A vehicle accident is a shocking experience that elicits all sorts of reactions from us. A hit and run accident may involve injury or death to another driver or pedestrian. However, they typically involve hitting another car and driving off. 20% of pedestrian deaths in the United States within the past decade were caused by hit and runs according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. With such deep ramifications, it is clear to see why you may need a good lawyer like Robert Littlefield Buford III to help you plead your case.
What Is a Hit and Run?
A hit and run is an accident involving a vehicle hitting a pedestrian, animal or an inanimate object where the driver does not stop to identify themselves or to offer help to an animal or someone who might need it. On the other hand, not all states consider hitting an animal as part of a hit and run.
In a hit and run is does not matter if you were at fault for the accident or not. The offense is leaving the scene after the accident. You may leave the scene for a while either to get help from someone in the vicinity or to find a strong signal to call for help.
Most states in the US include accidents on highways, private roads, and even parking lots as locations where a hit and run can happen. If you hit a car in a private establishment you should leave your contact information on the other car’s windshield.
Criminal Penalties for a Hit and Run
Hit and run criminal ramifications in the United States vary from state to state. However, most states consider hit and run penalties as felonies or misdemeanors.
Felony hit and run involve leaving the scene of an accident where there has been an injury to another person regardless of whether they were in a vehicle or a pedestrian. Penalties for felony hit and runs can range from heavy fines to 15 years in jail depending on the circumstances.
Administrative Penalties for a Hit and Run
Penalties to your driver’s license are assured if you commit a hit and run offense. Your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will be responsible for imposing the penalties.
It does not matter whether the hit and run offense is a felony or a misdemeanor, you should expect a six month period or longer revocation of your driving license if you are convicted of a hit and run. Administrative penalties will most likely be imposed in addition to criminal penalties.
Civil Penalties for a Hit and Run
What to expect in court for a car accident particularly a hit and run is crucial. If the accident was your fault you might find yourself on the wrong end of a debilitating lawsuit. The monetary compensation to be paid will be increased if you not only caused the accident but also fled the scene. You will be required to pay for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Therefore, if you have recently been involved in a hit and run accident, it would be prudent for you to call at attorney. If you live in Austin, Texas call Robert Buford for the best legal assistance in the state.
