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 far more often in Central Florida than many people might 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 be wondering 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, especially if severe bodily injuries and/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 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. These include:
Whatever the reason why, it's important to talk to a legal professional as soon as possible about the details of your case.
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. Take photos of the scene, property damage and bodily injuries. Take record of the location, time and the 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 there are any witnesses around, gain their basic contact information (full name, address and phone number). 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 and/or file a claim. It is normal to experience lengthy delays and frustration after a hit-and-run accident, but 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 extremely difficult to gain recovery for damages, a legal term for financial compensation. 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:
At the Law Offices of Brent C. Miller, our aggressive, experienced lawyers have been serving injured clients for over 25 years in Tavares, Clermont, The Villages and Inverness. There is no need for you to experience pain and suffering alone.
Hit-and-run accidents are against the law, and our experienced auto accident lawyers will go above and beyond to ensure that you are compensated for your lost wages, medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.
Contact our law firm today for a free initial consultation. Help is just a phone call away.
