Being in a car accident is nerve-racking enough, but there is an added layer of stress when the other driver flees the scene. Now, you may be unsure if you will ever be able to recover compensation for your anticipated medical bills, lost income, and vehicle repairs. If this is your current predicament, please follow along to find out your best course of action if a driver flees the scene after hitting your vehicle and how a proficient Miami car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Gonzalo Funes, PA, can help keep you calm during this highly emotional time.
What happens if a driver flees the scene after hitting my vehicle?
Even though you may be preoccupied with the fact that the other driver has fled the scene of your car accident, you must focus on your physical safety and well-being first. That is, you should pull your vehicle over to the side away from traffic and then call 911. In the meantime, if it is safe for you to do so, you should step out of your vehicle to photograph the damage to your vehicle, the surrounding area, any debris left behind, and your visible injuries.
When law enforcement arrives, you may inform them of any identifying information you were able to memorize about the other driver. You may be surprised at how small pieces of information, like the other vehicle’s make, model, color, and partial license plate number, can make a difference in their investigation. If you were not able to catch this amidst all the chaos of your crash, an officer may speak with eyewitnesses who do remember.
The bottom line here is that you must not flee the accident either, whether to chase down the other vehicle or because you believe there is no point in sticking around anymore. Florida law requires that you immediately report your accident to the police if it entails personal injury or property damage. So, the last thing you want to do is face additional consequences like fines, a driver’s license suspension, etc.
Can I still recover compensation if an at-fault driver is never found?
Even if the other involved driver in your car accident cannot be identified, you can always fall back on your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. As a licensed Florida driver, you are required to carry this coverage. With this, you may be able to cover your initial medical expenses and lost wages.
Hopefully, you also opted for uninsured motorist (UM) coverage so that you may be compensated for damages that exceed your PIP limits. This coverage is designed to protect you when the at-fault driver has no insurance, or, in your case, cannot be found. The parameters of this policy type ranges greatly between insurance companies, so it is best to have your lawyer interpret it and advocate for your entitled benefits on your behalf.
A talented Miami auto accident lawyer from the Law Offices of Gonzalo Funes, PA, will employ any legal tactic necessary to get you the financial compensation you need to recover after your hit-and-run accident. We want you to feel at peace knowing that we are willing and able to assist you, no matter how complex your situation is. So please contact us today.
