Leaving the scene of a serious car accident in Florida is against the law. It’s unimaginable that anyone could ever do such a thing. But hit-and-run accidents sadly happen more often in Central Florida than many people realize. They're one of the most common types of car accidents.
After a car accident, it is natural to feel frightened and concerned. You may wonder what to do, who to talk to, and if you will be punished for your actions. Know that these feelings are normal. After a car accident, there are specific measures that you should take to protect yourself and the members involved. Under no circumstances should you flee from an accident scene without reporting the accident.
Hit-and-run accidents are considered misdemeanors and felonies and can result in serious fines and jail time, mainly if severe bodily injuries or deaths occur. If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, you should contact an experienced car accident lawyer right away. One of our knowledgeable hit-and-run accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Brent C. Miller, P.A. can help you every step of the way.
There are many reasons why drivers flee the scene of an accident, including:
First and most importantly, you should seek medical attention. Even if you do not experience any pain or physical bruising, you should gain a comprehensive physical examination. Often, automobile accidents result in tragic injuries that do not cause pain until weeks, months, or even years after a car accident.
After a hit-and-run accident, you should record as much information as possible. For example, take photos of the scene, property damage, and bodily injuries. Also, record the location, time, and specific details of the incident.
If possible, attempt to acquire the license plate number of the other driver.
Contact the police and provide them with the license plate number. Complete an accident report with the police.
If witnesses are around, get their names and contact information. Then, provide the police with the list of witnesses.
Contact an experienced accident lawyer.
What makes a hit-and-run accident so unique is that because the participating driver flees from the scene, it is often difficult to acquire basic information about the driver. This makes it difficult to pursue a lawsuit or file a claim. It is normal to experience lengthy delays and frustration after a hit-and-run accident. Still, with the assistance of an experienced accident attorney, the process can go much more smoothly.
The truth about hit-and-run accidents is that they are challenging to gain recovery for damages, a legal term for financial compensation. However, if the hit-and-run driver is found, you can file a lawsuit; otherwise, you can pursue an uninsured motorist claim with your own insurance company if you have UM coverage. In either case, accident attorneys are vital to hit-and-run accidents. Here are a few benefits that an accident lawyer may offer:
Like other motor vehicle accidents, insurance companies often determine who was at fault in a hit-and-run accident. Your insurance company will decide if you caused your crash since the other driver’s insurance company is unknown.
As a result, it’s important that you have someone on your side advocating for your legal rights after your hit-and-run crash. Otherwise, your injury claim may be denied, and you could be forced to pay for your accident out of pocket. An experienced Central Florida hit-and-run accident lawyer from our law firm can be there for you every step of the way.
At the Law Offices of Brent C. Miller, our aggressive, experienced hit-and-run accident lawyers have served injured clients for over 30 years in Tavares, Clermont, The Villages, and Inverness.
Our experienced auto accident lawyers will go above and beyond to ensure you receive the compensation you need and deserve.
Contact our law firm today for a free initial consultation with a Florida hit-and-run accident attorney you can count on in a crisis. Help is just a phone call away.
