Hit-and-run incidents can leave victims in a state of uncertainty and vulnerability. Understanding Florida’s laws regarding hit-and-run accidents and knowing the appropriate actions to take as a victim are crucial for protecting your rights and seeking justice. This blog post provides essential information on Florida’s hit-and-run laws and outlines the steps victims should follow in the aftermath of such incidents.

Florida’s Hit-and-Run Laws

In Florida, a hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a crash fails to stop at the scene or fails to provide their information to the other parties involved. Florida law requires drivers to stop immediately at the scene of an accident involving injury, death, or property damage and exchange information with the other parties or report the incident to law enforcement.

Types of Hit-and-Run Incidents

Hit-and-run accidents can involve various scenarios, including:

• Vehicle Collisions: Where a driver strikes another vehicle and flees the scene without stopping.
• Pedestrian Accidents: Involving a pedestrian being struck by a vehicle whose driver fails to stop and provide assistance.
• Property Damage: Such as hitting a parked car or damaging someone’s property and leaving without notifying the owner.

Steps for Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents

If you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident in Florida, here are the steps you should take:

Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention:

• Safety First: If you are able to do so safely, move your vehicle to the side of the road and out of traffic. Check yourself and others for injuries.
• Call 911: Contact emergency services immediately, especially if anyone is injured. Prompt medical attention is crucial, even if injuries seem minor or not immediately apparent.

Gather Information:

• Document the Scene: If possible, collect as much information as you can about the incident:
• Vehicle Description: Note the make, model, color, and license plate number of the fleeing vehicle.
• Witnesses: Get contact information from any witnesses who saw the accident.

File a Police Report:

• Report to Law Enforcement: Call the police and file a report of the hit-and-run accident. Provide them with all the details and information you have gathered.

Notify Your Insurance Company:

• Inform Your Insurer: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the police report number and any other relevant information.

Document and Preserve Evidence:

• Document Damages: Take photos of any damage to your vehicle, injuries you sustained, and any other property damage caused by the accident.
• Keep Records: Maintain copies of all medical bills, repair estimates, and any correspondence with insurance companies.

Seek Legal Advice:

• Consult with an Attorney: Consider seeking legal advice from a personal injury attorney who has experience handling hit-and-run cases. An attorney can help protect your rights, navigate insurance claims, and pursue compensation for your losses.

Legal Recourse for Hit-and-Run Victims

Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Florida may face challenges in identifying and holding the responsible party accountable. However, legal recourse may still be possible through:

• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Your own insurance policy may include coverage for hit-and-run accidents under uninsured motorist provisions.
• Civil Lawsuit: If the driver is identified, you may pursue a civil lawsuit to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Conclusion

Experiencing a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming, but knowing the steps to take can help protect your rights and improve your chances of obtaining compensation. By understanding Florida’s hit-and-run laws and promptly following the recommended actions, you can navigate the aftermath of such incidents more effectively. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice to ensure your rights are upheld and you receive the support you need to recover.