Accidents between vehicles and pedestrians or cyclists occur more frequently than we would like to think. In many of these instances, the injured individuals decide to pursue compensation from the driver by filing a personal injury claim. However, what happens when the driver flees the scene, turning what could have been a somewhat minor event into a crime? A recent article took a look at why hit-and-runs remain common and what this means for those who are injured in a hit-and-run accident.
Factors That Make People Flee
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers who end up fleeing the scene are typically younger males. Many of them have previously been involved with other crashes or have been cited for moving violations, and they may lack a valid driver’s license. Additionally, alcohol seems to be a factor in whether the driver ends up running from the scene. Usually, the decision to leave the scene comes down to the individual’s fears about facing the consequences, especially if they think this incident could turn into a DUI situation that threatens their freedom.
Victims Left Without Answers
In situations where a pedestrian is struck by a car and injured, there is a protocol in place to make sure the injured party receives any necessary medical attention and that the incident is reported to law enforcement. From there, the victim may choose to file a personal injury claim against the driver in order to recover compensation that goes towards paying off the costly medical bills incurred by the injury. However, when the driver leaves the scene before any witnesses or the police are able to record the incident, it becomes extremely difficult to track down the driver and make an identification. As hit-and-run cases usually lack eyewitness accounts and the police have little physical evidence to go on (maybe some shards of glass or a bumper, at the most), many cases remain unsolved. As a result, victims are unable to successfully pursue a personal injury claim, and they must scramble to deal with the aftermath of the accident on their own.
If you have been injured in a car accident and you need assistance collecting the compensation you deserve, contact Hales & Associates, A Professional Law Corporation by calling (951) 489-3320 to schedule a free initial consultation.