According to Wikipedia, a hit-and-run accident is defined as “the act of causing a traffic accident and not stopping afterward. It is considered a supplemental crime in most jurisdictions.” In other words, leaving the scene of an accident you caused is against the law. Unfortunately, many drivers are too nervous, angry, or complacent to stop. For this reason, car accident lawyer offices work around the clock to provide justice to those injured in hit-and-run accidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a reckless driver, call our experienced team at Fetterman & Associates to file your Florida personal injury lawsuit. Our office is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
The History
“Hit-and-run” laws arose from the difficulties that early traffic collision victims faced in identifying perpetrators so that they could be brought to justice,” Wikipedia reads. “Apart from the obvious ability of an automobile to flee the scene quickly…drivers often wore driving goggles, vehicles at the time did not have license plates, and roads were unpaved and thus quite dirty.”
Regardless of the changes in technology and fashion, hit-and-run accidents have continued at an alarming rate.
Why Drivers Leave
While there’s no concrete way of knowing why a driver fled the scene of an accident, there are two popular reasons: the driver is not properly licensed, or the driver is not properly insured. The driver may also be interested in avoiding law enforcement for other reasons, such as ongoing criminal activity. This means following a driver fleeing the scene is not advisable. Instead, get in touch with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Steps to Follow
As State Farm outlines, there are several things you should do (if possible) after being injured in a hit-and-run accident.
- First, get the license plate number of the other vehicle. Even a partial number will help.
- Next, call the police and report the incident.
- After speaking with police, you’ll be asked to complete an accident report. Include any potential witnesses in this report and be as thorough as possible.
- Finally, call your insurance company and report the accident.
On the flip side, there are several things you should not do after being injured in a hit-and-run accident, including:
- Blocking traffic while waiting for first responders.
- Remaining in your vehicle if you cannot leave a travel lane.
- Leaving the scene of the accident to confront the other driver.
Taking these actions could lead to further crashes, injuries, and arrests. Instead, contact a car accident lawyer to file your Florida personal injury lawsuit as soon as possible.
Get in Touch With a Hit-and-Run Car Accident Lawyer For Representation
There are few things more stressful than being injured in a hit-and-run accident. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to the negligence of another driver, contact our team of experienced personal injury attorneys at Fetterman & Associates by calling 561-845-2510. Our mobile office will come to you, ensuring you get the medical care and treatment you need – and the compensation you deserve.