Posted in Car accident
Suffering injuries in a car accident is stressful, but when that crash is caused by a hit and run driver, victims are often left with the added stress of who will be liable for the medical bills, property damage, and any other financial losses they suffer because of the crash. Fortunately, there are legal options that victims do have and a car accident lawyer can help.
How Common Are Hit and Run Accidents?
According to national statistics, there are almost 750,000 hit and run car accidents that occur each year in the United States. Tragically, more than 2,000 people are killed each year by a driver who flees the scene. This number had doubled over the past 10 years and continues to see an increase every year. Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable – about 70 percent of all victims killed by hit and run drivers are either on foot or on a bike.
What Causes a Driver to Flee?
Every state has laws that require drivers who are involved in car accidents to stop and “render aid” if there are victims injured and/or property damage that has occurred in the accident. Drivers are also required to report the accident to law enforcement. So, when a driver does flee the scene, they are essentially breaking the law. Which often begs the question – why would more than one-third of a million drivers willingly break the law knowing there could be serious criminal consequences?
Some of the more common reasons why a driver flees the scene of the crash include:
- The driver was operating the vehicle on a suspended license or no license.
- The driver was operating an uninsured vehicle.
- The driver was operating an unregistered vehicle.
- The driver was operating a stolen vehicle.
- The driver was operating under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- The driver has outstanding warrants on them.
- The driver was transporting some kind of illegal substance or items.
If You Are in a Hit and Run Accident?
If you are involved in an accident where the driver has fled the scene, call the police, try to get a good description of the vehicle and driver, as well as the license plate, if you are physically and safely able to do so. Call the police from the scene of the accident and report it. The police may be able to obtain enough evidence to find the driver.
Even if you do not think you have suffered an injury, you should still seek medical attention to make sure. Many car accident injuries have delayed symptoms and the sooner you see a doctor, the better for your health and potential case.
Your next step should be to contact a car accident lawyer who will help you determine what your legal options are to obtain financial compensation for your losses.
Call a Personal Injury Law Firm Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you may be able to pursue a claim for your medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, and more. Do not try to go through this process alone. Call an experienced attorney, like an Atlanta, GA car accident lawyer from Council & Associates, LLC.
