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What Steps Should I Take if I’m Involved in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs anytime a person flees the scene of the accident without checking others for injuries or exchanging information. It may involve a motorist hitting a parked vehicle or two vehicles colliding with one another.
The Sunshine State is no stranger to hit-and-run accidents. In a recent year, Florida experienced 104,273 hit-and-run crashes, with an estimated 25% of the state’s total crashes being attributed to hit-and-runs.
As an injury victim, you deserve to be compensated fully for your losses. Our Tampa car accident lawyers would like to discuss steps that should be taken to preserve your rights in the aftermath of a crash.
Move Out of the Way of Traffic
If you have fallen victim to a hit-and-run accident, you may feel agitated and bewildered. In your state of shock, you may find yourself frozen. This can be incredibly dangerous, especially if you are sitting in the middle of the road. Following a hit-and-run, if it is safe to drive your vehicle, move your vehicle out of the way of oncoming traffic.
Report the Incident
Besides accounting for your safety, you should check yourself for injuries. If you are hurt, you will want to call 911. If you were not injured, you do have the option of calling Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
Under Florida law, a driver is required to stop at the scene of an accident even if the crash only resulted in vehicle or property damage. A person who violates this statute has committed a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by 60 days in prison.
Document the Scene and Take Down the Names of Any Witnesses
Any pictures that you can take at the accident scene can help to show what happened. This may include shards of glass from a broken taillight, shredded tires, or even skid marks on the road. If there are any witnesses, you will want to gather their names and contact information in the event that you need them to call on them to testify later on. You will also want to get a copy of the police report since this will provide further details regarding the accident.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible, you will want to report the hit-and-run accident to your insurance company. Be sure to mention to your insurer that you were involved in an accident in which the other driver fled the scene. If you have uninsured motorist insurance (optional coverage in Florida), then your insurance company will pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses when the at-fault driver is unknown.
Contact a Tampa Car Accident Lawyer
A Tampa car accident lawyer can assist you in filing a claim following a hit-and-run accident. Our attorneys have experience in a variety of car accident claims, including hit-and-runs. When you work with our legal team, we will keep you informed of the progress of your claim each step of the way.
Additionally, we have connections with professionals in other fields, including highway safety experts. These highly trained professionals can use the information provided to demonstrate the liability of the other driver.
Reach Out to a Tampa Car Accident Lawyer Immediately
The injuries that you sustain in a hit-and-run accident can be significant, preventing you from returning to your job and other normal activities. If you have fallen victim to a hit-and-run, feel free to reach out to our Tampa car accident lawyers. To arrange your initial consultation, contact us online or by phone today.