Being involved in a car accident is traumatic in any situation, but when the driver responsible for the crash flees the scene, the experience becomes even more devastating. You're left with injuries, property damage, and unanswered questions. Who will pay for your medical bills? Will your insurance cover the damage? Can you still recover financially even if the other driver is never found?
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run in Tennessee, the good news is that you still have options. The law in Tennessee provides avenues for victims to recover compensation, even when the at-fault driver disappears. Whether you were a driver, pedestrian, or cyclist, you may still be eligible to recover money for your injuries through your own auto insurance coverage, or in some cases, through a claim against the responsible driver if they are later identified.
Tennessee requires auto insurers to offer uninsured motorist (UM) coverage when issuing a policy. Unless you specifically declined it in writing, your insurance policy likely includes this protection. UM coverage steps in when the at-fault driver is either uninsured or cannot be identified, such as in a hit-and-run accident.
If you have UM coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurance company for:
Some UM policies also include uninsured property damage coverage, which can help pay for vehicle repairs if the driver who hit you is never found. However, the terms vary depending on your policy, so it’s important to review your coverage or speak with an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney to understand what your policy allows.
Filing a UM claim may sound simple, but insurance companies, your own included, are not always eager to pay out what you truly deserve. Adjusters may question your injuries, downplay the severity of the crash, or delay processing your claim. You may also face pressure to accept a low settlement early on, before the full extent of your injuries is clear.
Working with a personal injury lawyer can help ensure that your rights are protected. An attorney can help you:
At Glenn Injury Law, we have experience advocating for hit-and-run victims across Nashville and know how to push back when insurance companies don’t play fair. You don’t have to go through this process alone or settle for less than you’re owed.
While many hit-and-run drivers are never identified, there are cases where police are able to track them down. Surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, or even debris left at the scene can help law enforcement identify the vehicle and eventually the driver. If that happens, your legal options expand.
Once the driver is identified, you can file a personal injury claim directly against them. If they carry liability insurance, their policy may cover your medical expenses, property damage, and other losses. In cases involving serious negligence, such as a driver fleeing the scene while under the influence, you may also be entitled to punitive damages. These are awarded in addition to compensation for your losses and are intended to punish reckless behavior.
Even if the driver is uninsured or has minimal coverage, you may still rely on your UM policy to fill the gap. In some cases, both a direct lawsuit and a UM claim can be pursued simultaneously, depending on the circumstances.
The actions you take in the minutes, hours, and days after a hit-and-run accident can play a major role in your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what to do if you find yourself in this situation:
Acting quickly and thoroughly is key. Important evidence can be lost if too much time passes, and insurance companies may use delays to question the validity of your claim.
Hit-and-run accidents leave more than physical injuries; they leave emotional wounds, unanswered questions, and often financial stress. But just because the driver fled doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Whether you're relying on your uninsured motorist coverage or pursuing justice against a driver who has been identified, you have the right to seek compensation and hold wrongdoers accountable.
At Glenn Injury Law, we’ve built our practice around helping victims reclaim their peace of mind and financial security. Our team understands the unique challenges hit-and-run cases bring, and we’ll fight to ensure you are treated fairly every step of the way. From dealing with insurance companies to pursuing civil litigation, we’re here to make sure you’re not left carrying the burden alone.
If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident in Nashville, don’t wait. Contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll help you understand your legal rights and take the steps needed to pursue the full compensation you deserve.
