Seeking Guidance on a Hit-and-Run Incident
Hello everyone! I could really use some advice regarding a hit-and-run incident that recently affected a close friend of mine. A few days ago, they were struck by another vehicle whose occupants then fled the scene. My friend’s car was seriously damaged—it’s likely that they will need to replace it entirely—and they have sustained significant injuries. The police are investigating, but it appears that the license plate on the other vehicle was stolen from another state, complicating efforts to identify the perpetrators. As a result, we are now navigating the claims process with our insurance company, who has indicated they will cover the car’s current value.
I would appreciate any insights or advice on the following points:
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Insurance Investigation Timeline: How long does it usually take for an insurance company to wrap up their investigation and process a claim in similar cases?
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Medical Care/Therapy: My friend is covered by Kaiser Permanente. Does anyone know if they offer at-home care or physical therapy sessions? We’ve been facing challenges with Reston Hospital, as their case manager has been unresponsive, despite repeated follow-ups about scheduling therapy. Any suggestions or experiences would be immensely helpful.
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Legal Help through Insurance: If the police do manage to locate the individuals involved and we opt to pursue charges, can anyone share if the insurance company typically covers legal fees or offers assistance in finding a lawyer?
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Pressing Charges Without Identified Suspects: If the police are unable to identify the responsible parties, is it still feasible to press charges for damages? If so, who would we press charges against?
Thank you in advance for any guidance or support you can provide! I appreciate it immensely.
I’m really sorry to hear about your friend’s situation. It sounds incredibly challenging, and I hope they recover quickly. Here’s some information that might help you navigate this situation:
Insurance Investigation: The time it takes for an insurance company to complete an investigation can vary widely. Generally, you can expect anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the case. Since this involves a hit-and-run and potentially stolen license plates, it might take longer. It’s a good idea to stay in regular contact with the insurance adjuster to get updates on the progress of the claim.
Medical Care/Therapy: Kaiser Permanente typically provides physical therapy and rehabilitation services, and in some cases, they may offer at-home care. It’s best to contact their member services directly to inquire about specific options available to your friend. Additionally, consider asking for a patient advocate within Kaiser’s system to help navigate the frustrating experiences with care coordination. They can assist in ensuring your friend receives the necessary follow-up.
Legal Assistance through Insurance: Many insurance policies include some form of legal assistance for personal injury claims and other legal matters, but coverage can vary. If the at-fault party is identified, your friend may have grounds to pursue legal action against them. It’s important to clarify with the insurance company what is covered regarding legal fees. If necessary, consulting with a personal injury lawyer separately can also provide insight into possible legal options.
Pressing Charges Without Suspects: Pressing charges typically requires the identification of a suspect and a criminal offense. If the police are unable to find the individuals responsible, pursuing charges directly may be more challenging. However, your friend may still file a civil suit for damages against an unknown defendant, but this can be complicated and usually requires legal advice to navigate effectively.
I hope this information helps you and your friend. It may also be beneficial for your friend to consult with a legal professional who specializes in personal injury cases for more tailored guidance on their situation. Wishing them a smooth recovery and resolution to this incident.