Hit and run car accidents are some of the most frustrating since finding the culprit can be challenging. Hit and runs also result in a lot of damages, such as property damage. They can also lead to fatalities.
These accidents continue to grow at alarming rates, leaving their victims to deal with the consequences. If you or a loved one was involved in a hit and run accident, you should contact Florida hit and run car accident lawyers. They can help you get financial reimbursement for your damages and help your recovery.
Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene?
In an ideal world, the party responsible for an accident should stay behind and offer whatever assistance they can to the injured party. However, you might find that drivers leave the accident scene in some cases without even confirming if the victim is okay.
Drivers flee the accident scene generally because they are breaking some laws. Some might not have insurance and don't want to get fines for that, or they were acting in a sudden rush of road rage. The driver might not know that they hit someone and drive away in rare cases.
Some of the other reasons drivers flee the scene include:
- They were driving under the influence
- They don't have a valid driver's license
- The driver doesn't want to go to jail
None of these reasons is a valid excuse for driving away from the accident. It also doesn't help the victim, and in some cases, it can even worsen their situation since it might be a while before anyone finds them. Contacting Florida hit and run car accident lawyers is crucial as they might help you get compensation even when the driver isn't identified.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run
Depending on the state you are in after an accident, you can take a few steps to get your aid. These steps also give your Florida hit and run car accident lawyers a better shot at getting you a worthwhile settlement. These steps are:
Call the Police
This is one of the most crucial steps. The police can assist and even ensure you get to the hospital on time. They can also collect evidence left on the scene and investigate the surrounding areas.
One thing you should not under any circumstances do is follow the fleeing driver. This takes you away from the accident scene, making it harder for the police to reach you. Most importantly, it endangers you.
The fleeing driver can be dangerous and might confront you or hurt you. You can help by giving the police any information you can remember about them and their car.
Go to the Emergency Room
This is the second most important step. It would be best if you went to the hospital, no matter how small or insignificant you think your injuries are. Let the doctors clear you and check for any external injuries. They also make records of your injuries that your Florida hit and run car accident lawyers can use when filing claims.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
Getting insurance settlements is not always a given, and the process can be tedious. Florida hit and run car accident lawyers are familiar with the system and can use their knowledge to navigate it. They can file lawsuits and appeals, exhausting all available legal options until you get a fair settlement.
Pursue Compensation
Dealing with hospital bills and other issues can be challenging, especially if you hadn't planned on it and have a tight budget. Contacting Florida hit and run car accident lawyers gives you access to some of the best legal minds who can ensure you get compensation for your damages.
What Happens If the Driver Is Found?
Sometimes the police can track down the fleeing driver. If they find the driver, you can hold them accountable and file personal injury claims against the driver. You must, however, be able to prove that they hit you and caused your injuries before getting compensation.
Your Florida hit and run car accident lawyers can help you find evidence showing the driver's negligent behavior and proving breach of duty of care. This is another reason you need police and hospital records showing your injuries and connecting them to the accident. The responsible driver should pay for your injuries and other resulting damages with enough evidence.
What Happens If the Driver Is Not Found?
Finding a fleeing driver isn't always easy, and sometimes they are never found. Despite this, you can still get compensation for your damages from your insurer. In Florida, all motorists need Personal Injury Protection coverage. The exact amount varies according to your coverage.
You can also use other insurance policies to get compensation, such as medical insurance coverage or uninsured or underinsured motorist protective coverage. You can also get compensation if you are a beneficiary in someone else's insurance coverage.
Recoverable Damages
The damages you can recover after a hit and run accident depend on your injuries and the extent of other damages.
They can cover:
- Medical bills
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Lost income
- Property damage
In cases where the hit and run resulted in a death, family members can pursue compensation for their loved ones. Contact a wrongful death attorney who can help you file the necessary claims. The recoverable damages can cover the funeral expenses, hospital stay bills before their passing, and other damages from the accident.
Contact Our Florida Hit and Run Car Accident Lawyers
Our policy at Dolman Law Group is to protect your legal rights. Our Florida hit and run car accident lawyers have enough experience in such accidents and can ensure you get justice for your injuries. Call us and find the best course of action for your case today.