How Can I Recover Compensation After a Motorcycle Hit-And-Run in Ohio?
Accidents involving motorcycles often result in severe injuries and sometimes tragic fatalities. Unfortunately, not every driver involved in a crash with a motorcycle stops at the accident scene. Your situation can feel stressful when a negligent driver causes an accident and flees. If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run motorcycle crash, you may not have had the opportunity to note critical details like the vehicle’s license plate or other identifying information, leaving you wondering how to recover compensation for injuries and losses. In this article, we explore various ways in which you can navigate this challenging situation.
Common Reasons for Motorcycle Hit-And-Run Accidents in Ohio
The most common reasons for motorcycle hit-and-run accidents in Ohio include:
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Lack of insurance
- Fear of legal consequences
- Panic
- Lack of a valid driver’s license
- Previous driving offenses
What Are Your Options for Recovering Compensation?
If you have been involved in a motorcycle hit-and-run accident in Ohio, you may have several avenues to recover damages. These include the following:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage
UM/UIM coverage protects you financially when the at-fault driver either lacks insurance, has insufficient insurance, or cannot be identified, as in hit-and-run cases. This optional coverage can help pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Other damages resulting from the accident
While not mandatory in Ohio, UM/UIM coverage is highly recommended for motorcyclists due to the unique risks they face on the road. This includes covering losses in the event of a hit-and-run accident. It is worth noting that insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, even for valid claims. However, an experienced Ohio motorcycle accident attorney can advocate for you to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
- Medical Payments Coverage (MedPay)
MedPay coverage is another optional policy addition you can turn to if you are involved in a motorcycle hit-and-run accident in Ohio. MedPay helps cover medical expenses from a motorcycle crash, regardless of who is at fault. It typically covers:
- Out-of-pocket costs for medical treatment
- Reimbursement for unpaid medical bills
One essential thing to note about MedPay coverage is that it does not cover lost wages or pain and suffering. MedPay also has specific time limits for submitting claims, which vary depending on the insurance company.
- Collision Coverage for Motorcycle Repairs
Collision coverage is another valuable option that helps cover the cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle following a crash, regardless of fault. While optional, this coverage can be beneficial if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, saving you from significant out-of-pocket motorcycle repair expenses.
- Compensation Claim or Lawsuit Against the Driver
If you or law enforcement officers manage to locate the hit-and-run driver, you can file a claim with their insurance company. If the driver does not have insurance or carries insufficient coverage, you may file a lawsuit against them to recover your losses. This way, you can include any expenses covered by your UM/UIM, MedPay, or personal health insurance in your claim.
Contact Our Columbus Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you or someone you love has been involved in a motorcycle hit-and-run accident in Columbus, Ohio, contact our motorcycle accident attorney at the law office of Brian G. Miller CO., L.L.C., for trusted legal support.
