Why Do Drivers Leave The Scene Of An Accident

There is a wide variety of reasons that drivers leave the scene of an accident. Most of the time, the driver knowingly chooses to leave the scene because he or she wishes to avoid justice or take responsibility for their actions. Sometimes, however, the driver is genuinely unaware that they were involved in an accident or so incapacitated by drugs or alcohol to know that an incident has taken place. 

Some reasons for leaving the scene of an accident may include:

• Intoxication by drugs or alcohol
• Fear of arrest for outstanding warrants or unlicensed/uninsured operation
• Aggressive or intentional driving conduct
• Causing an accident without a vehicle contact
• Light contact that is not felt by the driver
• Hope to avoid a traffic ticket or adverse driving record

These (and other reasons) are often why drivers may flee the scene of an accident.

If you have been injured in a hit and run accident, it is imperative that you call the police immediately. Let law enforcement investigate your accident since they have tools to access traffic cameras, interview witnesses and perform an investigation. After the police are involved, you should seek medical attention to assess your injuries as soon as possible. Finally, a free consultation with the experienced lawyers at Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP will assist you in protecting your rights to receive fair and just compensation for your injuries.

Common Injuries That Result from Hit and Run Accidents

Unfortunately, drivers often leave the scene of an accident when they perceive that severe or catastrophic injuries may have resulted from their actions. In reality, however, hit and run injuries vary widely and may include:

• Head or brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Spine damage
• Internal organ trauma
• Skin and tissue tearing
• Joint dislocation or damage
• Death

Can I Receive Compensation if the Hit and Run Driver Is Not Located

No matter what influenced a negligent driver’s split-second decision to leave the scene, locating them is often challenging even with police involvement. Even if the police are unable to locate the identity and insurance of the responsible driver, the lawyers at Dansker & Aspromonte Associates LLP have experience conducting their own investigation at the place of your accident. Depending on the unique circumstances of your incident we may be able to locate witnesses or video footage of your accident that the police were unable or unwilling to obtain. Even the best investigation does not guarantee that a fleeing driver will ever be located.

If the identity of the hit and run driver is not determined, you may be able to make a claim with your own insurance company if you are covered by your own or a family member’s vehicle insurance policy. The time to make a claim to your own insurance policy is limited and you must notify your own insurance company within a reasonable time after your hit and run accident. If you fail to notify your insurance company of your intention to make a claim within a certain deadline you may be prevented from receiving the compensation you would otherwise be entitled to.

If you were injured in a hit and run accident but do not have a vehicle or live in a household that has a vehicle, you may be entitled to make a claim with an organization known as The Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC). MVAIC provides financial compensation to hit and run victims that have no other source of insurance coverage to pay their damages. Like your own insurance company, you must bring a claim with MVAIC within a deadline or you will be barred from receiving compensation.

Your time to act is limited. If you have been seriously injured in hit and run accident, don’t delay. A personal injury lawyer from our team is available to discuss your rights today.