We Won’t Let A Hit-And-Run Keep You Down

Last updated on December 23, 2025

Getting into an accident is trouble enough, but when the other driver takes off without so much as a second glance, it causes even more problems. Who will cover the damages? Can you still get an insurance settlement? Navigating a hit-and-run claim is tough, but with the right help, you can still come out on top.

At Clary | Suba | Neale, we’re here for you, even if the other driver can’t be found. We’ve spent years helping people figure out car accident claims in all types of situations in Baton Rouge and throughout Louisiana. You can turn to us as a solid resource when your facing a serious personal injury case.

What Should You Do Immediately Following A Hit-And-Run Accident?

Taking prompt action after a hit-and-run can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Follow these critical steps:

• Secure the accident scene by moving to a safe location if possible and activate your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
• Call 911 immediately to report the incident and request police and medical assistance.
• Collect evidence, including photographs of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris and the surrounding area.
• Write down everything you remember about the fleeing vehicle, such as color, make, model, license plate numbers (even partial), distinctive features and the direction the driver fled.
• Look for witnesses who may have observed the collision or the fleeing vehicle and obtain their contact information.
• Check nearby businesses or residences for surveillance cameras that might have captured the incident.
• Document your injuries by photographing visible wounds, bruising or other physical trauma.
• Seek medical attention promptly even if injuries seem minor, as some conditions develop symptoms hours or days after impact.
• File a police report providing all gathered information, as this official documentation becomes essential when pursuing insurance claims.

These steps create the foundation for a successful claim whether the driver is later identified or remains unknown.

How Can You Get Compensated Without The Other Driver?

One of the most important steps to take after any car accident, but particularly a hit-and-run, is to call the police. The police will take a statement and may be able to track down the perpetrator of your accident. Interviewing witnesses and gathering other evidence, like taking photos, may also help you find the other driver. If this is the case, the other driver can be held accountable for their actions in the accident. They can also be prosecuted for criminal charges for leaving the scene. If the other driver is found, we can pursue compensation from them and/or their insurance company.

It’s still possible to recover compensation after a hit-and-run from your own insurance company, if you have uninsured motorist coverage. In many cases, a hit-and-run can make things slightly simpler. It can be easier to prove fault, as there is evidence that the other driver already broke the law by fleeing the scene, and we may be able to negotiate a better settlement. You may also be able to mitigate responsibility for the accident, as you are not responsible for damages caused by the other driver leaving the accident.

However, these cases are still relatively complicated when the other driver is not involved. It’s important to have a car accident attorney on your side who has experience negotiating hit-and-run settlements.

What Is The Deadline For Filing A Louisiana Hit-And-Run Claim?

Louisiana imposes a one-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims arising from car accidents, including hit-and-run collisions. This deadline begins running from the date of the accident, meaning you have exactly one year to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries. Missing the deadline typically results in permanent loss of your right to pursue compensation through the court system regardless of how strong your case may be.

The one-year timeframe applies whether the fleeing driver is identified or remains unknown. If authorities later identify the driver after several months have passed, you still face the original one-year deadline calculated from the accident date. Insurance claims through your uninsured motorist coverage may have different internal deadlines specified in your policy, often requiring notification within days or weeks of the incident. Starting the claims process immediately protects your interests.

Get Help Navigating A Hit-And-Run

Personal injury attorneys are essential in car accident cases. We can help ensure the process goes through smoothly and you get compensated without a lot of trouble on your end. When it comes to a hit-and-run, it’s even more important to have legal representation. Without the other driver’s information, or if a criminal case comes into play, it’s hard to get the process started. After an accident, you need compensation, fast.

One of our attorneys can make sure you get the money you need to move forward with your life, quickly and efficiently. We can take the burden of this process off your shoulders, so you can focus on recovering. Just reach out to get started. You can use our online contact form or call 225-228-3694, to schedule a free consultation with an experienced member of our legal team.