Have you been injured in a hit and run accident in Peoria, Illinois? Joel E. Brown, P.C. is here to help. Our Peoria hit & run accident lawyers will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (309) 673-4357 today for a free consultation.
Our founding attorney has more than 30 years of experience representing injured people across llinois and has won millions of dollars for clients. The firm focuses on holding negligent drivers accountable and protecting the rights of crash victims. Reach out today to get started.
Why Choose Joel E. Brown, P.C. for a Peoria Hit & Run Case?
Hit and run claims in Peoria, IL, require fast action, careful investigation, and a strong legal strategy. Joel E. Brown, P.C. brings decades of trial experience to these difficult cases.
When you hire our Peoria personal injury lawyer, you’re hiring a firm with the following accolades:
- Over 30 years of experience handling serious injury cases in Illinois.
- Proven results with millions recovered for injured clients.
- Recognition as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer in America.
- Membership in the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
- Direct, hands-on representation focused on client results.
This experience allows the firm to handle complex hit and run cases with confidence. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Peoria hit & run accident attorney.
What Is a Hit & Run Accident?
A hit and run accident happens when a driver causes a crash and leaves without stopping to provide information or help. These crashes can involve cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians. In Illinois, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense. Even so, many drivers flee because they are uninsured, impaired, or trying to avoid responsibility.
Victims are often left with unanswered questions, but legal options may still be available.
Common Causes of Hit & Run Accidents in Peoria
Drivers flee accident scenes for many reasons. Understanding why these crashes happen can help support a claim.
Common causes include:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Lack of insurance or a suspended license.
- Fear of arrest or outstanding warrants.
- Distracted driving followed by panic.
- Reckless or aggressive driving behavior.
Regardless of the reason, leaving the scene does not remove liability for the harm caused.
What to Do After a Hit & Run Accident
The steps you take after a hit and run can affect your ability to recover compensation.
We recommend following these steps:
- Call 911 right away and report the crash.
- Seek medical care, even if injuries seem minor.
- Write down details about the fleeing vehicle, if possible.
- Take photos of the scene and vehicle damage.
- Speak with witnesses and get their contact information.
- Contact a Peoria hit and run accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Quick action helps preserve evidence and improves the chances of identifying the at-fault driver.
How Illinois Law Applies to Hit & Run Claims
Illinois law sets strict deadlines and rules for injury cases. Most personal injury claims must be filed within two years under 735 ILCS 5/13-202. Wrongful death claims also generally carry a two-year deadline. Missing these deadlines can prevent recovery.
Illinois follows a modified comparative fault system. Under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, an injured person may recover compensation if they are less than 51 percent at fault. Any recovery is reduced by the person’s share of responsibility.
Illinois is a fault-based state, meaning the party who caused the crash is responsible for damages. In hit and run cases, claims may involve uninsured motorist coverage or other insurance policies when the driver is not identified.
Who May Be Responsible for a Hit & Run Accident?
Liability in a hit and run case depends on the facts.
Possible sources of compensation may include:
- The at-fault driver, if identified.
- Your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
- Other insurance policies that apply to the crash.
An experienced lawyer can review all possible avenues for recovery.
Compensation Available After a Hit & Run Accident
Victims of hit and run accidents may be entitled to compensation for many losses. Generally, accident victims are entitled to economic and non-economic damages.
Examples of these damages include:
- Medical bills, including future treatment needs.
- Lost income and reduced earning ability.
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
- Property damage.
- Wrongful death damages when a loved one is killed.
Each case is different, and full evaluation is needed to understand the value of a claim.
How a Peoria Hit & Run Accident Lawyer Can Help
Handling a hit and run case alone can be overwhelming. Joel E. Brown, P.C. provides legal support at every stage.
When we represent you, we will:
- Investigate the crash and gather evidence.
- Work with law enforcement and insurance carriers.
- Identify all available sources of compensation.
- Calculate damages accurately.
- Negotiate settlements or take cases to trial when needed.
Strong legal representation helps protect your rights and improves your chance of recovery.
Contact Our Peoria Hit & Run Accident Lawyer Today for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in a hit and run accident in Peoria, acting quickly is important. Joel E. Brown, P.C. can review your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue compensation. Our Peoria hit and run accident lawyer can work to hold the responsible party accountable and seek the recovery you deserve.
