A hit and run accident can be dangerous and even deadly. In a hit and run crash the responsible driver leaves the scene of the accident. When the at-fault party leaves the scene of an accident it is usually because they want to escape criminal charges or avoid paying compensation in a civil claim. These cases can become complicated and stressful for the victims. It is important to remember in a complex hit and run accident case, a hit and run accident lawyer in Jacksonville can help get the justice for the victims that they deserve.
At Riddle & Brantley we offer a free, no obligation consultation with an experienced Jacksonville personal injury attorney. We will evaluate the circumstances of your accident and let you know if we can help. You and your loved ones deserve justice, and you may be entitled to compensation.
A hit and run accident is a crime. The at-fault driver leaves the scene of the accident. North Carolina law requires all drivers to stay at the scene of an accident until police arrive.
If you are involved in an auto accident always:
- Stop your vehicle immediately.
- Call the police (911) as soon as it is safe and talk with the responding officer. Give them any detailed information you can remember.
- Remain with your vehicle (unless you need medical attention, or you may be in danger of further injury) until the proper authorities have investigated the accident and allow you to leave.
- Seek medical attention if needed. Remember that all injuries may not be apparent right away. Sometimes injuries show up days or weeks later. Always follow first responders’ suggestions and go to the hospital if necessary. Your medical records are important to your accident case.
- Take photos of the accident scene if you are able. Be sure to include skid marks, debris, vehicle damage, road signage and any injuries.
- Provide your contact information to everyone involved in the accident.
- Talk to any potential witnesses and find out what they saw. Get their contact information and make sure to give this information to your Jacksonville hit and run lawyer.
- Call your insurance carrier to report the claim but do not give a recorded statement to the adjuster before speaking with an experienced Jacksonville hit and run lawyer.
- Consult with a Jacksonville accident lawyer right away to preserve your legal rights. Hit and run cases can be complicated so an experienced attorney can help you navigate through the process.
Injuries Resulting from Hit and Run Accidents
Hit and run accidents can cause all kinds of injuries and even life-threatening injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Back injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Scrapes, cuts, contusions and bruises
- Loss of limbs (amputation)
- Paralysis and semi-paralysis
- Burns
- Road rash
- Internal bleeding
- Organ damage
Always seek medical attention immediately after an accident and remember sometimes injuries show up days or weeks later.
Damages in Hit and Run Accidents
An experienced Jacksonville hit and run accident lawyer will be able to calculate your damages. In addition to compensation for any injuries and damages after an accident you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, loss of future income and pain and suffering. In some cases, a judge or jury may award punitive damages to “punish” the hit and run driver for gross negligence.
Penalties for Hit and Run Accidents
Fleeing the scene of an accident is illegal in North Carolina and the entire United States. Depending on the severity of the injuries involved, in North Carolina a hit and run can be either a misdemeanor or a felony. Penalties in North Carolina may include:
- Class 1 misdemeanor hit and run – This usually involves minor property damage and/or minor personal physical injury. This Class 1 misdemeanor carries a potential penalty of up to 120 days in jail and a fine which is determined by the judge.
- Class H felony hit and run – This felony involves an accident resulting in serious bodily injury or death and can be punished by up to 25 months in prison, fines and the suspension of the driver’s license.
- Class F felony hit and run – A Class F felony involves an accident-causing serious bodily injury (including risk of death, permanent disfigurement or pain, or an extended hospital stay). Penalties for this felony include up to 41 months of jail time, significant fines, and driver’s license suspension.
Hit and run victims are entitled to recover compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company if the driver is identified, or the victims own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. If the at-fault driver is identified and charged with a crime, the criminal trial can help prove liability. This will further strengthen your own claim for compensation.
Talk with a Hit and Run Accident Attorney in Jacksonville, NC
Hit and run accidents can be complicated. You may need an experienced Jacksonville hit and run attorney to help navigate you through the process. The experienced attorneys at Riddle & Brantley are ready to help. Our attorneys have over 220+ years combined experience in personal injury accidents.
There is no obligation, and we don’t get paid unless we recover compensation for you. Our reputation speaks for itself. Call us today.
Justice Counts for you and your loved ones.