Just think of a scenario where a driver hits you and runs from the scene. This Hit and Run in Calgary can be a life-changing incident for you. This awful event has not only physically injured you but also emotionally shattered you. You’re left all alone, struggling with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
Dealing with these types of drastic issues can be very confusing and stressful. So there are many queries, questions regarding your rights, medical bills, and more that may come to your mind. This stuff will be explained in this article, and this will help you Learn what you need to know about hit-and-run accidents and how a personal injury lawyer in Calgary can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run
The first few minutes after a hit and run are essential. If you can physically do so, the following actions can greatly help your case:
Safety First
The first and immediate action to take is to get yourself and any passengers to a safe place out of traffic. Safety should be your topmost priority.
Call 911
After you and your passengers (if any) are at a safe accident place that is away from traffic, immediately report the accident to the police. You have to provide as much information as possible, like the make, model, colour, and any distinguishing features of the vehicle. This step will help catch the perpetrator.
Collect Information
If there are any eyewitnesses, get their contact information in case they are needed later. Write down any information you can about the vehicle’s direction of escape.
Record the Scene
Photograph or record video of the damage to your car, the scene surrounding it, and the visible injuries. This will serve as proof during litigation.
Get Medical Treatment
Even if you don’t feel badly hurt, getting medical treatment right away is essential. Some injuries don’t show up for a while, so it’s essential to get checked by a doctor.
Knowing Your Rights in a Calgary Hit and Run
One thing you must know is that you have certain rights as a victim of a Hit and Run in Calgary. These are meant to shield you financially and legally:
Direct Compensation for Property Damage (DCPD)
Under DCPD, you must know that your insurance company will pay for the damage to your vehicle, irrespective of fault . This will help reduce some financial burden off your shoulders.
Section B Benefits
No matter whose fault it was, under section B benefits, you’re entitled to get paid for medical bills, rehabilitation, and lost wages. Now, you don’t have to worry about who will pay the bills. Rest assured, and focus on recovering.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If the driver at fault doesn’t have any insurance or is unknown, your own policy’s uninsured motorist coverage will apply. This coverage assists in paying you for injuries and losses.
Civil Lawsuit
You can file a civil lawsuit against the responsible driver if they are known to you, claiming for pain, suffering, and other losses in excess of what your insurance will pay.
Why Hire a Calgary Personal Injury Lawyer?
The Personal Injury Attorney’s Role in Calgary is always important.
Seeking justice through the legal system can be overwhelming. This is where a personal injury attorney is invaluable. Here’s why:
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
The first step is to seek for the justice is to investigate the case properly and thoroughly. A lawyer will always perform an extensive investigation and then collect evidence of data, including police reports, witness testimony, and video footage, to develop a strong and solid case. The evidence that the lawyer collects is the key to getting you the maximum compensation.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies usually seek to reduce payouts, and they use various tactics. Many people decide to navigate the case on their own, but that’s not possible. Insurance companies’ tactics are often complex. But a hit-and-run lawyer in Calgary can help you deal with them, ensuring that you are compensated adequately.
Calculating Damages
The next step is to calculate the actual damages. The calculation of the damage will include medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and future possible damages. Collecting and calculating all the damages is necessary to get the maximum compensation.
Legal Representation
If the at-fault driver is known, a lawyer will appear with you in court, fighting to protect your rights and maximize your recovery.
Selecting the Right Personal Injury Lawyer in Calgary
It is always important to choose the right lawyer to get the required compensation. But choosing a lawyer is a challenge. Here are some important points on how to choose the right personal injury lawyer in Calgary.
Experience
The first step when starting to look for a reliable law firm is to look for the years of experience lawyers have. Find a lawyer with a reasonable success rate in dealing with hit-and-run cases. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complexities easily.
Reputation
Another thing to look for in a lawyer or a law firm is their reputation. Check reviews and testimonials to understand the reputation of the lawyer and client satisfaction. Read both negative and positive reviews to judge if the law firm is good or not.
Communication
Do you know that communication is the key to the success of any case? Selecting a lawyer who communicates clearly and keeps you up to date along the way is essential. They can help you learn about your rights and even guide you about the case.
Contingency Fee Basis
Most personal injury attorneys operate on a contingency fee basis, so they will only receive compensation if you are successful.
Wrapping Up: Taking Control of Your Recovery
A hit-and-run crash can be a life-changing experience. But by being aware of your rights and consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Calgary, you can take charge of the recovery process and claim the compensation that you deserve
Don’t forget, you don’t have to do it alone. Your Lawyers are there to assist you during this difficult period, making sure that your voice is heard and your rights secured.
FAQs for Hit and Run in Calgary:
1. What should I do immediately after a hit and run in Calgary?
✅ Call 911 to report the accident to the police.
✅ Document the scene (take photos, note the time/location, gather witness info).
✅ Seek medical attention (even if injuries seem minor).
✅ Contact a hit-and-run lawyer to protect your rights.
2. How long do I have to report a hit-and-run in Alberta?
🚨 Report to police within 24 hours (required by Alberta law).
🚨 File an insurance claim ASAP (deadlines vary by provider).
3. Can I still get compensation if the hit-and-run driver isn’t found?
💡 Yes! Options include:
- Section B Insurance (Alberta) – Covers medical/rehab costs.
- Collision Coverage – If you have it, repairs your vehicle.
- Civil Lawsuit – If the driver is later identified.
4. What if I was partially at fault in a hit-and-run?
⚖️ Alberta follows modified comparative negligence—you can still recover damages, but compensation may be reduced based on your fault percentage.
5. Why hire a Calgary hit-and-run lawyer?
🔍 A lawyer can:
- Investigate the accident (security footage, witness statements).
- Negotiate with insurance companies for maximum compensation.
- File a lawsuit if needed.
6. What compensation can I claim after a hit-and-run?
💰 Possible damages include:
- Vehicle repairs/replacement
- Medical bills & rehab costs
- Lost wages
- Pain & suffering
7. How much does a hit-and-run lawyer cost?
💵 cost may vary according to the case and the lawyer. The Most of people work on a contingency fee (pay only if they win your case).
8. Where do most hit-and-runs happen in Calgary?
📍 High-risk areas: Downtown, Deerfoot Trail, 17th Avenue SE and so on
Victim of a hit-and-run in Calgary? Learn your rights, steps to take, and how a personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation. Free consultation available
