Understanding Hit And Run Laws - What You Need To Know

There are various reasons why drivers leave the scene of an accident. However, fleeing the scene of even a minor fender bender can have significant consequences.

Unfortunately, many people do not understand hit-and-run laws. It is often because the media focuses on car accidents involving severe injuries and deaths.

What Is a Hit and Run?

Leaving the scene of an accident after colliding with another vehicle or pedestrian without offering assistance or providing insurance information is classified as a hit-and-run offense. This act is against the law and can result in criminal charges, administrative sanctions such as points on your driver’s license, or even permanent revocation. The severity of the legal consequences will vary based on the crash’s nature and the regulations in your state.

The most common hit-and-run involves a vehicle hitting a parked car, and then the driver flees without leaving a note or calling for help. But a hit and run can also occur when you hit a fixed object or person, like a tree or lamp post, and then leave the scene without stopping to see if anyone is hurt or to get their contact information.

In most states, a hit and run is a misdemeanor, but if the collision caused moderate to serious bodily injury, it is a felony, which can lead to significant jail time and fines. In addition, most states have statutes that allow punitive damages to be awarded in cases involving especially dangerous or egregious conduct.

What Are the Penalties for Leaving the Scene of an Accident?

Leaving the scene of an accident is often a criminal offense, and the penalties vary by state. However, every state requires drivers to stop their vehicles immediately after an accident and exchange personal information with the other driver or pedestrian if physically able. Depending on the circumstances, a driver who flees without providing contact or insurance information could be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony.

A court may downgrade a hit-and-run to a straightforward traffic infraction if the accident was accidental and did not result in injuries. Visit https://www.wshanejennings.com for information on hit-and-run offenses and how a lawyer can help you. Convicted offenders, however, will probably have points added to their licenses and may be subject to a sizeable fine.

Most states also have civil laws that provide punitive damages in the event of a hit and run. While these damages are not meant to cover an injured plaintiff’s losses, they may be awarded to punish a defendant for particularly dangerous or outrageous conduct.

What Can You Do if You’ve Been Involved in a Hit and Run?

While car accident injuries usually bring to mind issues like property damage and insurance claims, hit-and-run accidents can have a very different impact. Even a traffic collision without injuries can lead to criminal charges and a hit-and-run conviction, depending on the state’s laws and your actions afterward.

First and foremost, call the police. It is essential not only for police to be able to catch the fleeing driver but also so that the accident is documented for insurance purposes. Try to get identifying information about the vehicle, such as the make and model. It’s also a good idea to ask eyewitnesses for their contact information.

Do not follow the driver who has fled. It’s dangerous, and you could be hurt or miss out on compensation. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. A medical diagnosis will help your case if you later seek compensation for your losses.

How Can I Protect My Rights if I’ve Been Involved in a Hit and Run?

A hit and run is a serious crime, and the penalties for this offense can be severe. Depending on the severity of the damage and any injuries, you may be fined, jailed, or lose your driver’s license.

In most cases, a driver must stop and provide identification in the event of an accident and offer assistance if needed. The driver must also stay at the scene of the crash, regardless of whether it occurs on a public road or private property.

Even if you believe the fleeing driver is out of sight, it is vital to call the police immediately so that a report can be documented. Try to get a vehicle description, including any stickers or identifying marks, and a partial or total license plate number.

Obtaining a copy of the official police report is essential if you file an insurance claim or take your case to court. This document can easily be found online. For example, if the collision happened in Houston, all you need to do is type the following on your favorite browser: Get a copy of my Houston crash report. After this, you will be required to enter some of the incident’s details, such as date, ZIP code, and your car’s VIN.

In conclusion, leaving the scene of an accident, commonly referred to as a hit and run, is a serious offense with far-reaching consequences. Understanding that hit and run laws vary by state, it is crucial for drivers to be aware of their responsibilities and potential consequences. Fleeing the scene without providing necessary information or assistance not only leads to criminal charges but can also result in administrative sanctions, points on a driver’s license, or even permanent revocation in certain cases. While hit-and-run accidents can take various forms, from minor collisions with parked cars to more severe accidents causing bodily harm, the legal repercussions can be severe. In cases where injuries are involved, a hit and run can escalate to a felony, leading to significant jail time and fines. Victims of hit-and-run incidents should remember that they have rights and should promptly report the incident to the authorities. Gathering information about the fleeing vehicle, seeking medical attention, and documenting the accident scene are crucial steps to protect those rights and ensure a fair resolution. By understanding the seriousness of hit and run offenses and acting responsibly, we can collectively contribute to safer roads and a more just legal system.