A hit-and-run accident is complicated, because hit-and-run crashes can result in a driver fleeing and not ever being found. If the driver isn’t found, the person who suffered an injury may have to pursue compensation through their own insurance plans, which becomes frustrating. Fortunately, most of the time, hit-and-run drivers are found by police not long after an incident. In those cases, drivers are charged for fleeing the scene and can be held liable for the accident.
The truth is that even if the person who fled the scene was the victim, he or she may be considered to be at fault now. Leaving the scene without stopping and contacting the authorities is against the law in the United States, further complicating things for the person who left the scene prematurely.
There are some times when leaving the scene isn’t a bad idea. For example, if the crash occurs in an area with no cellphone reception or nearby homes, the driver might leave the scene to seek help. If the area where the crash occurred is dangerous, the driver and others may choose to wait for help in another nearby location. It’s most important to stay close to the scene of the accident, but it is okay to wait where it is safe.
It’s always a good idea to stay at the scene, because you get a chance to talk to witnesses and get information for your claim. If you or someone you know is injured and leaves the scene, it’s less likely that you’ll be able to file a claim against another driver, even if he or she was at fault.
Source: 4AutoInsuranceQuote, “Hit and Run Accidents and Insurance,” accessed April 14, 2017
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