Hit and Run Crashes in Florida: What Victims Should Do and What Drivers Risk

Unfortunately, hit- and-run crashes are common on Florida roadways. For injury victims, understanding how to protect their health and legal rights after a crash is essential. A driver who causes a hit-and-run accident should think twice before leaving the scene of a crash. 

What Steps Should Hit and Run Victims Take After a Crash?

An injured driver should attempt to move their vehicle to a safe location after being involved in a crash. Calling 9-1-1 in order to alert the authorities to the accident is another prudent step to take. Law enforcement may create an accident report, which can assist an injured driver in establishing what occurred in the lead-up to the crash. 

If an injured driver is able to do so, an examination of the other vehicles involved in the crash should occur. This includes photographing each vehicle to assess damage, as well as license plate numbers for those vehicles. These are all details that may be needed or at least helpful in determining fault and holding the at-fault driver accountable for their actions. 

Prior to leaving the accident scene, an injured driver should determine if there were any witnesses to the accident. Depending upon the circumstances of the crash, it may be necessary to call upon a witness to testify or make a statement about what occurred based on their vantage point. 

Seeking medical care for injuries suffered in the car accident is the final step to take immediately after a car crash. Even if the individual does not “feel” hurt, it is a good idea to see a doctor. Some injuries suffered by car crash victims will not show themselves for hours or even a day after the accident is over. 

What Risks Are Associated With Leaving the Scene of a Florida Car Crash?

There are serious consequences for a driver who leaves the scene of a car crash before exchanging insurance information with the other drivers or speaking to law enforcement. 

The severity of the accident determines the legal penalties associated with leaving the scene prematurely. For example, in an accident where only property damage was incurred, a second-degree misdemeanor would be assessed. This carries with it a potential jail sentence of up to sixty days.

Those penalties increase when injuries are sustained by other parties. Up to five years in prison, attached to a second or third-degree felony if found guilty in a Florida hit-and-run. If a driver leaves the scene after a car crash in which a driver or passenger dies, then up to thirty years in prison can result. 

Fines totaling $500 (at minimum) or up to $10,000 (for a fatal accident) may also be incurred by the fleeing driver. Automatic driver’s license revocation occurs for the at-fault driver if convicted of a hit-and-run crime.

Contact Difilippo & Pica, PLLC, for a Free Case Review

Protect your rights as an injury victim by contacting Difilippo & Pica, PLLC today for a free case review. We fight for our clients every step of the way as Florida hit-and-run accident attorneys.