Rockford Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer

Defending Injured Victims’ Rights Following Hit-and-Run Accidents

Rockford hit-and-run accident lawyers know how devastating these crashes can be, leaving victims with serious injuries, property damage, and uncertainty. When a driver flees the scene, securing compensation becomes more challenging, but legal options are still available.

Whether the at-fault driver is identified or not, an attorney can help you pursue a claim through the other driver’s liability insurance or your own coverage. At Rosenfield Injury Lawyers, we fight for accident victims in Rockford and throughout Northern Illinois to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve.

Verdicts and Settlements from Our Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers in Rockford

With a strong history of advocating for auto accident victims, our Rockford auto crash lawyers have recovered millions in settlements for those injured by negligent drivers who fled the scene, including:

• $599,900 settlement – Secured for a 55-year-old teacher who suffered a sternum and ankle fracture after being hit head-on by a driver distracted by texting.
• $250,000 settlement – Recovered through an uninsured motorist policy for a woman injured in a hit-and-run accident.
• $449,000 settlement – Obtained for a woman who sustained facial injuries after her head struck the windshield in a crash.

Illinois Law and Hit-and-Run Accidents

Under Illinois law (625 ILCS 5/11-401), all drivers involved in a motor vehicle accident must stop, provide information, and assist anyone injured. Drivers who flee the scene may face felony or misdemeanor charges depending on the severity of the crash:

• Accidents causing injury or death – Leaving the scene of an accident that causes injury is a Class 4 felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and fines up to $25,000. If the crash results in a fatality, the charge increases to a Class 2 felony, carrying a possible three to 14 years in prison.
• Accidents causing property damage only – If a driver leaves after a car crash that only causes property damage, they may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, which can result in up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine.

In addition to fines and jail time, convicted hit-and-run drivers often face license suspension or revocation by the Illinois Secretary of State.

Even if the driver is never found, auto accident victims can still pursue civil claims for damages. Illinois requires auto insurance policies to include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can help recover compensation.

What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Rockford

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming, but taking the proper steps can help protect your health and strengthen your auto accident claim. If you are the victim of a hit-and-run in Rockford, Illinois, follow these steps:

Get to a Safe Location

If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further damage or injury. If your car is not drivable, turn on your hazard lights and stay inside until it’s safe to exit.

Report the Accident and Request Emergency Assistance

Dial 911 immediately to report the crash. A police report is critical for identifying the driver, proving fault, and filing a claim with your own insurance company. If you or anyone else has been injured, request emergency medical assistance.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, see a doctor as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as spinal cord injuries or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately. Keep copies of all medical records and bills, which will be necessary for your personal injury claim.

Try to Remember Details About the Vehicle or Driver

Even small details can help law enforcement track down the hit-and-run driver. Try to recall:

• The vehicle’s make, model, and color;
• Any part of the license plate number;
• The direction of travel after the crash;
• Notable features (damage, bumper stickers, tinted windows, etc.).

Look for Witnesses and Get Their Contact Information

If anyone saw the crash, ask for their name, phone number, and a brief statement about what they witnessed. Their testimony can help prove what happened and support your claim.

Document the Accident Scene

Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including:

• Damage to your vehicle and any debris left behind;
• Skid marks, traffic signals, or nearby businesses with security cameras;
• Your injuries (if visible).

Do Not Admit Fault

Avoid making statements about fault or downplaying your injuries to the police, witnesses, or insurance companies. Even saying, “I’m fine,” can minimize your personal injury claim.

After taking these steps, contacting a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options. An experienced attorney can assist in dealing with the insurance company, gathering evidence, and pursuing the compensation you deserve.

Our Law Firm’s Commitment to Serving Rockford Hit-and-Run Victim

At Rosenfield Injury Lawyers, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a hit-and-run accident can have on victims and their families.

Our experienced attorneys fight for those suffering from serious injuries, including spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and internal organ damage. Even soft tissue injuries like whiplash can lead to long-term pain and require costly medical care.

If a hit-and-run driver left you injured, you may need an accident lawyer to help recover medical bills, lost wages, and property damage—even if the driver is never found.

Our team assists clients in filing claims through uninsured motorist coverage, negotiating with insurance companies, and pursuing lawsuits when necessary. If you’ve been hurt in a hit-and-run in Rockford, Illinois, our firm is here to provide the legal representation you need.

Investigating a Hit-and-Run Accident

A thorough investigation is essential in identifying the driver responsible for a hit-and-run accident and securing compensation for the victim. Law enforcement and personal injury lawyers work together to gather evidence that may lead to the at-fault driver.

The first step is obtaining a police report, which may contain details about the accident, statements from witnesses, and any identifying information about the vehicles involved. Investigators also check traffic cameras, security footage from nearby businesses, and dashcam recordings for visual evidence of the crash or the fleeing vehicle.

Witnesses can provide key details such as the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number. Additionally, accident reconstruction experts analyze debris left at the accident scene, skid marks, and paint transfers to determine the type of vehicle involved. In some cases, public tips or social media posts can provide valuable leads.

Potential Compensation for Rockford Hit-and-Run Car Accident Victims

Victims of a hit-and-run accident may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.

Economic damages include:

• Medical bills – Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical expenses.
• Lost wages – Compensation for missed work and reduced earning capacity due to long-term injuries.
• Property damage – Repairs or replacement costs for the damaged vehicle.

Non-economic damages include:

• Pain and suffering – Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
• Loss of enjoyment of life – If injuries prevent participation in activities you once enjoyed.
• Permanent disability or disfigurement – For lasting injuries such as spinal cord injuries or facial scarring.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

All auto insurance policies in Illinois must include Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. This coverage protects auto accident victims when the at-fault driver is uninsured or cannot be identified, such as in a hit-and-run accident.

Why You Need a Rockford Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney

Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run can be overwhelming, especially when the driver is never found.

A personal injury lawyer can help you maximize compensation by gathering evidence, filing claims, and negotiating with the insurance company to ensure you receive the full amount you’re entitled to. An experienced personal injury attorney can push back against unfair settlement offers and, if necessary, file a personal injury claim.

FAQs About Rockford Hit-and-Run Accidents

What if the Police Can’t Find the Hit-And-Run Driver?

If law enforcement cannot identify the driver who caused your accident, you can still seek compensation through uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Illinois requires auto insurance policies to include UM coverage, which helps cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault driver is unknown.

How Much Is My Hit-And-Run Accident Case Worth?

The value of a hit-and-run accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your car accident injuries, medical bills, and pain and suffering. If the at-fault driver is identified, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against them for additional damages, including punitive damages for reckless driving.

If the driver is never found, compensation can come from your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage through your own insurance company. Settlements vary based on policy limits and the accident’s impact on your life.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim or Lawsuit in Illinois?

Illinois law sets strict deadlines for filing a hit-and-run car accident claim or personal injury lawsuit. The time limit depends on the type of claim:

• Personal Injury Lawsuit – You have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit for injuries caused by a hit-and-run driver (735 ILCS 5/13-202).
• Wrongful Death Lawsuit – If the car accident results in a fatality, the victim’s family has two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death claim (740 ILCS 180/2).
• Property Damage Claim – If your vehicle was damaged in a hit-and-run accident, you have five years to seek compensation for repairs (735 ILCS 5/13-205).

For uninsured motorist (UM) claims, the deadline varies depending on the terms of your auto insurance policy. Some policies require claims to be filed within 30 days to two years.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire Rockford Car Accident Lawyers?

Our Rockford attorneys work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we secure compensation for you. This allows auto accident victims to access quality legal help without financial risk.

What if I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), meaning you can still recover compensation if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, a driver may be hit by a speeding vehicle that runs a red light, but the victim may also have been making an illegal turn during the crash. If the court finds the victim 20% at fault, their compensation will be reduced by 20%. So, if their damages amount to $100,000, they would receive $80,000.

Will I Have to Go to Court?

Most auto accident cases are settled through insurance negotiations, so going to court is not always necessary. However, filing a personal injury claim may be the best option if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation.

Our experienced attorneys dedicate themselves to preparing every case and ensuring you have strong legal representation, whether in settlement talks or court.

Consult a Rockford Hit-and-Run Crash Lawyer Near You!

If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run car accident, you don’t have to face the legal process alone.

At Rosenfield Injury Lawyers, our experienced attorneys are committed to helping victims recover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages—even if the driver is never found. We fight to secure the maximum compensation available through uninsured motorist (UM) coverage or a personal injury claim.

Our team of personal injury lawyers in Rockford offers a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Call us at (888) 424–5757 or fill out our contact form to speak with a dedicated Rockford car accident attorney about your case today.

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“I had a very good experience with the attorneys at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers when I hired them to help me with my car accident case. I was injured by this accident and being so close to Christmas made the accident that much more difficult. I’m so thankful I found Mr. Rosenfeld and his firm! They were thorough with getting my medical records and bills together after the crash. The fact that they returned all my calls and emails was one of the better parts of this firm. The office is very well run and I would suggest them to anyone in need of a lawyer for a case involving a serious injury from a Car Accident!”

— ryan kancewick

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All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.