Hit and Run Accident Attorney in Lakeland

Research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reveals that more than one hit and run accident occurs every minute, and an average of 682,000 have occurred yearly since 2006. Further, Florida is one of the top three states for fatalities, which primarily involve pedestrians and cyclists. If you’ve been seriously hurt in a collision where the negligent driver flees the scene, you need a knowledgeable and dedicated hit and run accident attorney in Lakeland.

At Kogan & DiSalvo, you can trust that we have the experience to fight for your right to recover compensation for your losses. Hit and runs provide unique challenges if the at-fault driver cannot be identified. However, our team has the resources to pursue all remedies for justice for our clients. Schedule a free consultation today. We are happy to assess your case and answer your questions.

What should I do after a hit-and-run accident?

It is important to remember that your health and safety always are your priority and to rely on the support of law enforcement and legal counsel in the aftermath of a hit and run accident in Polk County.

• Call the police. After a hit-and-run accident, call the police and ensure they file a report. This is required, especially when there are severe injuries and property damage. It is also your best chance at tracking down the other motorist. If the police are nearby, they might be able to find the driver.
• Note details about the other vehicle. After you’ve called the police and have moved to a place of safety, note down as much as you can remember about the car that hit you. The more you can tell the police, the better, including a description of any visible damage to their vehicle.
• Seek medical care. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential for your health and the viability of your claim as it creates crucial documentation of your injuries.
• Do not follow the other driver. It is dangerous to chase a hit-and-run driver. Leave this to the police.
• Call a lawyer. As noted above, an experienced attorney could help you pursue fair compensation for your damages regardless of whether the other driver is ever identified.

What are my legal options?

Florida is a no-fault state, meaning accident victims are often required to rely on their own insurance policy instead of filing a lawsuit against the other driver. This can be disappointing since pain and suffering are not covered, and only a percentage of lost wages and medical expenses are covered.  

In Florida, drivers are required to carry at least $10,000 in personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. These benefits are available following an accident regardless of who is at fault. In addition, if you have purchased additional uninsured motorist coverage, this could be another source of financial recovery.

If the driver who left the scene is ultimately identified, you can pursue a case against them. Further, stepping outside the no-fault system and filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver is possible if you’ve been seriously injured. A Lakeland car accident lawyer will provide valuable guidance during this time.

Why do drivers leave the scene of a crash?

Generally, motorists who leave the scene of an accident are afraid of being arrested. For others, it is the result of panic. Some of the reasons people flee the scene of a car crash also include the following:

• The driver has an outstanding arrest warrant
• The driver is impaired by alcohol or drugs
• The driver is undocumented
• Lack of liability insurance and fear of the financial and legal consequences.

A driver who leaves the scene of an accident could face serious consequences, e.g., they could be charged with a third-degree felony. If found guilty, penalties may include five years in prison and a $5,000 fine. 

Call Kogan & DiSalvo for a free consultation

If you were involved in a hut and run accident in Lakeland, now is the time to discuss your options with an attorney. When you choose Kogan & DiSalvo, you’ll have a world-class pool of resources working relentlessly on your behalf. Our accomplished personal injury lawyers have devoted their legal careers to helping injury victims return to a financially and emotionally stable situation with honesty, integrity, and individualized attention.

Schedule a free consultation today with our compassionate and dedicated team. Since we work on a contingency basis, there are no upfront legal fees.