I’ve been Injured in a Hit and Run Accident: What Should I Do?
When you have been injured in a hit and run accident you probably want to know what your rights are. Laws can be confusing and dealing with insurance companies can be extremely frustrating, especially if you aren’t sure what you should do or if you are even getting the care and medical attention that you need.
A good personal injury lawyer can navigate the system, but first you need to understand how it all works and find the best course of action to get through your ordeal.
Understanding the Law
Boca Raton, Florida’s “hit and run” laws are structured so that if a person is injured in a vehicle accident he or she can receive the medical care that they need and are financially compensated for any property damage and medical expenses. In the event of a vehicle accident, all drivers involved must:
- Stop at the scene and remain there until the police release them (when police are called to respond)
- Provide valid identification to drivers of all vehicles that are involved in the accident
- Provide assistance to any who need it to the capacity that they are able
A driver who does not adhere to these laws may face criminal charges including a fine and even jail time. If the passenger encourages the driver to flee or if they take the wheel and drive away then they too could face prosecution.
Observation is Powerful
When there is an accident and one of the vehicles leaves the scene, the police will launch an investigation.
As the primary witness you need to try to remember as much about the physical description of the car and driver as you can. Of course, if you are badly injured or unconscious it is not likely you would even be aware of such things.
If you are conscious and cognizant, though, try to remember what you can about the make and model of the vehicle, the color, any notable features and the direction they went when they left.
If you can get a description of the driver, that is good as well and if you can get the license number, that is great. Write down as much as you can remember even before the police arrive so that you won’t forget anything.
Florida is a “No Fault” State
When a driver sustains an injury as a result of a hit and run it can leave them with no other recourse than to turn to their own insurance company or compensation. Florida’s no-fault laws assign responsibility to insurance companies to pay a portion of the medical and other expenses of their own insured.
In the case of a hit and run, uninsured/underinsured coverage can help pay for some of the damages or any injuries that are a result.
Experienced Legal Counsel is your Best Bet
When involved in a hit and run accident, getting an experienced personal injury lawyer is a very wise move. They can help you get the medical compensation you need as well as property damage costs, lost wages and funeral costs if necessary.
They know the law and understand its intricacies so they can be your most effective ally during a very difficult time. When you are hurt in an accident, don’t waste any time. Talk to a hit and run attorney right away.
Get The Help & Resources You Deserve
If you or your passenger has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, lost a loved one as a result of the accident, or if you would like more information about other serious injury cases click here or contact Glotzer & Kobren, P.A. personal injury attorneys at 561-361-8677.
