What Happens if the Other Driver Leaves the Scene in Alberta?
You're driving carefully when another vehicle crashes into you — and then speeds away. **What do I do now?** You're left with damage, possibly injuries, and no way to contact the at-fault driver.
Hit-and-run accidents are common in Alberta, and they pose unique challenges. But even if the other driver disappears, you can still recover compensation for your injuries and property damage.
Financial support for injuries and property damage can be obtained through Alberta's **Motor Vehicle Accident Claims (MVAC) Program** and your own insurance coverage. But these claims are **time-sensitive** and have technical requirements that can trip up even careful victims.
As Alberta personal injury lawyers, we've handled numerous hit-and-run claims and know exactly how to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
What Counts as a Hit-and-Run in Alberta?
A **hit-and-run** occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without stopping to:
Legal requirements:
What You're Required to Do After a Hit-and-Run
If you're the victim of a hit-and-run in Alberta, you must take **immediate action** to preserve your right to claim compensation.
Steps to Protect Your Claim After a Hit-and-Run
Taking immediate action after a hit-and-run is crucial to preserve evidence and protect your rights:
Call Police Immediately
Always report the incident. A police report is essential for MVAC and insurance claims.
Seek Medical Attention
Document all injuries, even minor ones. Late treatment makes claims harder to prove.
Preserve All Evidence
Photos, videos, and witness details are vital when no other driver is present to confirm events.
Contact Your Insurer Promptly
You may qualify for Section B and uninsured-motorist coverage.
Notify MVAC Early
Hit-and-run claims are time-sensitive. Missing deadlines can bar recovery.
Track Your Recovery
Keep a journal of symptoms, missed work, and how the accident affects your life.
Consult an Alberta Car Accident Lawyer
A lawyer ensures the MVAC and insurance processes are handled correctly from day one.
How a Lawyer Helps Hit-and-Run Victims
Experienced personal injury lawyers play a crucial role in hit-and-run accident claims:
Handling MVAC Applications
Preparing documentation, notices, and evidence to prove eligibility.
Coordinating With Insurers
Managing Section B and uninsured motorist claims to avoid duplicate or denied coverage.
Investigating the Case
Working with police, witnesses, and investigators to identify the at-fault driver.
Protecting Deadlines
Ensuring MVAC and limitation periods are met.
Maximizing Compensation
Calculating the full value of medical costs, income loss, and pain and suffering.
Case Example
A Calgary pedestrian was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene at night. With no witnesses, the insurer denied coverage. Our team filed an MVAC claim, obtained video from nearby businesses, and proved the collision met eligibility rules. The client received a **$180,000 settlement** for long-term injuries and lost wages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling powerless—but in Alberta, you still have legal rights and access to compensation. The key is **acting quickly**: reporting the accident, collecting evidence, and contacting a lawyer before critical deadlines pass.
Always report hit-and-run accidents to police immediately
Alberta's MVAC Program provides compensation for uninsured or unidentified drivers
You must file MVAC notice within 30 days and claim within two years
A lawyer ensures every step is handled correctly and maximizes your recovery