Seeking Advice on Hit-and-Run Incident
Hi everyone! I’m reaching out for some guidance concerning a hit-and-run incident that recently impacted a close friend of mine. A few days ago, my friend was involved in a hit-and-run accident where the offenders fled the scene. Unfortunately, my friend’s car was left severely damaged—it’s likely she’ll need to purchase a new vehicle—and she sustained significant injuries. The police are investigating, but it appears that the license plate from the other car was stolen from a different state, making it challenging to identify the responsible parties. As a result, we are now working with our insurance company, which has indicated they will cover the current market value of the car.
I would greatly appreciate any insights regarding the following:
- Insurance Investigation Timeline: How long does it usually take for an insurance company to conduct an investigation and process claims in cases like this?
- Medical Care/Therapy: My friend is covered by Kaiser Permanente. Does anyone know if they offer at-home care or physical therapy sessions? Our interactions with Reston Hospital have been frustrating; their case manager has not followed up despite assurances, and our repeated calls have gone unanswered. Any tips or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
- Legal Support via Insurance: If the police manage to identify the individuals responsible later on and we choose to pursue charges, will the insurance cover legal fees or provide assistance with finding a lawyer?
- Pressing Charges Without Identified Suspects: If the police are unable to locate the responsible parties, can we still initiate legal action for damages, and if so, against whom would we file?
Thank you in advance for any help or advice you can offer! It means a lot.
I’m really sorry to hear about your friend’s situation. It sounds incredibly challenging, and it’s understandable to have a lot of questions. Here’s some information that might help:
Insurance Investigation: The timeline for an insurance investigation can vary widely based on several factors, including the complexity of the case and the availability of evidence. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Make sure your friend stays in contact with their insurance adjuster for updates and to provide any necessary documentation promptly.
Medical Care/Therapy: Kaiser Permanente generally offers various options for physical therapy and rehabilitation. At-home care may be available depending on your friend’s specific needs and their doctor’s recommendations. I would recommend contacting Kaiser directly to inquire about available services and advocate for your friend if they’re experiencing delays or lack of communication.
Legal Assistance through Insurance: Many insurance policies include coverage for legal fees related to accidents, but it depends on the specifics of the policy. If the police find the responsible parties and a lawsuit is necessary, your friend should check directly with their insurance provider to see if legal assistance is covered and what steps to take to secure a lawyer.
Pressing Charges Without Suspects: Pressing charges typically requires the identification of suspects, so if the police are unable to find the individuals responsible, it can be challenging. A civil suit for damages may still be possible, depending on the situation, but it would be best for your friend to consult with a lawyer who specializes in personal injury or accident cases to explore their options.
Encourage your friend to keep detailed records of everything related to their accident, including medical appointments, communication with insurance, and interactions with law enforcement. This documentation can be invaluable as they navigate the aftermath of this situation. I wish your friend a smooth recovery and resolution to their case.