Hit & Run Accident Lawyer in South Florida

Victims of hit-and-run accidents may feel like they have been victimized twice; once when they are injured in an accident, the second time when the other driver leaves the scene of the accident. Even in a hit-and-run accident, victims can pursue compensation for their injuries. The law office of Zimmerman & Frachtman, P.A. can help victims recover financial assistance for medical bills, lost wages and other financial losses due to their injuries.

Common Causes of Hit & Run Accidents

An accident is labeled a hit-and-run when the driver that causes the accident leaves the scene without stopping. In Florida, it is mandatory that any driver involved in an accident stop immediately at the scene, offer help to anyone who is injured, and exchange information with the other parties in the accident. Information can include name, address, and their insurance carrier. Hit-and-run victims may be drivers or passengers in other vehicles, pedestrians, or bicyclists.

Some common reasons for hit-and-run accidents include:

• Fear of Consequences: One of the most common reasons for hit-and-run accidents is the fear of facing legal consequences. Drivers who are uninsured, under the influence of drugs or alcohol, driving without a valid license, or engaged in criminal activities may flee the scene to avoid being caught and facing penalties.
• Lack of Insurance: Some drivers may not have insurance coverage, or their insurance may have lapsed. In these cases, they may flee the scene to avoid being held financially responsible for the damages caused in the accident.
• Panic and Shock: Immediately after an accident, some drivers may be overwhelmed by panic, shock, or adrenaline. They may not think rationally and may flee the scene out of fear or confusion.
• Impaired Judgment: Impaired drivers, such as those under the influence of alcohol or drugs, may not make sound decisions and may choose to flee the scene to avoid being apprehended for DUI or DWI.
• Outstanding Warrants: Drivers with outstanding arrest warrants may leave the scene to avoid being identified and arrested by law enforcement officers.
• No Valid Identification: In some cases, drivers involved in hit-and-run accidents may not have valid identification on them. They may be concerned about being identified and facing legal consequences for other issues unrelated to the accident.
• Recklessness: Some drivers engage in reckless or aggressive behavior on the road. When they cause an accident, they may leave the scene to avoid responsibility for their actions.
• Unattended Property: Hit-and-run accidents can also occur when a driver damages an unattended vehicle or property, such as a parked car or a mailbox. In these cases, the driver may leave to avoid dealing with the owner of the damaged property.
• Lack of Empathy: Unfortunately, some individuals may lack empathy or a sense of responsibility and choose to flee the scene rather than helping the injured party or reporting the accident.
• Hit-and-run with Pedestrians or Cyclists: Hit-and-run accidents involving pedestrians or cyclists may occur because the driver may not immediately realize the extent of the injuries or may feel less connected to the victim, making it easier to flee.

Common Injuries in Hit & Run Accidents

Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can result from the head striking an object or from the brain being shaken inside the skull.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries could lead to partial or full paralysis, significantly altering a victim’s quality of life.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: The force of a collision often causes fractures, which may demand surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash, torn ligaments, and muscle strains are frequent in car accidents, particularly when vehicles collide at high speeds.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs or internal bleeding can be life-threatening and may not be instantly noticeable.
• Emotional Trauma: Beyond physical harm, hit-and-run accidents can leave victims with lasting psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

Liability In A Hit & Run Accident

Once located, a hit-and-run driver may be held liable for injuries caused by that vehicular accident. If they were driving erratically, speeding, or driving illegally, they may be found at fault and be liable for any damages or injuries. This can include paying for medical bills, lost wages and other financial damages. In some cases, the driver cannot be located. However, victims can still receive compensation for their injuries under their own insurance policy.

Here are several ways a victim can recover compensation from a hit-and-run accident in Florida:

• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: In Florida, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is mandatory, and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage is also available. If you have UM/UIM coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, it can help compensate you for injuries and damages resulting from a hit and run accident. This coverage is meant to step in when the at-fault driver is uninsured or cannot be identified (as is often the case in hit and run accidents).
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Florida is a no-fault state, which means that your own PIP insurance should cover a portion of your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault. PIP can be used as a source of compensation for your immediate expenses, even in a hit and run accident.
• Identifying the At-Fault Driver: If possible, try to gather any available information about the at-fault driver, such as vehicle details, the driver’s appearance, and any witness statements. Law enforcement may be able to use this information to locate the responsible party.
• Hit and Run Reward Programs: Some Florida cities and counties offer reward programs that encourage citizens to report hit and run incidents and provide information leading to the identification and apprehension of the responsible driver. These programs may offer monetary rewards for information.
• Civil Lawsuit: If the hit and run driver is eventually identified, you may have the option to file a civil lawsuit against them to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. Your attorney can help you with this process.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Hit & Run Accident Claim?

Damages may include:

Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses: This includes emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and any future medical costs related to the accident.
• Lost Wages: If the injury has caused you to miss work, you could be entitled to recover lost income. In cases of permanent disability, compensation for diminished earning capacity may also be sought.
• Property Damage: Reimbursement for restorations or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal property that had been damaged in the accident.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and distress endured as a result of the accident.
• Emotional Distress: Recovery for psychological impacts, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injuries stop you from participating in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation.

Punitive Damages

In instances where the hit-and-run driver is identified and their actions are deemed especially reckless or malicious, punitive damages could be granted to penalize.

Contact Our South Florida Hit & Run Accident Attorney Today

The attorneys at Zimmerman & Frachtman, P.A. can help victims of hit-and-run accidents receive the compensation they deserve. They have the experience to gain the maximum compensation for any injuries a victim has suffered in a hit-and-run accident.