St. Louis Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

Being involved in a car accident is always stressful. But when the other driver flees the scene, that stress turns into anger and confusion. You are left with a damaged vehicle, potential injuries, and no one to exchange insurance information with. You might be wondering who will pay for your medical bills and how you will get justice.

At The Super Lawyer, we understand how frustrating a hit and run accident can be. You shouldn’t have to pay for someone else’s reckless behavior. Our experienced legal team is here to help you navigate the complex legal process, find compensation, and protect your rights. We handle the investigation and the insurance companies so you can focus on healing.

What is a Hit and Run Accident in Missouri?

In Missouri, a hit and run occurs when a driver is involved in a collision and fails to stop. Under Missouri Revised Statutes §577.060, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense. The law requires anyone involved in a crash to stop, provide their information, and render assistance if someone is hurt.

When a driver flees, they are breaking the law. However, a criminal charge against the driver doesn’t automatically pay for your car repairs or hospital bills. That is why you need to file a civil personal injury claim. Even if the police cannot find the criminal, you still have options to recover money for your losses.

Steps to Take Immediately After a Hit and Run

The moments after a crash are chaotic, but the actions you take can make a big difference in your case. If you are physically able, follow these steps:

• Call 911: Report the accident immediately. Ask for the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department or the nearest authority to come to the scene. A police report is a vital piece of evidence.
• Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel okay, see a doctor. Adrenaline can hide pain. Documenting your injuries early connects them directly to the crash.
• Gather Evidence: Take photos of your car, the scene, skid marks, and any debris. If you saw the other car, write down the color, make, model, and any part of the license plate number you remember.
• Talk to Witnesses: If anyone saw the crash, get their names and phone numbers. They might have seen the driver who fled.
• Notify Your Insurance: Tell your insurance company about the accident, but be careful what you say before speaking to a lawyer.

Compensation Options: Uninsured Motorist Coverage

The biggest fear victims have is that they won’t get paid if the other driver isn’t caught. Fortunately, you likely have protection already. In Missouri, drivers are required to carry Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM).

When the at-fault driver is unknown (as in a hit and run), your own insurance company steps into the shoes of the missing driver. You can file a claim against your own UM policy to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible, even to their own customers. We help you negotiate a fair settlement.

How We Investigate Unidentified Drivers

Just because the driver fled doesn’t mean they can’t be found. Our team works hard to identify the responsible party. We use various methods to investigate:

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• Reviewing footage from traffic cameras, security cameras at nearby businesses, or dashcams.
• Interviewing witnesses who may have seen the license plate.
• Working with law enforcement to follow up on the police report.
• Checking records with the Missouri Department of Revenue regarding vehicle ownership if a partial plate is found.

Even if we cannot find the driver, we build a strong case to prove that a “phantom vehicle” caused your crash, ensuring you can access your uninsured motorist benefits.

Common Injuries from Hit and Run Crashes

Hit and run accidents can happen at high speeds or in parking lots. The injuries can range from minor to life-altering. We represent clients suffering from:

• Soft tissue injuries: Whiplash, sprains, and strains that can cause long-term pain.
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI): Concussions and serious head injuries.
• Broken bones and fractures.
• Spinal cord injuries.
• Cuts, bruises, and lacerations.

Missouri Statute of Limitations for Claims

You do not have unlimited time to take legal action. The statute of limitations in Missouri generally gives you five years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, insurance policies often have much stricter deadlines for reporting a hit and run—sometimes as short as 24 hours or 30 days.

If you miss these deadlines, you could lose your right to compensation forever. It is best to contact a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure all paperwork is filed on time.

No Upfront Cost: Our Contingency Fee

We believe everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That is why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means:

• You pay $0 upfront to hire us.
• We pay for the costs of investigating your case.
• You only pay us a legal fee if we win your case and get you money.

If we don’t win, you don’t pay for our time. It is a risk-free way to get the legal support you need.