By PAGE Editor

Hit-and-runs are among the worst types of accidents one can ever be involved in. The victim will have to deal with a range of difficulties, from financial challenges to physical injuries. Then there’s the emotional conditions that arise due to hit-and-runs, which is a completely different battle.

In such situations, victims should consider reaching out to legal professionals. An experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer knows how to handle the complications involved in such cases. They will work hard to ensure victims get fair compensation for the losses they sustained.

Rosenberg & Gluck LLP is home to some of the best hit-and-run lawyers. The firm, established in 1996 by Ted Rosenberg and Michael Gluck, has built a name for itself in dealing with major types of personal injury cases, not just hit-and-runs. Accident victims who have approached Rosenberg & Gluck LLP for help have won millions in compensation.

The following article takes a deeper look into hit-and-accidents. 

Why Drivers Flee After an Accident

Drivers flee the accident scene for various reasons. They are listed below.

• A driver may panic and flee the scene due to pressure.

• The driver was operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• They have a warrant of arrest.

• The vehicle is a stolen one.

• Their driving license was revoked.

• The driver is underage.

Most of these incidents automatically attract strict punishment. Moreover, running away after the accident can prove a person's negligence and make a case easier for the victim.

Punishment for Hit-and-Run Drivers

The punishment for hit-and-runs varies from state to state. Some states classify hit-and-runs as a felony, while some may consider it a misdemeanor.

The sections below give an overview of the penalties that may be awarded to a hit-and-run driver.

Jail Term Sentencing

Sentences are awarded based on whether the hit-and-run is categorized as a misdemeanor or a felony. This, again, varies from state to state.

For states that consider hit-and-runs as a misdemeanor, the jail term can be anywhere between 6 months and a year. 

If the hit-and-run driver is in a state where the crime is considered a felony, the driver may spend a minimum of 1 year in jail or prison. This may increase depending on the circumstances of the case.

Fines 

Cash fines are the most common punishment for hit-and-run drivers. It includes compensation to injury victims, property/asset owners, and court fines. An offender risks jail term if they cannot provide the set court fines. Normally, the law can release them on bonds. The fines can be anywhere between $5,000 and $20,000. Repeat offenders attract heavier fines.

License Cancellation

You risk getting your license suspended or revoked in worst-case scenarios. Getting a license suspension can include a point deduction, a factor that can lead to future cancellation.

How Victims Can Punish Hit-and-Run Drivers

Being involved in an accident is scary. But just because the driver has fled doesn’t mean you’re out of luck. Here are some steps you can take to punish the at-fault party.

File a Personal Injury Case

This is a pretty obvious step. If you’re injured in a hit-and-run accident, consider seeking the services of a lawyer. You will need the assistance of a lawyer, as hit-and-runs are legally complicated.

The lawyer will help in identifying the at-fault party and bring them to justice. They will also help you prepare a fair settlement amount that includes all the losses and damages you have sustained, including non-economic losses like pain and suffering.

Seek Punitive Damages

Seeking punitive damages is one way of punishing the at-fault party. These damages are awarded to punish the defendant for committing acts of negligence that are considered grossly negligent. This means that the driver knew the risks of their actions but still decided to proceed with it.

It is important to note that punitive damages are only awarded in court. If you accept an out-of-court settlement, you cannot seek punitive damages.

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