Injured in a Fort Myers Hit and Run? Here's How an Attorney Can Help

One in four Florida car crashes leaves you with no one to hold accountable because the at-fault driver fled the scene. This shocking reality affects thousands of accident victims across the Sunshine State every year. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles confirms that 25 percent of crashes are hit-and-run accidents - a statistic that should concern every driver on Fort Myers roads.

When you become the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Fort Myers, you face a double burden. Not only are you dealing with serious injuries that can range from whiplash to traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and psychological trauma like PTSD, but you're also left without an obvious responsible party to pursue for compensation. Without experienced legal representation, you might struggle to recover the money you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

We understand that hit-and-run cases require specialized knowledge of Florida law that goes far beyond typical car accident claims. While hit-and-run accidents resulting in serious injuries are considered second or first-degree felonies, the legal system can feel overwhelming when you're trying to recover from your injuries. A skilled hit-and-run accident attorney will not only investigate your case thoroughly but also protect your rights throughout the entire process - ensuring you don't become another victim who falls through the cracks of a complex legal system.

What to Do Right After a Hit-and-Run in Fort Myers

The moments right after a hit-and-run accident in Fort Myers can feel chaotic and overwhelming. We understand the shock and confusion you're experiencing, but taking the right steps immediately can protect your safety and strengthen any future legal claims.

Move to a safe location

Your safety comes first. If your vehicle is still drivable and you're blocking traffic, carefully move it to a secure area away from oncoming vehicles. Turn on your hazard lights right away to increase visibility. Set up reflective triangles or flares if you have them - other drivers need to see you clearly. Staying in an unsafe location after an accident only increases your risk of getting hurt again.

Call 911 and report the crash

Call 911 immediately, even if you think your injuries are minor. Law enforcement must create an official accident report that becomes essential evidence for insurance claims and any legal action we might take on your behalf. When you speak with the police, give them every detail you can remember about the fleeing vehicle - make, model, color, license plate numbers (even partial ones), and any distinguishing features. This information becomes crucial evidence when your attorney investigates your case later.

Check for injuries and seek medical help

Check yourself and any passengers for injuries carefully. Adrenaline can mask pain, so injuries might not feel serious right away. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention promptly. Certain conditions like whiplash, internal bleeding, and concussions often don't show symptoms until hours or days later. Getting medical documentation immediately creates a clear connection between the crash and your injuries - something that strengthens your legal claim significantly.

Avoid chasing the fleeing driver

Your instinct might tell you to chase the driver who hit you, but don't do it. Following a hit-and-run driver puts you in danger and could lead to more accidents or confrontations with someone already showing reckless behavior. Stay at the scene instead. Gather information, talk to witnesses, and let law enforcement handle tracking down the driver. Your safety matters more than anything else, and a skilled attorney can help you pursue justice regardless of whether the police identify the driver immediately.

How to Collect Evidence That Supports Your Case

Evidence collection becomes a race against time after any hit-and-run accident. Memories fade, witnesses disappear, and physical proof gets cleaned up or overwritten within hours or days. The evidence you gather immediately can make the difference between a successful claim and walking away empty-handed.

Take photos and videos of the scene

Document everything from multiple angles while you're still at the crash site. Photograph your vehicle damage, skid marks, debris scattered across the road, and the overall accident location. Don't forget to capture street signs, traffic signals, and road conditions that might have contributed to the crash. Close-up shots showing paint transfer from the fleeing vehicle can provide the key evidence needed to identify the hit-and-run driver.

Time works against you here - physical evidence disappears fast when cleanup crews arrive or weather conditions change.

Write down details about the other vehicle

Your memory of the fleeing vehicle details will never be sharper than right now. Write down everything you can remember: make, model, color, distinguishing features like bumper stickers, dents, or existing damage. Even a partial license plate number can help law enforcement track down the responsible party. The more specific details you provide to your attorney, the better chance we have of identifying the driver who hit you.

Talk to witnesses and get their contact info

Witness statements provide unbiased accounts that can establish fault and help identify the fleeing driver. Approach anyone who saw the accident happen and collect their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. Don't wait - witnesses often leave quickly, and getting this information at the scene might be your only chance. Their testimony can strengthen your claim and provide crucial details you might have missed in the chaos.

Look for nearby surveillance or dashcam footage

Check for security cameras on nearby businesses, traffic lights, or residential properties that might have captured the incident. Many Fort Myers area locations have surveillance systems that could hold the key to your case. Note camera locations immediately so your attorney can send preservation letters before the footage gets overwritten - most systems automatically delete recordings within days.

Get a copy of the police report

Request the police report number while you're still at the scene, then obtain a complete copy as soon as it becomes available. This document contains the responding officer's observations, witness statements, and sometimes conclusions about fault. Insurance companies rely heavily on police reports when processing hit-and-run claims. Your attorney will use this official record to strengthen your position during settlement negotiations or court proceedings.

How a Hit and Run Accident Attorney Can Help

The aftermath of a hit-and-run accident leaves many victims feeling lost and wondering what legal options remain. We understand that being injured in an accident can have a major impact on your life, and when the responsible driver disappears, that impact becomes even more devastating. At Pittman Law Firm, P.L., our team brings over 30 years of specialized expertise to these complex situations.

Investigate the crash and find the driver

We treat every case like we were handling it for a family member. Our hit and run accident attorney meticulously examines the crash scene, interviews witnesses, and reviews surveillance footage to identify the fleeing driver. We often uncover crucial evidence that police investigations miss, working with accident reconstruction experts to piece together exactly what happened. Don't become another victim who gets overlooked - we fight to find answers when others give up.

Work with police and private investigators

We maintain ongoing communication with law enforcement throughout the investigation process. Our firm collaborates with private investigators who specialize in hit-and-run cases, using advanced techniques and resources to track down the responsible party. We work tirelessly to get you the best results.

Handle communication with insurance companies

Don't get lost in all the phone calls and paperwork. Your attorney serves as your shield against insurance companies that attempt to minimize your claim. We manage all communications and prevent unfair tactics so you can focus on recovery and healing.

File claims under uninsured motorist coverage

When the driver remains unidentified, we can file claims under your uninsured motorist coverage to help with expenses while the search continues. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there is no fee unless we win your case.

Negotiate for full compensation

We calculate all potential damages - including long-term effects and non-economic losses - ensuring you receive maximum compensation. Trust us to be prepared and fight for your right to receive full compensation for you and your loved ones.

Represent you in court if needed

Should your case proceed to trial, we will manage all legal proceedings and present your case effectively. Unlike many firms, we will not treat you like a "number" or a "case". At our family-run law firm, we approach each client with personal service, compassion, and respect because we know how difficult this experience may be for you and your family.

Contact us today to start with a no-obligation consultation. We are ready to fight for you!

Understanding Your Insurance and Legal Rights

Florida's insurance system becomes your lifeline after a hit-and-run crash, but understanding these protections requires experience that most accident victims simply don't have. We guide our clients through every step of the insurance process, ensuring you recover financially while you focus on healing physically.

What PIP covers in Florida

Florida law requires all drivers to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. This coverage provides up to $10,000 for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, you'll only receive the full amount if a doctor diagnoses an Emergency Medical Condition—otherwise, benefits cap at $2,500. PIP typically covers 80% of medical expenses and 60% of lost wages if you can't work. Remember to seek medical attention within 14 days of the accident to qualify for these benefits.

How uninsured motorist coverage works

While optional in Florida, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage becomes invaluable after hit-and-runs. Insurance companies treat fleeing drivers as uninsured motorists. This coverage steps in to pay for injuries beyond PIP limits, including long-term care costs. If you own multiple vehicles with UM coverage, you might "stack" these benefits for greater protection. We help our clients understand exactly how much coverage they have available and fight to maximize every dollar.

When to use collision coverage

Unlike PIP, which only covers injuries, collision coverage pays for vehicle repairs regardless of fault. This optional insurance becomes essential when the at-fault driver remains unidentified. Though typically requiring a deductible, collision coverage provides peace of mind knowing your car repairs will be covered. We work directly with insurance companies to handle your property damage claim so you don't get lost in paperwork and phone calls.

Filing a civil lawsuit if the driver is found

Should authorities locate the hit-and-run driver, we can file a claim against their insurance. If your injuries meet Florida's "serious injury threshold" (permanent injury, significant scarring, or loss of bodily function), you may pursue compensation beyond insurance limits. Florida's statute of limitations gives you two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. We treat every case like we were handling it for a family member, ensuring no stone goes unturned in pursuing the full compensation you deserve.

Conclusion

Hit-and-run accidents leave victims facing an overwhelming situation - not only are you dealing with serious injuries, but you're also left without a clear path to justice. We understand that being injured in an accident can have a major impact on your life, and when the responsible driver flees the scene, the challenges multiply.

Your insurance coverage provides some protection through PIP benefits, uninsured motorist coverage, and collision protection, but these complex policies require careful attention to detail. Don't get lost in all the phone calls and paperwork with insurance companies who may try to minimize your claim.

The right legal representation makes all the difference. At Pittman Law Firm, P.L., we treat every case like we were handling it for a family member. Unlike large firms where you become just another file number, we provide the personal attention and dedicated service you deserve during this difficult time. Our team brings specialized investigative resources to track down fleeing drivers and fights for the full compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Don't face this challenging situation alone. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there is no fee unless we win your case. If you have been injured in an accident and need a lawyer, call Pittman Law Firm, P.L. today for a free consultation.

Hit-and-run accidents might leave you feeling helpless, but with our experienced legal team advocating for your rights, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal battle. Trust us to be prepared and fight for your right to receive full compensation for you and your loved ones.

Key Takeaways

Hit-and-run accidents affect 1 in 4 Florida crashes, making immediate action and legal representation crucial for protecting your rights and securing compensation.

• Act immediately after the crash: Move to safety, call 911, document everything with photos, and seek medical attention within 14 days to preserve PIP benefits.

• Collect evidence quickly: Gather witness information, note vehicle details, and identify nearby surveillance cameras before evidence disappears or gets overwritten.

• Leverage your insurance coverage: Use PIP for immediate medical expenses, uninsured motorist coverage for additional protection, and collision coverage for vehicle repairs.

• Hire a specialized attorney: Hit-and-run lawyers investigate crashes, work with private investigators, handle insurance communications, and maximize your compensation.

• Understand your legal timeline: Florida gives you two years to file a personal injury lawsuit if the fleeing driver is found, making prompt legal action essential.

Even when the at-fault driver flees, you still have multiple avenues for recovery through insurance coverage and legal action. An experienced hit-and-run attorney can navigate these complex cases while you focus on healing from your injuries.

FAQs

Q1. Is it necessary to hire an attorney for a hit-and-run accident in Fort Myers? Yes, hiring an attorney for a hit-and-run accident is highly recommended. An experienced lawyer can help investigate the crash, work with law enforcement, handle insurance communications, and negotiate for maximum compensation. They can also file claims under uninsured motorist coverage if the driver isn't found and represent you in court if needed.

Q2. What should I do immediately after a hit-and-run accident in Fort Myers? After a hit-and-run accident, move to a safe location, call 911 to report the crash, check for injuries and seek medical help, and avoid chasing the fleeing driver. It's crucial to collect evidence by taking photos of the scene, noting details about the other vehicle, talking to witnesses, and looking for nearby surveillance footage.

Q3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit for a hit-and-run accident in Florida? In Florida, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit for a hit-and-run accident. However, it's best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all necessary steps are taken to protect your rights and gather evidence.

Q4. What types of insurance coverage can help me after a hit-and-run accident? In Florida, Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage can help with initial medical expenses and lost wages. Uninsured motorist coverage is crucial for hit-and-run accidents, as it can cover injuries beyond PIP limits. Collision coverage can help pay for vehicle repairs regardless of fault.

Q5. Can I still receive compensation if the hit-and-run driver is never found? Yes, you can still receive compensation even if the hit-and-run driver is never found. Your uninsured motorist coverage can provide compensation for injuries beyond PIP limits. Additionally, your collision coverage can help pay for vehicle repairs. An experienced attorney can help you navigate these insurance claims to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship with Pittman Law Firm, P.L.