Drivers are responsible not only for their cars but also for the pedestrians outside. As responsible drivers, they should stop and check for injuries and damage when they get into a crash. But what happens when the driver who hit you flees the scene?
Drivers have the responsibility to check on the situation
According to the most recent report of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 2,800 pedestrian fatalities in crashes involved hit-and-run drivers in 2021. This data is 11% higher compared to the previous year.
Drivers have responsibilities at the onset of a car crash, no matter how minor they think the accident is. The driver should:
- Immediately stop the vehicle at or close to the scene without obstructing the flow of traffic.
- Attend to the needs of the victims, such as calling an ambulance or bringing the injured person to the nearest hospital.
- Report the incident to the police officer at the scene or the nearest police station.
- Provide their information, such as their name, address, driver’s license and registration certificate, to the victim, witness or police officer.
If the accident resulted in injuries, death or property damage, the driver who leaves the scene could be penalized with fines, jail time, license suspension and criminal charges.
Victims can sue hit-and-run drivers
Getting into a car accident is overwhelming. It can also get even more traumatic when it is a hit-and-run case. In this situation, you would want to track down the fleeing driver. However, your priority should always be yourself. Get the medical treatment you need and leave the investigation to the police. Once the police find the at-fault driver, you can sue them and get compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
