Car accidents are already stressful events, but the situation becomes far more overwhelming when the other driver flees. In such a situation, you may wonder, Can you sue someone for hit and run? How can you protect your rights?
Hit-and-run victims often face medical bills, vehicle damage, and emotional distress caused by a driver who chose not to take responsibility. If this is your experience, knowing how to respond and how a Pasco County, FL car accident lawyer can support you is the first step.
What Is a Hit-and-Run?
A hit-and-run occurs when two vehicles are involved in an accident, yet one driver leaves before exchanging information or waiting for law enforcement. This action violates Florida law, which requires all drivers involved in a collision to remain on the scene.
Drivers flee for various reasons. Some may be intoxicated, driving without a license, uninsured, or fearful of facing legal consequences for their negligence. Regardless of the reason, leaving the scene is illegal. When injuries or death occur, the offense can result in felony charges against the fleeing driver.
What Should I Do if a Driver Flees the Scene?
Your instinct may be to chase after the fleeing driver, but this is dangerous and highly discouraged. You may be injured, unable to drive safely, or at risk if the other driver is behaving recklessly.
Instead, remain at the scene and call the police immediately. Provide the responding officers with as much information as you can, such as the vehicle’s make, model, color, and any partial license plate details.
Law enforcement will investigate your vehicle’s damage and check nearby vehicles for matching collision marks. Their report will serve as evidence if the driver is located.
How Can an Attorney Assist Me During This Time?
Although it may feel impossible to identify the driver, working with an attorney greatly increases the likelihood of finding the person responsible. An experienced lawyer can conduct a detailed investigation into your accident and help uncover key evidence.
An attorney may request surveillance footage from nearby homes, businesses, or traffic cameras to identify the fleeing vehicle. They can also work with law enforcement, speak with witnesses, and analyze the damage patterns to assist in locating the driver. If the individual is identified, your attorney can help you pursue compensation through a personal injury claim.
Can I Still Recover Compensation If the Driver Is Never Found?
Many victims worry that, in the event the hit-and-run driver is never identified, they will have no way to recover their losses. Fortunately, Florida drivers can still get compensation using their own uninsured motorist coverage, medical payments coverage, or personal injury protection benefits. These policies can help cover medical treatment, lost wages, and other damages related to the crash.
Even without identifying the driver, an attorney can help you navigate your insurance options and negotiate with your carrier. Legal representation is especially important in such situations because insurance companies often attempt to limit payouts in hit-and-run claims.
Getting the Right Legal Support After a Hit-and-Run
If you are the victim of a hit-and-run, you do not have to face this situation alone. The Law Offices of Matthew J. Jowanna, P.A. has the experience and resources to help you seek compensation. Contact us today to discuss your case and find out how we can protect your rights during this challenging time.