A 67-year-old Livonia woman was struck and injured by a vehicle in the parking lot of Fantastic Sam’s Cut & Color on February 15th. The business is located near the intersection of Bainbridge Street and Five Mile Road. The vehicle, described as a light-colored four door sedan, sped away from the scene. The incident took place at approximately 11:40 a.m. Authorities are still searching for both the vehicle and driver.
Anyone who is injured in a hit-and-run accident will likely require treatment which can include, but certainly not be limited to, surgery, physical therapy, and substantial medical bills. While no-fault insurance can immediately help alleviate some of those burdens, an injured party may also consider pursuing legal options.
In the state of Michigan, law requires that all motorists stop and remain at the scene of an accident. Especially when there are injuries involved. Any driver who flees the scene may face criminal charges, as well as a civil lawsuit by the injured party. A civil claim may include compensation for loss of income, medical expenses, physical and mental pain and distress, and disability among others.
The statute of limitation for an injured party to file a civil lawsuit is three years from the date of injury. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that a party who has been injured in a hit-and-run accident consult with an attorney as soon as possible to make sure that deadline does not pass by. In addition, uninsured motorist and no-fault insurance claims often require that a police report be filed within 24 hours of such an accident.