March 18, 2022
Categories: Personal Injury, Uncategorized
Accidents are traumatizing. Worse yet, hit and run accidents are even more brutal and horrifying, especially when the driver goes untraced. Victims are left bearing the brunt of the accident without holding anyone accountable for their injuries. As such, you may need a Tampa Bay car accident attorney for legal counsel and support.
According to Florida law, drivers are required to stop at the accident scene and identify themselves. Regrettably, not all motorists abide by this law. In fact, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), the year 2020 saw an 18 percent spike in hit and run fatalities. While the total number of such crashes decreased by 13 percent in 2020, the rise in deaths left Florida’s families reeling.
Most drivers that leave the scene of an accident before they are identified are at fault. Sometimes, it could be panic that makes them flee, but mostly they are either drunk, carry no insurance, or violate other traffic rules. Whatever the reason, hit and run incidents are illegal and diminish the chances of the accident victim getting immediate medical care.
Victims can’t dictate the action of offenders, as much as we might wish that they could. So it’s vital to understand what you need to do to avoid worsening the situation. First, it’s advisable to stay as calm as possible while making sure you are okay. Other steps you can take when involved in a crash include:
• If possible, move to the side of the road to avoid a secondary accident.
• Try to identify the driver. If you can do so safely, write down details about the other vehicle (color, model, or partial license plate number) immediately after the accident when your mind is still fresh.
• Check the condition of others involved. Contact 911 if there are injuries or the vehicle is disabled.
Accidents, including hit and runs, leave a trail of destruction along their paths. Loss of income and injuries are some costs of auto accidents. After the unfortunate hit and run accident, the chances of getting justice might seem slim.
However, with the help of a proper Tampa Bay hit and run accident attorney, justice is on the way. They will investigate the crash, work to prove liability, explore all compensation options available, and explain your legal rights. A good personal injury attorney handles all the legal paperwork while you focus on your recovery.
If you have been involved in a hit and run accident, you might feel as if you are alone. However, at Wagner, McLaughlin & Whittemore, we’ve got your back. As your Tampa Bay accident attorney, we are compassionate and knowledgeable about all aspects of personal injury law, including hit and run situations. Contact us today, and we will help you get the compensation – and justice — you deserve.