Deadly hit-and-run accidents

Hit-and-run accidents could have fatal consequences, as many news reports reveal. Even those who only suffer damage to their vehicles deal with significant losses. The situation worsens when a negligent driver speeds off, hoping to avoid responsibility for their actions. Things might not work out as a Washington hit-and-run driver expects. An eyewitness with a smartphone could capture the fleeing vehicle’s license plate. Positive identification may precede civil lawsuits and criminal charges.

Hit-and-run driver statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration logs many records of motor vehicle accidents, and reports involving hit-and-run driving incidents may worry commuters. As an example, 2015 saw 737,100 crashes caused by hit-and-run drivers, and things turned grim in 2016. During that year, 2,049 people lost their lives in hit-and-run accidents.

A driver who hits a pedestrian might worry about litigation or criminal charges. Fleeing the accident scene could make things worse. Remaining at the scene could lead to civil litigation covered by an auto insurance policy. Leaving the scene might result in felony charges. Those assuming they will escape their troubles may forget about the prevalence of dashcams and other cameras. Recorded images could do more than identify a hit-and-run driver. The images may provide detailed evidence during court proceedings.

Legal actions after hit-and-run incidents

A hit-and-run accident might leave the victim suffering from injuries requiring extensive medical care. The expenses associated with treatment may add to other losses related to property damage or missing work. A civil lawsuit could open doors to recovering losses suffered due to the hit-and-run driver’s negligence. Perhaps the driver was under the influence or went through a stop sign.

Ultimately, if negligence contributed to the crash, the driver causing the accident might have to pay. With wrongful death lawsuits, the damages may be significant.