Cycling in Georgia offers a great way to commute, exercise, and enjoy the outdoors. Unfortunately, when drivers fail to share the road responsibly, cyclists are at risk of serious harm. The situation becomes even more devastating when a driver flees the scene after striking a bicyclist.
A hit-and-run can leave victims injured and uncertain about their legal options. If you or a loved one has been harmed in this type of incident, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you can take to pursue justice. Here, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry explain.
Georgia’s Laws on Hit-and-Run Incidents
Under Georgia law, drivers involved in a collision must stop, provide their information, and assist injured parties if necessary. Leaving the scene of a crash involving injury or death is a felony offense under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270, punishable by significant fines and potential prison time.
When a driver flees, it does not mean the injured cyclist is without options. Multiple legal avenues may be available to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run in Georgia
If you are struck by a vehicle and the driver does not stop, taking immediate action can help protect your health and legal claim.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if injuries do not seem severe at first, getting checked by a doctor is critical. Internal injuries and concussions may not be immediately noticeable.
- Call Law Enforcement – A police report can be crucial in criminal and civil cases. Officers may be able to locate the driver using witness accounts, traffic cameras, or other evidence.
- Gather Information – If possible, remember details about the vehicle, including the make, model, color, and any part of the license plate number. Witnesses may also be able to provide helpful information.
- Document the Scene – Take photos of your bicycle, injuries, and the location where the collision occurred. If nearby businesses or homes have security cameras, their footage could capture valuable evidence.
- Contact an Attorney – An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you explore all available legal options and protect your rights.
Pursuing Compensation After a Hit-and-Run
Even if the at-fault driver is never identified, injured cyclists may still have options for financial recovery.
Some potential sources of compensation include:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage – If you have auto insurance, your uninsured motorist policy may cover damages from a hit-and-run, even though you were on a bicycle.
- Crime Victims Compensation Program – Georgia offers financial assistance to victims of hit-and-run crimes, which may help cover medical costs and other losses.
- Third-Party Liability – In some cases, other parties may share responsibility, such as a municipality that failed to maintain safe road conditions or a bar that overserved an intoxicated driver before they fled the scene.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Hit-and-run cases can be complex, especially when the driver is not immediately identified. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, making having an advocate on your side essential. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our legal team understands the challenges injured cyclists face and is committed to fighting for the compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been harmed in a hit-and-run while riding a bicycle, contact us today for a free consultation. We may be able to help you navigate the legal process and secure the financial recovery you need to move forward.