Hit and Run Accidents: Why Do Drivers Flee?

Rachel Olszewski

Hit-and-run accidents can have extreme consequences on the lives of victims. They can leave them with severe physical injuries and emotional trauma. Knowing this, the at-fault driver faces significant consequences and will attempt to flee the scene of the accident.

The fact is, hit-and-run accidents are extremely common and have risen in number in recent years, occurring far more often than any of us would like to believe. In fact, current data shows that an average of 4.6 out of 10,000 drivers have a hit-and-run violation on their record.

In this post, we’ll try to make sense of the senseless and provide answers to questions about hit-and-run accidents, what to do in a hit-and-run, why people hit and run, and what happens if you flee the scene of an accident. We’ll also shed light on what steps you can take if you’ve been injured in this type of accident.

So, What Is a Hit-and-Run?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a person involved in a car accident leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or wait for the police to arrive. A hit-and-run accident may cause injuries or death, but it can also damage property, even if other people are not involved.

For example, hitting a mailbox or a parked car, running over a sign, or crashing into just about anything that is someone else’s property, and then leaving, is still a hit-and-run. Of course, damage to a person is most often the result and also the main cause of panic for the driver who flees.

It goes without saying that reporting a hit-and-run accident and taking legal action against the at-fault driver is crucial. This is an important step towards ensuring they’re held accountable for what they did to you. Furthermore, if they go unreported, they may continue to pose a danger to others on our streets.

You should also remember that taking timely legal action can make you eligible for financial compensation, which can help you cover your damages. Speak with an experienced car accident attorney soon after your hit-and-run accident to discuss your legal options.

Why Do Drivers Flee?

Often, drivers involved in hit-and-run accidents flee the scene out of fear. However, in some cases, a driver leaves a crash scene because they have an outstanding warrant for another crime. Other times, the driver is under the influence and does not want to be charged with a DUI. There are also cases where drivers do not have a valid driver’s license or they are an illegal immigrant who fears deportation. In addition, some drivers flee accident scenes because they are uninsured and don’t have the financial means to cover any damages.

If you’re wondering why people hit and run, you’re not alone. It is indeed hard to make sense of it. It’s also unfair to victims. However, a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal waters and obtain the compensation you deserve.

While your lawyer may not have the exact answer to why people hit and run, they will certainly leave no stone unturned in gathering relevant evidence and identifying the liable party. They can also help you deal with insurance companies and their negotiation tactics.

If negotiations fail, your lawyer can represent you in court. They’ll fight aggressively to ensure you’re fairly compensated for your injuries, pain and suffering, and other losses, helping you pursue justice.

What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident?

One of the most common questions on the minds of victims is, what to do after a hit-and-run? We have a few helpful tips:

• Seek medical attention for yourself and those injured in the crash.
• Call 911. This will ensure there is a report of the accident, and it will get you the medical care you need.
• Do not try to chase the driver. This can put you and other drivers in more danger.
• Talk to any witnesses.
• Take note of the following:
• The vehicle’s make, model, and color
• The general direction it was heading
• The license plate number
• Make sure to gather your own evidence of the crash. This can include photos of the scene and the contact information of witnesses to the crime.
• Call a lawyer soon thereafter. Delaying this step could mean missing out on crucial evidence is lost, making it difficult for you to recall the exact details of the accident.

Once you hire an experienced personal injury lawyer, you can leave your legal worries to them. They’ll explain the legal process and answer all of your queries.

The sooner you hire a lawyer, the better chances you stand of being fairly compensated. They can begin investigating the case and collecting evidence right away. Based on this, they’ll determine the best course of action for you.

Discuss Your Case with a Proven Personal Injury Today

Hit-and-run accidents are a dangerous and serious problem. They can have devastating consequences for victims, who can be left injured, angry, and perplexed about their next steps. From seeking medical attention and calling the police to take pictures and hiring a lawyer – each of these steps can help strengthen your case.

If you were the victim of a hit-and-run accident, call Scartelli Olszewski, P.C. at (570) 339-9600 to schedule a free consultation. Alternatively, fill out our online form for more information.