Awards & Media Appearances
The Risks of Holiday Driving on Seawall Boulevard 
The holiday season in Galveston brings a unique combination of excitement and challenges, especially when it comes to driving on Seawall Boulevard. With thousands of visitors flooding the island to celebrate Christmas, New Year’s, and other festive events, the area sees a noticeable increase in both traffic and accidents. Tourists, many unfamiliar with local roads, can be distracted, leading to more vehicle collisions. Meanwhile, locals dealing with the same seasonal distractions and increased traffic can inadvertently contribute to a higher number of accidents, including hit-and-runs.
The holiday season is often associated with an uptick in alcohol consumption. Bars, restaurants, and festive gatherings along the Seawall encourage people to enjoy themselves, but some may drive under the influence, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. The festive mood can also result in distracted driving as people focus on celebrations or their phones instead of the road.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident is one where a driver causes damage to another vehicle or person and then flees the scene. Unfortunately, these accidents are all too common, and they can be especially distressing when the responsible party is nowhere to be found. In many instances, a hit-and-run occurs because the driver knows they are at fault—whether due to impaired driving, speeding, or simply not paying attention—and they try to avoid being caught. In Galveston, during the holiday season, the likelihood of hit-and-run accidents increases due to higher traffic volume. But being involved in such an incident can leave the victim feeling vulnerable. What should you do when the person responsible leaves the scene? Is there hope of recovering compensation for your injuries, damages, and medical bills?The Zendeh Del & Associates, PLLC Team
What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run
Being involved in a hit-and-run can be a traumatic experience, especially if you’re hurt. The first and most important thing to do is ensure your safety. Here’s what you need to do immediately after a hit-and-run:- Call the Police: After a hit-and-run, contact law enforcement as quickly as possible. Not only will the police begin investigating the incident, but they will also create an official report, which will be crucial when filing your insurance claim and pursuing legal action.
- Seek Medical Help: Even if you feel fine, you should seek medical attention. Adrenaline can mask injuries, especially in the immediate aftermath of an accident. Seeing a doctor will ensure that any injuries—no matter how minor they may seem—are diagnosed and documented.
- Document the Scene: If you are physically able, take photos of the scene of the accident. Capture images of any visible damages to your vehicle, the surrounding area, and any injuries you’ve sustained. This documentation will help your case later on.
- Speak with Witnesses: If anyone witnessed the accident, try to get their contact information. A witness statement can be invaluable when attempting to track down the at-fault driver or when proving your case to the insurance company.
- Collect Any Available Evidence: If the accident occurred in a busy area like Seawall Boulevard, there may be surveillance cameras or traffic cameras that captured the incident. Ask the authorities if any footage is available.
The Role of UM/UIM Coverage in Hit-and-Run Cases
One of the most important aspects of insurance coverage when dealing with a hit-and-run is understanding Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run, this type of coverage can be a lifesaver.What Is UM/UIM Insurance?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist insurance is a form of coverage that helps protect you if the person responsible for the accident either doesn’t have insurance (uninsured) or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your medical bills and damages (underinsured). While the state of Texas requires drivers to have liability insurance, this doesn’t guarantee that they’ll have enough coverage to pay for all your expenses if they’re at fault in an accident.Client
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These guys are amazing. They made a most horrific experience bearable. They treated me with respect and no judgment. I cannot describe how grateful I am for their representation with my case. 5 stars is not enough. I hope I never need them again but would ABSOLUTELY use them again and definitely recommend them.
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Jonathan Zendeh Del and Associates worked tirelessly on my case. They kept me informed every step of the way. In the end the got my case dismissed and I am so grateful that we out our trust in his law firm. I can honestly say the rumors were true. He really is the best.
— Kristin F.
How UM/UIM Coverage Can Help After a Hit-and-Run
When the person responsible for the hit-and-run accident is found to be uninsured or underinsured, your UM/UIM policy can help pay for:- Medical Bills: This is the most immediate concern for many people involved in accidents. Whether it’s for emergency room visits, surgery, or long-term rehabilitation, UM/UIM can help cover the cost of medical care if the at-fault driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, UM/UIM coverage can compensate you for lost income during your recovery period.
- Pain and Suffering: Aside from medical expenses, victims may experience emotional distress, anxiety, and pain from their injuries. UM/UIM can cover these damages as well, ensuring that you aren’t left with financial hardship due to an accident that wasn’t your fault.
How to File a UM/UIM Claim
Filing a UM/UIM claim is similar to filing a claim with any other type of insurance. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of receiving compensation:- Notify Your Insurance Company: As soon as possible after the accident, contact your insurance provider to report the hit-and-run. Be sure to provide all necessary information, including the police report and any documentation you’ve gathered at the scene.
- Provide Documentation: Your insurer will need various forms of evidence to process your claim. This may include the police report, photos of the accident scene, medical records, and any other documents related to the accident.
- Review Your Policy: Before filing, take the time to review your UM/UIM coverage limits and any exclusions. Understanding what’s covered under your policy will help set realistic expectations for the claims process.
- Consult an Attorney: If you have difficulty dealing with your insurance provider or need help with the claims process, a personal injury attorney can guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.