How to Navigate the Laws of Hit & Run Car Accidents

Every year in the United States, thousands of innocent individuals fall victim to the heart-wrenching crime of hit and run car accidents. These incidents, where a driver involved in a collision flees the scene without providing assistance or identifying themselves, leave victims physically injured, emotionally scarred, and often financially burdened. As an expert in the field, I aim to shed light on the challenges faced by hit and run accident victims in Washington, the legal recourse available to them, and the measures being taken to address this pervasive issue.

Understanding Hit and Run Accidents

A hit and run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision, whether with another vehicle, pedestrian, or property, intentionally leaves the scene without stopping to render aid or provide their identification details. The reasons behind hit and run incidents can vary, including fear of consequences, intoxication, lack of insurance, or simply a callous disregard for human life. Such accidents leave victims vulnerable, with little information about the responsible party, making the process of seeking justice and compensation all the more challenging.

The Magnitude of the Problem

The magnitude of hit and run accidents in the United States is alarming. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, there were over 737,100 hit and run crashes reported in 2015, resulting in 2,049 fatalities. This translates to one hit and run fatality every 67 minutes. Additionally, the number of hit and run incidents appears to be on the rise, raising concerns about road safety and the well-being of innocent victims.

Legal Recourse for Hit and Run Victims

Hit and run accident victims have rights and legal options, even when the responsible party is unidentified. The first crucial step for victims is to immediately report the incident to law enforcement and seek medical attention for any injuries sustained. Authorities will initiate an investigation, looking for witnesses, surveillance footage, and any available evidence to identify the fleeing driver.

If the at-fault driver is found, they may face criminal charges, such as leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving, or vehicular manslaughter, depending on the severity of the incident. In addition to criminal charges, the hit and run driver may be held civilly liable for the damages they caused, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

Dealing with Uninsured Motorists

In many hit and run cases, the at-fault driver is never identified or located, leaving the victim to deal with the aftermath of the accident without a responsible party to hold accountable. In such situations, hit and run victims may be eligible for compensation through their own insurance policies. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can provide financial protection when the responsible party is uninsured, underinsured, or unknown.

UM coverage is mandatory in some states, while in others, drivers have the option to reject or reduce this coverage. Hit and run accident victims who have UM coverage can file a claim with their insurance company to seek compensation for their damages up to the policy limits. However, it’s important to note that insurance companies may still try to minimize payouts, making legal representation advisable to ensure fair compensation. Having a knowledgeable hit and run car accident attorneys on your side will help you significantly.

Seeking Legal Counsel

Navigating the aftermath of a hit and run car accident can be overwhelming, emotionally draining, and legally complex. Hit and run victims should strongly consider seeking the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney. A skilled lawyer can help gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, protect the victim’s rights, and pursue the maximum compensation available under the law.

Community Measures and Legislation

Recognizing the severity of the hit and run problem, communities and lawmakers across the United States are taking action to address the issue. Public awareness campaigns are being launched to encourage responsible behavior on the roads and to highlight the devastating consequences of hit and run accidents. Additionally, some states are enacting tougher penalties for hit and run drivers to deter such behavior and promote greater accountability.

Hit & Run Car Accident Lawyer

Hit and run car accidents leave a trail of physical and emotional devastation for victims in the United States. The legal maze that follows can be daunting, but there are options for seeking justice and compensation. The car accident lawyers at Fielding Law Group can help you with your case. Whether through identifying the at-fault driver or utilizing uninsured motorist coverage, hit and run victims have rights and avenues to pursue their claims. If you or someone you know becomes a victim of a hit and run accident, seeking legal counsel and support can be crucial in securing the necessary resources for recovery and moving towards healing. Together, as a society, we must work to create safer roads and ensure that hit and run incidents become a thing of the past.