Hit and Run Accident

State traffic laws require parties involved in accidents to follow certain procedures immediately after an accident has occurred. If you are a driver involved in a hit-and-run accident, do the following.

• Remain at the scene of the accident; don't leave
• Check on the condition of the person you hit
• Call emergency services for assistance
• Call the police
• Get the contact information from all the witnesses to the accident
• Inform you insurance company about the accident
• Get a copy of the police report
• Do not apologize at the scene, as this may be considered evidence of fault
• Cooperate with the police in their accident investigation

If your are the victim of the hit-and-run accident:

• Ÿ Make sure to give police the details of the accident
• Ÿ Get the contact information from all the witnesses to the accident
• Ÿ Get a copy of the police report
• Ÿ Get the contact information and insurance information from the driver who hit you
• Ÿ Keep track of all your medical treatments and expenses
• Ÿ Don't settle with the insurance company before consulting a personal injury attorney

Legal Consequences of Hit-and-Run

When hit and run accidents result in serious injuries and/or death, a driver can be charged with the following criminal charges:

• Felony hit and run if the driver leaves the scene of the accident
• Involuntary vehicular manslaughter if the victim dies because of criminal negligence or a violation of traffic safety laws (DUI, speeding)

If convicted of a criminal charge, the driver may be subject to:

• Imprisonment
• Fines
• Loss of driving privileges
• Payment of restitution to the injured party and/or the dependants

Help from Hit and Run Accident Lawyers

With the prospect of serious criminal charges such as vehicular manslaughter, it's important to seek the assistance of a personal injury attorney experienced with hit and run accidents. The attorney can perform an accident investigation of your case to determine if you have any defenses to avoid criminal charges as well as defend against a potential civil lawsuit by the injured party and/or his or her family. Possible defenses include:

• Not at fault for the accident; the victim was at fault
• No negligence by the driver