A Rhode Island hit-and-run accident is one of the most unsettling experiences a driver can face. In Rhode Island, these types of accidents leave victims not only injured and shaken but also unsure about their legal and financial options. If you’re asking whether you can still recover compensation after a hit-and-run, the answer is yes—though the process can be complex.
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we focus on helping Rhode Islanders understand their legal rights and recover financially after hit-and-run accidents. Here’s what you should know if you’re in this situation.
Injured in a Rhode Island hit-and-run accident. Bottaro Injury Lawyers is here 24/7 to help you.
Can You Receive Compensation After a Rhode Island Hit-and-Run Accident?
Yes, you can. If you’re in a hit-and-run accident in Rhode Island, there are still ways for you to get compensation, even if the person who caused the accident is never identified.
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
Most Rhode Island auto insurance policies include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage helps pay your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses when the at-fault driver has no insurance—or cannot be identified, such as in a hit-and-run.
You may be able to file a UM claim through your insurer. Filing the claim under your UM policy is often the best route when police can’t identify the driver who caused the crash. At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we help clients properly file their UM claims.
Identifying the At-Fault Driver
Sometimes, local law enforcement may be able to track down the at-fault driver using witness statements, surveillance footage, or vehicle description details. Once the driver is located, you may pursue a standard personal injury claim against their insurance policy.
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we coordinate with investigators and police departments to uncover key evidence that supports your claim.
What Steps Should You Take After a Rhode Island Hit-and-Run Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to know how to take care of yourself and handle the situation properly. Here are a few simple steps you can take following a Rhode Island hit-and-run accident.
1. Call the Police
Always report a hit-and-run to law enforcement. A police report is an essential part of any insurance claim and starts the process of attempting to identify the driver.
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we can help you obtain and interpret police reports to strengthen your case.
2. Get Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, visit a doctor. Some injuries, like concussions or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away. Documenting your injuries early is key.
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we guide clients in preserving medical evidence, which is crucial for a strong injury claim.
3. Collect Evidence at the Scene
Take photos of the damage, any tire marks, and your surroundings. Write down anything you remember about the fleeing vehicle.
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we help clients gather and present this evidence effectively during settlement negotiations or litigation.
4. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Let your insurer know about the crash. However, be cautious with recorded statements or accepting offers without legal advice.
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we communicate with insurance companies to protect our clients from lowball settlements.
5. Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney
An attorney can help you understand your legal rights and identify all potential sources of compensation.
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we offer free consultations and no legal fees unless we win.
What Does the Law Say About a Rhode Island Hit-and-Run Accident?
Rhode Island law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop and provide information. Fleeing the scene is a criminal offense under R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-26-1. A driver who leaves the scene of an injury crash can face fines, license suspension, and even jail time. As the criminal case is handled by the state, you can still pursue civil compensation for your injuries, even if the driver is never found.
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we assist clients by using police findings in the civil claims process to support liability and fault.
What Types of Compensation Can You Pursue in a Rhode Island Hit-and-Run Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run, you may be eligible for compensation to cover:
- Medical treatment and future care
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
Every situation is unique. The amount of money you could receive for your claim depends on how serious your injuries are, the medical care you may need, and the impact on your daily life. At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we work with our clients to figure out what their claims are really worth and to ensure they get the fair compensation they deserve.
Rhode Island’s Statute of Limitations
Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-14, you typically have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, insurance claims should be initiated much sooner. Acting quickly can also make a difference in locating witnesses and preserving evidence. At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, our priority is your full recovery, we manage deadlines and each step of the process so you can focus on healing.
Why Work With Bottaro Injury Lawyers?
We’ve handled Rhode Island hit-and-run accident injury cases for years, helping Rhode Islanders recover the money they need after devastating accidents. Our experience with insurance companies, investigators, and the legal system helps us get you the best possible recovery.
We provide:
- Free consultations
- No legal fees unless we win
- 24/7 availability
- Appointments in person, at home, in the hospital, or virtually
At Bottaro Injury Lawyers, we take pride in helping injury victims throughout Rhode Island with understanding, professionalism, and effective results.
Contact Bottaro Injury Lawyers Today
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a Rhode Island hit-and-run accident, don’t wait. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chance of recovering full compensation.
Call or text (401) 777-7777 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Contact us today. We’re available 24/7 and ready to get started.
