Hit And Run Accident Lawyer in Brisbane
In Brisbane, the sudden shock of a hit-and-run accident can happen to anyone, anytime. While we hope it never happens, the truth is, accidents are a part of life on our busy roads. In fact, in 2022 alone, there were 1,194 road crash deaths recorded in Queensland. This reality makes knowing a good hit-and-run lawyer in Brisbane not just useful, but essential for those caught in such unexpected and stressful situations.
What to Do in a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you find yourself involved in a hit-and-run accident in Brisbane, taking the right steps immediately can significantly impact the outcome of your situation. Here’s what you should do:
Stay Safe and Check for Injuries
First, make sure you and any passengers are safe. Then, check for injuries and call emergency services if needed. Don’t try to follow the other car. It’s better and safer to stay where you are.
Report and Document the Incident
Notify the police, as it's required in Queensland. Remember details about the fleeing car, such as colour and model, and get contact info from witnesses. Take photos of the damage, the scene, and any injuries, noting down the time and location.
Medical Attention and Insurance Notification
Visit a doctor for a check-up, even if injuries aren't apparent. Inform your insurance company about the accident.
Maintain Records
Keep all relevant documents, like police reports and medical records.
How to Make a Hit-and-Run Accident Claim
Once you’ve taken the initial steps, consider making a hit-and-run accident claim. This is where legal assistance becomes vital. Here’s an overview of the process:
1. Initial Consultation
Meet with a specialised lawyer to discuss the accident, evidence, and legal options. Our team at Rin Kim Law specialises in handling hit-and-run accident cases in Brisbane, along with cases involving car accidents and pedestrian incidents. We have experienced lawyers who know Queensland’s traffic laws well and work hard to support our clients.
Keep in mind, if a hit-and-run happens in a place like a shopping centre parking lot, there could also be issues of public liability. Fortunately, we also have experts in public liability law to handle these situations. We customise our help for each client to provide effective, personal legal support.
2. Engaging Legal Representation
If you choose to proceed, formally hire the law firm. The lawyer will explain your rights and the legal process.
3. Evidence Gathering and Case Preparation
Your lawyer gathers evidence (police reports, medical records, witness statements) to build your case.
4. Filing the Claim
The claim is filed, possibly against the Nominal Defendant if the at-fault driver is unknown. This includes submitting legal documents detailing your case and the compensation you’re seeking.
5. Negotiations with Insurers
Most claims are settled outside of court. Your lawyer negotiates with insurance companies to reach a fair settlement.
6. Mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution
If negotiations don’t result in a settlement, mediation or another dispute resolution method might be used, involving a neutral third party.
7. Court Proceedings
If a settlement isn’t reached, the case goes to court. Your lawyer presents your case, including evidence and arguments.
8. Verdict and Compensation
The court gives a verdict and, if successful, awards compensation for your damages and losses.
9. Post-Trial
Your lawyer helps with post-trial matters, including collecting compensation.
10. Ongoing Support
Throughout the process, your legal team offers ongoing support and advice, keeping you informed and comfortable.
Legal Process in the Absence of the At-Fault Driver
When the at-fault driver is unidentified, the legal process in Brisbane typically involves:
1. Nominal Defendant Claims: You may be able to make a claim against the Nominal Defendant, a statutory body established to compensate victims of uninsured or unidentified drivers.
2. Time Limits: Be aware of time limits for filing a claim against the Nominal Defendant. Legal advice from a firm like Rin Kim Law can help ensure compliance with these deadlines.
3. Evidence Requirements: The burden of proof is on you, the claimant. Thorough evidence collection is essential.
4. Legal Representation: Engaging a lawyer can be critical. They can navigate the complexities of filing a claim against the Nominal Defendant and represent your interests
Meet Our Legal Team
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Rin Kim
PRINCIPAL LAWYER
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Stephen Hughes
LEGAL PRACTICE MANAGER & SPECIAL COUNSEL
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Vek Raniga
SENIOR ASSOCIATE &
NEGOTIATION SPECIALIST -
Jamie Park
ASSOCIATE
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Walun Apiratkasem
ASSOCIATE
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Benjamin Sung
LAW GRADUATE
Hit and Run Lawyer Cost
When you need a hit-and-run lawyer, it's important to know how much it might cost. Here's a simple breakdown:
1. No Win, No Fee: Many lawyers, such as Rin Kim Law, don’t charge you unless they win your case.
2. Hourly Rates: Some lawyers charge by the hour. The rate can depend on how experienced the lawyer is and how complex your case is.
3. Complex Cases Cost More: If your case is complicated, it might cost more because it takes more work.
4. Other Costs: There might be extra costs like court fees or paying for police reports.
5. Free First Meeting: Many lawyers offer a first meeting for free, so you can talk about costs without any charge. Rin Kim Law offers a free case review, too.
6. No Upfront Costs: With 'no-win-no-fee' lawyers, you don't have to pay anything upfront.
FAQs About Hit-and-Run Accident Claims
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Make sure you’re safe, call the police, try to remember details about the other car and get witness info. Take pictures and see a doctor if you’re hurt.
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If you’re hurt or your car is damaged in a hit-and-run, you might have a claim. A lawyer can help you figure it out.
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It depends on your policy. Check with your insurer, especially if you have comprehensive coverage.
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You can still claim against a special fund for victims of unidentified or uninsured drivers.
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Start as soon as possible. There are strict time limits, especially for claims against the Nominal Defendant in Queensland.
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Yes, if the distress or psychological injury is because of the hit-and-run.
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You might still get compensation, but it could be less. Legal advice is important here.
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It varies. It depends on the case details, how well everyone cooperates, and if it goes to court.
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You might get money for medical bills, lost income, car repairs, and for pain and suffering. The amount depends on your case.
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It’s not required, but a lawyer can really help with the complex parts of hit-and-run cases.
100% No Win, No Pay
We work on a real No Win, No Pay basis. Some law firms say that they are no win, no fee when they are not and still end up charging clients for their paid disbursements (could be up to $25,000) even when their matters are unsuccessful. You do not have to worry about this with us. We guarantee that it is 100% no win, no pay with us.
Free Case Review with Us
You can always request a free case review with us anytime. Simply submit your enquiry on our website and one of our experienced lawyers will be in contact within 24 hours.
You Are More Than a Case Number to Us
Most bigger law firms treat their clients just as another case number but that will NOT happen with us. We provide our clients with the utmost respect and attention that they deserve. Don’t settle with a lawyer who treats your case as just another number. We stay in regular contact with our clients and make them feel at ease by explaining what is happening to their claim during every step of the claim process.
We Don’t Make False Promises
Some lawyers can over-promise and this can be disastrous down the track. We do not make misleading promises. We provide you with a realistic estimate of compensation range when we are confident with the materials that we have in our possession.
We Stay Open During Weekends and Holiday Periods
Accidents can happen any time and we understand the importance of getting help right away if you are involved in an accident even on the weekends or during holiday periods. You can reach us on 0404 871 986 anytime or send an email to rin@rinkimlaw.com.au and we will get back to you within 24 hours.
We Come to You
We understand that it will be difficult for you to travel out to have meetings with us in person if you’ve suffered serious injuries. That is the reason why you can request a home visit or meet us at any other places that you prefer to make things easier for you. Our top priority is to ensure that you feel comfortable during every step of the process.
Speak with a Hit-and-Run Lawyer Today!
If you or someone you know has been involved in a hit-and-run accident, contact Rin Kim Law for a consultation to discuss your case. Take the first step towards resolving your hit-and-run case with confidence. Reach out to Rin Kim Law today.
Or call during business hours -
HOURS: Mon -Thur 9am - 5pm / Fri 9am - 3pm
EMERGENCY? HOLIDAYS?
Call 0404 871 986