A fatal hit-and-run involving two vehicles and a motorcycle has left grief and the unknown in its wake following the motorcycle accident on Friday, May 10.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, Ladson resident Christopher Ashley, 37, and his passenger were driving his 2023 Kawasaki motorcycle on Oakmont Avenue when he was struck by an unknown vehicle as he turned onto Ladson Road.
The impact ejected Ashley into the westbound lane where another unknown vehicle struck the motorcyclist, according to police. Ashley was pronounced dead at the scene around 9:20 p.m.
The passenger was taken to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries, according to police reports.
In the days following the motorcycle accident in Charleston, SC, state troopers have arrested one suspect involved in the hit-and-run accident.
Jeannie Regan Polite, 43, was arrested and charged with hit-and-run involving death. According to Nick Pye, spokesman for the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the second suspect has not yet been apprehended.
The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office and the SC Highway Patrol are continuing to investigate the double hit-and-run collision.
What to Do If You’re a Victim of a Hit and Run
In 2020, South Carolina recorded over 3,000 hit-and-run accidents, with Charleston holding the number 12 spot on the list of cities with the most car accidents in the U.S.
Being involved in a car accident can be a nerve-wracking experience, but being involved in a hit-and-run can be disorienting and debilitating. If you find yourself in a situation where another driver has fled the scene, the following actions can help protect you in the aftermath of the accident.
Safety First
If possible, move yourself and your vehicle to a safe location close to the accident scene. This could be a nearby parking lot or shoulder of the road. Turn on your hazard lights to warn drivers around you of the incident.
Call the Police
No matter the severity of the accident, always report a hit-and-run to the local police department. An official report could be valuable in pursuing a case later.
Documentation is Crucial
Try to pay attention and document every detail, no matter how small. This could be descriptions of the fleeing vehicle, photos of the accident scene and injuries, and the personal information of witnesses.
File a Hit and Run Report
South Carolina law requires that any accident is reported to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles within 15 days if the damage exceeds $1,000. Talk to your car accident lawyer at Hoffman Law Firm for the form information.
Seek Medical Attention
Whether you suffered a devastating injury, or everything appears fine, seek medical attention after a collision. Some injuries may not show immediate symptoms, and having a medical record is essential for insurance claims and pursuing a legal case later on.
Consult a South Carolina Car Accident Attorney
Hit-and-run cases can be disorienting, leaving you with more questions than answers. The car accident lawyers at Hoffman Law Firm are experienced in hit-and-run cases and will help guide you every step of the way in seeking compensation.
Seeking Compensation After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Where do you start in seeking compensation for a hit-and-run accident when you have no idea who was involved?
Recovering damages after a hit-and-run accident can be challenging, especially when the driver is not immediately identified. Here are some avenues for you and your lawyer to consider when seeking compensation:
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
South Carolina requires all drivers to purchase UM coverage, which provides financial protection involving uninsured drivers or those who fled the scene of an accident. State minimums for UM coverage are $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Talk to your insurance company on specific coverage options and what it entails.
Crime Victim Compensation Programs
Crime victim compensation programs provide financial assistance to victims of violent crimes, including hit-and-run accidents. These services may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other eligible costs.
Consult your car accident attorney for possible avenues in seeking compensation after a hit-and-run accident before moving forward.
Don’t Suffer on Your Own – Let Hoffman Law Firm Help
Hit-and-run accidents can be confusing, complex and downright frightening to go through on your own. Our lawyers at Hoffman Law Firm make it our mission to help victims at every step of their journey, from filing a claim to recovering damages. We can handle the legal proceedings–your goal is to focus on what’s most important in your recovery journey.
If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, whether on a motorcycle or in a vehicle, you have the right to seek compensation for all you’ve endured. Our car accident lawyers near you are available to discuss your situation specifically and what we can do to help move forward.
Located in Charleston, SC, our team has extensive experience handling a wide variety of cases.
Plus, you only pay us if we win your case.
We have established a reputation for success, as well as great service! To meet with a member of our team, contact Hoffman Law Firm today.
Other Helpful Motorcycle Accident Blogs:
What to Do After a Hit-and-run Accident in Charleston?
Are Motorcycle Accidents Increasing in South Carolina?
How Helmet Laws Affect Motorcycle Accident Cases in South Carolina
How to Treat Road Rash After a Motorcycle Crash?
Can A Personal Injury Case Be Reopened in South Carolina?
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Personal Injury Claim
Do You Have A Personal Injury Case?
Evidence: Your Personal Injury Case Depends on it
How Social Media Can Impact Your Personal Injury Claim
Personal Injury Lawsuit: Definitions of Common Personal Injury Terminology
Maximizing Your Compensation in a Personal Injury Case
Understanding Lost Wages After You Were Injured In an Accident in South Carolina
What is a Contingency Fee When Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney?
What are Mental Anguish Damages?
What Is the Role of Your Personal Injury Attorney?
What Qualifies As Pain and Suffering in a Personal Injury Case?