In a hit and run accident, a car bumps with another car, an object, or a pedestrian. Immediately after the incident, the driver leaves the scene without leaving his identity or providing help to those who might require it.
According to statistics, there were about 92,000 hit and run accidents in Florida in the year 2015. These kinds of accidents are unfortunate occurrences for both the perpetrator and the victim. For the injured party, there is always anger and bitterness at the party at fault for causing the incident and not taking the responsibility. For the defendant, there can be criminal charges and civil liability.
Statistics indicate that around one in five hit and run occurrences involve pedestrians. If you get involved in this type of accident, seek help from a legal advisor such as Bountiful car accident attorney for guidance.
Reasons Drivers Flee The Scene
Some of the reasons why drivers flee the scene after an accident include the following:
- Panic
- Lack of driver’s license
- Driving a stolen car
- Left the scene to acquire some help
- Not realizing that the occurrence occurred
- Intoxication
- Feeling that little or no injury occurred
Criminal Consequences
Running away from the accident scene after you have caused property damage can actually result in hefty fines and incarceration. Most offenders usually pay fines. However, if you injured someone seriously, felony charges can be possible. The court can force you to pay fines of between 500 and 1000 US dollars and/or face a jail sentence of not less than 6 years.
If a person has died as a result of this kind of accident, the court can increase the penalty against you. The court can also charge you with a case of vehicular manslaughter. If you are proven to be intoxicated, the court will charge you with a case of motor vehicle homicide.
Here are the different charges a hit and run driver may face:
- fleeing the scene of property damage accident
- hit and run
- driving without a license or on a suspended license
- DUI
- driving stolen vehicle
- assault with a weapon
- vehicular homicide
- many other related charges
Hit and Run Injury Claims
If you are a victim of a hit and run, you have to verify to the judges that, indeed, the collision occurred before you can demand compensation from the party at fault. If you can identify or track down the driver who caused the accident, the case can be easier.
If the driver cannot be found, the damages you got from the accident will be compensated under the uninsured provision of your policy. This will usually cover your medical expenses, pain and sufferings, lost income, and emotional distress.
Conclusion
Cases of hit and run are usually complicated. If you are planning to file a case like this, start by consulting a knowledgeable and experienced professional. He will not only advise you on what to do, but he can also represent you in the court proceedings.