If you are hit by a stolen vehicle in Huntsville, Alabama, you may have questions about who is liable for your injuries, lost income, pain, suffering, and other losses. What steps should you take to strengthen your claim against the responsible parties?
Fortunately, while these cases can be more complex than traditional car accidents, those at fault and the steps you should take are essentially the same, and an experienced car accident attorney can help you seek the compensation you need.
What Should I Do If I Get Hit by a Stolen Vehicle in Huntsville, AL?
If you are struck by a stolen vehicle in Huntsville, AL, it is crucial to take the following steps to strengthen your case:
- Report the accident to the police.
- Seek ongoing treatment for your injuries.
- Collect evidence from the accident scene, including photographs and witness contact information.
- Keep track of all medical or vehicle repair bills you receive.
- Contact a Huntsville car accident lawyer about your case.
Who Is Liable for Damages Caused by Stolen Cars?
In general, the person who stole and crashed the car is liable for your damages. In Vines v. Plantation Motor Lodge, the Alabama Supreme Court determined that when someone steals a vehicle and causes a collision, they are the party primarily at fault, not the stolen vehicle’s owner. Even if the owner made it easier for their vehicle to be stolen, such as by leaving it unlocked, that action is not what led to the collision.
However, unlike in other vehicle crash cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance policy likely will not cover your damages. That is because auto insurance policies typically have clauses that void coverage if the at-fault driver causes an accident while committing a crime. Due to this, the at-fault driver will be personally liable for your damages, which may make it harder to recover the full amount you are entitled to.
However, you may have legal options to pursue coverage from other sources. For example, the uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on your auto policy could pay for at least part of your losses. Other parties could potentially be liable for the accident as well.
How a Skilled Car Accident Attorney Can Help After a Crash with a Stolen Car
A skilled car accident attorney from our law firm can help after a crash with a stolen car by identifying the at-fault parties, which may include more than the vehicle’s driver, and gathering evidence to support your claim against them. Gathering evidence is even more essential in hit-and-run cases involving stolen cars, as it can be challenging to identify the driver otherwise.
Our lawyers can also perform other key tasks related to your case, including calculating its value, filing insurance claims and lawsuits, and representing you in settlement negotiations or at trial.
It is critical to have an experienced attorney on your side even when pursuing a UM or other claim against your insurance coverage. The insurance adjuster’s goals are not aligned with your interests, even when dealing with “your” insurance company, but our attorneys will fight for you.
Contact Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., for a Complimentary Consultation
The best way to protect your rights and seek maximum compensation following a collision involving a stolen vehicle is to work with our experienced car accident attorneys in Huntsville, AL. At Morris, King & Hodge, P.C., we have recovered millions for our clients who have been injured in motor vehicle accidents, including hit-and-run accidents and other similar incidents.
Contact our firm for a free consultation with an experienced stolen car accident lawyer. We will explain your options for seeking the compensation you need and answer any questions you have about your case.
