A hit and run accident is always unexpected, so it can be difficult to comprehend what to do next. When the other driver leaves the accident scene, you’ll be unable to hold them accountable for all your damages. Some individuals do this because they don’t want to pay for all of your damages. Others are scared they’ll get in trouble with the police because of another illegal activity. In some cases, drivers aren’t insured, which is why they don’t want to stay at the scene.
Because you have no one to hold accountable, you are often stuck with expensive damages you must pay on your own. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t get help. Contact a car accident lawyer in Florida to find out how they can prepare you for a settlement claim. If the police catch the hit and run driver, you can obtain fair compensation from them with the help of your attorney. For a free consultation with our dependable legal team, call Fasig | Brooks.
What Happens After a Florida Hit And Run Accident?
Hit and run accidents happen when a driver hits another vehicle and leaves the scene without contacting the other driver or waiting for the police. It is illegal for a driver to leave the accident scene without allowing the local officers to file a police report. Because the driver likely caused you serious harm, they are liable for those damages.
Hit and run drivers can be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. If the hit and run driver caused injuries, they can receive up to five years in prison and get hit with a $5,000 fine. When the hit and run driver causes a serious injury, they can then be issued a second-degree felony which requires up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Can I sue for a hit and run car accident in Florida?
You can take legal action and sue for a hit and run accident in Florida. However, this only applies if the hit and run driver is caught. This is entirely up to the police to investigate. Once you’ve been in a hit and run accident and a police report is filed, the officers have to track down the hit and run driver. If they apprehend the at-fault driver, you can seek compensation from their insurance company. Florida is a no-fault state, which means that your insurance company will pay for your damages whether or not you caused the accident. You and your attorney then file an accident claim with the other party’s insurance company to get compensation for your damages.
What are the Reasons For Hit and Run Accidents?
Most hit and run driving accidents remain unsolved, and only 10% of the drivers get caught. Hit and run drivers flee the scene of an accident for a wide number of reasons. The top reasons hit and run accidents happen are the following:
Drunk Drivers
Intoxicated drivers may crash into other vehicles without stopping. They know the charges will be more serious and don’t want to face the punishments and penalties that await them.
Panic
A hit and run driver may panic and drive away from the scene of an accident they caused. Even though they might have a clean driving record, they may drive away because they are afraid of the consequences.
Legal Issues
Drivers that are on parole might have a suspended license or other issues which cause them to drive away from the scene so they don’t get into further trouble. They do this to avoid any additional penalties.
Outstanding Warrants Or Tickets
A driver that has outstanding warrants or unpaid tickets may leave the scene so that they don’t get arrested. These drivers don’t want to get penalized with additional violations for causing a serious crash.
Uninsured Driver
Drivers that are uninsured have no way to pay for the damages they caused. It is also illegal to operate a vehicle without insurance, which can result in legal punishment if caught by officers.
Why You Need a Florida Hit And Run Accident Lawyer
Hit and run lawyers help protect your right to compensation and represent your personal injury case. They manage your lawsuit or settlement claim by advocating on your behalf. If the police catch the individual who is guilty of this serious crime, the law firm can take action. Accident attorneys gather evidence, investigate the car accident, review police reports, and reach out to all involved parties. They negotiate on your behalf to get a fair settlement. Your attorney works on a contingency fee basis, which means that you only pay if we win your case. Contact Fasig | Brooks for a free consultation.
