property losses
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment

Should the other driver be found and caught, you can initiate a hit-and-run lawsuit against them for further compensation you may be entitled to beyond your coverage limits.

Steps To Take After a Hit-And-Run Accident in Cheyenne

Never attempt to chase after a fleeing driver, as you could be putting yourself in danger. Instead, remain at the scene of the accident and follow these steps:

• Call 911 and report the accident to the police, and request immediate medical care if you or anyone else is injured.
• Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
• Speak to any witnesses to see if they got a license plate, make, model, or year of the other vehicle.
• Obtain contact information from all witnesses.
• Consult with a hit-and-run accident attorney as soon as possible to find out your legal rights and options.
• Notify your insurance company of the hit-and-run accident.

Why You Need a Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyer

Hit-and-run cases are complex and can leave you vulnerable to your insurance company’s tactics to limit your compensation.

A hit-and-run accident attorney can:

• Review your policy to determine your coverage limits.
• Assist with gathering evidence to support your claim.
• Hire a private investigator to help find the responsible driver.
• Handle all settlement negotiations with the insurance adjuster.
• Help secure maximum compensation allowed under your policy.
• Pursue civil legal actions against the other driver if they are caught.

How Bachus & Schanker Can Help

Bachus & Schanker can help you because we understand the uncertainties of being involved in a hit-and-run accident.

We offer honest, legal advice to help you obtain the compensation you deserve from your insurance company. We also explore all potential recovery options, thanks to our extensive knowledge of Cheyenne and Wyoming laws, including pursuing the other driver if they are caught.

There are never any upfront legal fees, and we only collect once we settle your case.

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