Hit and Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident is not only devastating for the victim but also a serious offense for the driver who flees the scene. Leaving an accident without stopping can result in severe legal consequences and complicate the recovery process for victims. Learn about the causes behind hit-and-run accidents, the consequences for those involved, and what steps you can take if you find yourself in such an unfortunate situation.
What is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver causes a collision and leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or check on the other party involved. These accidents can range from minor fender-benders to severe crashes and are illegal in most jurisdictions.
Hit-and-run accidents can cause victims to experience the following:
- Difficulty in filing insurance claims: Without the identity of the at-fault driver, victims are left to rely on their own insurance policies, such as uninsured motorist coverage, to cover medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other damages. If the victim doesn’t have this type of coverage, they may face out-of-pocket expenses.
- Legal barriers: Pursuing legal action against an unidentified driver is almost impossible. Without knowing the driver’s identity, victims cannot file a lawsuit for compensation, leaving them with fewer options for recovery.
- Longer recovery process: The financial strain from having to pay for medical treatments and car repairs without compensation can slow down a victim’s physical and emotional recovery, adding more stress to an already difficult situation.
Causes of Hit-and-Run Accidents
Hit-and-run accidents may occur due to a combination of:
- Fear of legal consequences: Drivers who are unlicensed, uninsured, or impaired may flee the scene to avoid penalties.
- Driver panic: Some drivers may panic and leave the scene out of shock or fear after causing an accident.
- Illegal activity: Involvement in illegal activities (such as driving a stolen vehicle) can motivate drivers to leave the scene.
- Distracted or impaired driving: Drivers under the influence or distracted may not fully realize the severity of the accident, leading them to flee.
Consequences of Hit-and-Run Accidents for the Liable Party
If someone is caught after fleeing the scene of a road traffic accident, the consequences can be severe.
They may face:
- Insurance complications: Hit-and-run drivers can face substantial financial consequences, from increased premiums to denial of coverage.
- Criminal charges: Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal, often resulting in criminal charges, including fines, jail time, and license suspension.
Why It’s Difficult to Identify the At-Fault Driver
One of the most significant challenges in hit-and-run accidents is identifying the responsible party. When a driver flees the scene, they leave victims without critical information needed to pursue legal or insurance claims, such as the at-fault driver’s identity, contact details, and insurance information. This creates a complex situation for the victims, who may face several obstacles in seeking compensation for their injuries or damages.
- Lack of eyewitnesses: Hit-and-run accidents often happen quickly, and if there are no witnesses or bystanders, it becomes difficult to gather information about the fleeing vehicle, such as the license plate number or a description of the driver.
- Absence of security footage: In many cases, especially in rural or less-trafficked areas, there might not be any cameras nearby to capture the accident, making it harder to track down the responsible party. Even in urban areas, cameras may not be positioned correctly to capture useful footage.
- Fleeing to avoid detection: Drivers involved in hit-and-runs may deliberately try to evade law enforcement by quickly leaving the scene, altering their vehicle’s appearance, or avoiding high-traffic areas where they could be spotted.
- False or incomplete reporting: In some cases, even if there is a witness, their account of the accident may be incomplete or inaccurate due to the event’s suddenness, making it harder to trace the responsible driver.
Don’t Delay, Contact Us Today
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s crucial to take action quickly to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the legal process and get the justice you’re entitled to. Don’t let the stress and confusion of a hit-and-run leave you feeling helpless – reach out to Meinhart & Manning today for a free consultation. Simply fill out our online form or call us directly at (877) 776-1219. We’re here to fight for you and ensure your voice is heard.