What To Do After A Hit and Run Accident

Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but it can be especially frustrating when it involves a hit and run driver. Unfortunately, hit and run accidents are more common than you’d expect. There are nearly 100,000 hit and run accidents in Florida each year. While the driver is eventually identified in a significant amount of these cases, there are still thousands of unsolved car accidents.

It is very important that you carry Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage in Florida on your auto insurance policy. The at-fault driver should be held accountable for property damage and medical bills, but this cannot always happen if they cannot be identified. Victims of hit and run car accidents can recover damages through their uninsured motorist coverage policy. Uninsured Motorist Coverage can be used to pay for medical expenses, lost wages, future loss of earning potential, and more.

There are many reasons why a driver may not stop after being involved in an accident. Some of the most common reasons include the driver being intoxicated, not having a valid license or insurance, or simply just not wanting to face the penalty for their actions. Thankfully, most accidents tend to occur in more heavily populated areas. Therefore, the hit and run driver is more likely to be identified through the help of local surveillance cameras and witnesses.

What Defines a Hit and Run Accident?

A driver who causes an accident that involves any property damage or bodily injury is required by law to remain at the site of the crash. Failing to remain at the site of the crash is known as a ‘hit and run.’

Florida Law also states that any persons involved in the accident also have several obligated duties, such as to report the accident, exchange information and call for medical assistance if needed.

A person who causes an accident and leaves the scene could face several criminal charges depending on the severity and circumstances of the accident. Charges could range from simple misdemeanor with community service or up to 30 years in prison and maximum fines.

What to do After a Hit and Run Accident

When you have been involved in a car accident that involves a hit and run driver, the most important thing we can tell you to do is what NOT to do!

Under no circumstance should you ever attempt to follow or ‘capture’ the fleeing vehicle – this is never the smartest nor safest decision. Take note of any descriptors of the vehicle you can remember – color, model, make, direction from which it came and went, etc.
If possible, remove your vehicle out of harm’s way especially if you are on a major roadway.
Check yourself and passengers for any bodily injury. If other vehicles are involved, you should safely check on their condition and call for emergency medical assistance if necessary.
Call the police to report the accident. You may be able to work with them to locate any witnesses or local video surveillance that can be used to identify the vehicle.
Take pictures of the damage to your car and all other cars involved.
Seek non-emergency medical attention if necessary.
Call the personal injury team at Gainza Law Group to discuss your options

The most important thing after a car accident is that you are safe. There are many variables that will come into play during the road ahead, like police reports and insurance companies. It’s going to get confusing and you will need to trust our experienced team at Gainza Law Group to help you. We will guide you through this stressful situation every step of the way.

The personal injury attorneys at the Gainza Law Group in Fort Lauderdale have unparalleled experience with car accident cases in Florida involving a hit and run driver, and have been extremely successful in recovering damages for their clients. We understand that it is important to hold accountable of your injuries all of the people or entities that may have contributed to them. The skillful personal injury attorneys at the Gainza Law Group are ready to help you fight for all of the compensation that you deserve. We can take your case all the way to trial if needed to maximize the money that you receive. Our personal injury team will handle everything with insurance companies, reports, bills and more.

When you need a personal injury lawyer you can trust to fight for your justice while also showing you the ultimate personal service and compassion, call the legal team at the Gainza Law Group. Our attorneys and staff are available 24 hours and here to help you and your loved ones.

Gainza Law Group
Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Attorneys
5975 N Federal Hwy #127
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308
(954) 463-1210
Personal Injury Attorneys Juan Gainza and Hilda Ramirez-Gainza