Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in Florida: Who’s Responsible?
Posted By Darrigo & Diaz
Last year, Florida recorded 104,273 hit-and-run accidents and 271 fatalities. Of the total hit-and-run fatalities in 2023, 159 were pedestrians and 47 were bicyclists. Hit-and-run accidents happen every day in Florida and can be devastating.
As Tampa injury attorneys, we get calls all the time about people who are involved in hit-and-run accidents and don’t know what to do. The biggest question we get asked is: “Who is responsible for paying for damages after a hit-and-run accident in Florida?”
In this blog, we explain liability in hit-and-run accidents in Florida and what to do if you are ever placed in this unfortunate situation.
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Defining hit-and-run accidents in Florida
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision with another vehicle, pedestrian, or property flees the scene without stopping to provide their contact information or render assistance if necessary. In Florida, leaving the scene of an accident, especially one involving injuries or property damage, is considered a serious offense with legal consequences.
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Legal consequences of hit-and-run accidents in Florida
In Florida, drivers involved in accidents are legally obligated to stop at the scene, exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved, and provide reasonable assistance to anyone injured, including calling for medical help if necessary. Failure to fulfill these duties can result in criminal charges, including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment, depending on the severity of the accident and injuries.
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Who is responsible for damages in hit-and-run accidents in Florida?
1. The fleeing driver: Naturally, the primary responsibility for a hit-and-run accident lies with the driver who flees the scene. This driver may face criminal charges and civil liability for the damages and injuries caused by their actions. If apprehended, they can be held accountable for their negligence or recklessness.
2. Victims and Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Florida may face challenges in identifying and holding the fleeing driver accountable. However, they can seek compensation through their own insurance policies. Uninsured motorist coverage, a type of insurance designed to protect against damages caused by uninsured or hit-and-run drivers, can provide financial assistance to cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other losses.
3. Vehicle owners: In some cases, the owner of the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run accident may also be held liable, especially if they knowingly permitted an incompetent or unlicensed driver to operate their vehicle. However, Florida’s laws generally shield vehicle owners from strict liability for the actions of others who borrow their vehicles.
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Legal recourse for hit-and-run accident victims
If you are a victim of hit-and-run accident in Florida, you need to take immediate action to protect your rights and pursue compensation. These steps may include:
– Notifying law enforcement and filing a police report as soon as possible.
– Seeking medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident.
– Contacting your insurance company to report the incident and initiate the claims process.
– Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney who can navigate the legal complexities of hit-and-run accidents and advocate for their rights.
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Involved in a hit-and-run accident in Florida?
Call the Florida Accident Attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz for a free consultation at (813) 774-3341
If you’re involved and/or injured in a hit-and-run accident in Florida, the experienced injury attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz are here to help. For over 25 years, we have helped hit-and-run accident victims get the support, legal guidance and compensation they deserve.
Contact us immediately through our secured contact form. Or call our office at (813) 774-3341 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and connect with an experienced and knowledgeable accident lawyer.
