Leaving the scene of an accident in Florida that causes personal injuries or property damage is illegal. Therefore, hit-and-run car accidents in Pace are taken very seriously. Not only can there be legal repercussions for the person who fled the scene, but there can also be compensation for the injured party. We urge you not to suffer alone or in silence.
At Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon, we know the effects of this type of wreck can be traumatic and cause months or years of pain and suffering. If you are struggling in the aftermath of this type of auto collision and want to hold the other party accountable for their actions, we can help you.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Car Accident?
Hit-and-run accidents occur when one person leaves the scene of an accident that they were involved in without reporting it. The crash can include hitting a parked vehicle, someone’s fence, or a pedestrian.
Regardless, Florida state laws are clear on hit-and-run collisions: it is always wrong, no matter how minor the damage to property or pedestrians appears.
Florida’s Stance Against Hit-and-Run Vehicle Accidents
Florida Statutes § 316.061 states that a vehicle must immediately stop at a crash scene. If someone violates this statute, they commit a misdemeanor of the second degree. Anyone who fails to stop can face fines, jail time, and other penalties. The penalty for each case varies based on the severity of the accident and injuries on the scene. It also depends on whether the driver who flees is charged with a criminal lawsuit, civil lawsuit, or both.
In criminal lawsuits, the state prosecutes the hit-and-run driver. This usually stems from that driver being charged with reckless driving, DUI, or simply leaving the scene of an accident.
Civil lawsuits can be brought about by the victim of a hit-and-run car wreck in Pace. They can help a victim or their family recover compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
According to Florida Statutes § 768.72, if a civil case is brought before a judge, the judge will sometimes determine that the hit-and-run driver must pay punitive damage “based on clear and convincing evidence.” This applies only if it is proven that the driver was guilty of intentional misconduct or gross negligence.
What to Do If You Are Injured in a Hit-and-Run Car Wreck
Depending on your situation, there are several things you can do immediately after being involved in a hit-and-run car crash in Pace. The first things to do include:
- Call the police or 911 and file a police report
- Remain at the scene until help arrives
- Seek medical attention
- Get witness information
- Contact your insurance company
- Seek legal counsel
Even if you are not seriously injured in the accident, seeking medical help and filing a police report must be a priority. It will help you establish your case against the other driver.
If you are not the victim but a loved one, you should still take the same steps if possible. This will allow you to seek compensation for the victim if they do not survive the incident. If filing a wrongful death claim, all potential beneficiaries should be identified in the complaint as stated by Florida Statutes § 768.21.
Seek Legal Help After a Hit-and-Run Car Accident in Pace
In 2023, the Florida Senate reduced the time limit for general negligence cases from four years to two years. This also impacts personal injury claims. Therefore, if you or someone you love was injured in a hit-and-run accident in Pace, the time to act is now, before the statute of limitations runs out.
We want you to know that our team of professionals is here if you are ready to discuss your case. Contact Emmanuel Sheppard & Condon to schedule an initial consultation today.
