What Can You Get For a Hit and Run?
Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense that can have long-term impacts on your life. It could result in a felony charge, revocation of your driver’s license, or even jail time, depending on the circumstances of the incident.
In addition to criminal penalties, a hit, and run can lead to financial consequences from your insurance company. In most states, drivers who leave the scene of an accident aren’t covered under their own insurance policy. However, some states offer uninsured motorist coverage that can help cover your medical bills and property damage (depending on state law), as long as you meet the coverage’s requirements.
What Do a Hit and Run Look Like?
In most states, a hit and run is defined as an accident where a driver leaves the scene before offering information or assistance to those involved. This can include sharing contact information, ensuring that others are able to seek medical attention, or giving other aid to anyone who needs it.
A driver’s duty to stop at the scene of an accident is an essential safety requirement that should be honored by all. Most states also require that drivers remain at the scene of an accident if they believe someone is injured or in need of aid.
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run, it’s important to gather as much information as you can about the other driver. This information can be very helpful when police officers arrive on the scene to investigate. You’ll want to know the vehicle’s name, description, and license plate number, as well as any witnesses who were at the scene.
Immediately following the accident, take photos or video of the scene so that you can document exactly what happened. This will make the police’s investigation easier and will likely help you recover compensation for your damages.
It’s also helpful to have a list of all the people who were present at the crash. Getting the names and contact numbers of these individuals can be a big help in finding the hit-and-run driver.
Call the police to report your accident as soon as possible. The police will need the details you’ve gathered about the accident and will help you recover any lost wages or other financial expenses from your insurance provider.
Check your car for physical evidence that can help locate the other driver, such as a broken window or scratched paint. This will help you get more compensation if you can identify the person responsible for your injuries.
If the other driver is found, they may be charged with a hit and run, which can carry a felony penalty in some states. This penalty can range from the revocation of your driver’s license to jail time, and it could also impact your insurance rates for years to come.
Taking legal action after a hit and run can be difficult, but a good attorney will guide you through the process. He or she can help you understand your rights and determine how to best pursue justice for your losses, including the financial costs related to your medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.