When a driver leaves the scene of an auto collision they caused or were involved in, it is a serious offense. Florida police officers take a tough stance on hit and run accidents, as does the legal system. In 2014, the penalties for hit and run offenses changed. After a drunk driver fatally struck a cyclist, the Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act was signed into Florida law in a statute named in memory of the fatally wounded victim.
Cyclists are considered by law to be “vulnerable road users” as they are not granted the same physical protection as motor vehicle occupants in a collision. While everyone shares a legal duty to be responsible and follow the rules of the road, studies reveal that motorists and dangerous street design are leading factors that present the most risk to cyclists in Florida.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one as a cyclist in a hit and run accident, there are several avenues from which to seek compensation for your injuries and other losses relating to the accident.
To discover the most suitable course of action for your circumstances, speak with a member of our team from the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine at 1-800-747-3733 in a free case review. A Miami bicycle hit and run accident lawyer is eager to take on your case.
Almost 25 Percent of Florida Vehicle Accidents Involve a Hit and Run Driver
When a motorist drives away from an accident scene without stopping to give assistance to injured parties or provide contact, license, and insurance information to the police and other people involved in the accident, it is considered a hit and run.
Alarming statistics from the Florida Department of Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reveal almost 25 percent of all vehicle accidents statewide involve a driver who illegally flees the scene of an accident involving another road user or pedestrian.
There are many reasons a motorist may decide to flee from an accident, which can include:
- Having no insurance.
- They were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Previous motoring-related convictions.
- Fear of repercussions.
- The driver claims they have no knowledge of the accident, especially large vehicles or trucks who hit a cyclist.
While you may think you have no avenue from which to seek recompense if a driver leaves the accident scene, this is often not the case. A Miami personal injury lawyer can help you to understand your options for pursuing compensation for your injuries and help you navigate the legal process.
Possible Recoverable Damages
Depending on the circumstances of the accident and nature of your injuries, you could be entitled to damages in lieu of:
- Current and ongoing medical care
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Lost wages and any reduced future earning capacity
- Emotional distress, pain, and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death
- Property damage
Options from which to seek recovery will largely depend on several factors, such as if the police can track the absconded driver and the insurance coverage they have; alternatively, you could look to your own insurance coverage. The process has many variables and may seem overwhelming, especially if you are recovering from injuries at the same time.
It can be an excellent first step to seek some clarity from a law firm with experience in such cases. Many offer a free initial consultation at no obligation where you can discuss your situation and find out more about what you can do to begin the claims process.
What to Do if You Are Struck by a Motorist Who Flees from the Accident Scene
It is important to remember all is not lost if a hit and run driver injures you. There are ways to prove the accident was not your fault and recover compensation even if the other driver left the scene. If you are able, and it is safe to do so, there are steps you can take to improve your chances of a positive outcome for your circumstances.
- Take pictures of the scene, your injuries, and of the fleeing vehicle if possible.
- Contact the police and call for medical assistance.
- Enlist the help of any witnesses who saw the accident, ask if they managed to see the license plate or any other information that could help identify the driver.
- Take photographs of any damage to your bike or other property.
We work closely with the police investigating the accident who can take further steps to identify the absconding driver, such as checking the recordings from CCTV footage in the vicinity.
The responsive and committed team at the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine are ready to assist you at this difficult time. We can help you understand how the police investigation can influence the options you have available to you for financial recovery. Call for a free case evaluation today at 1-800-747-3733.
Build a Strong Case with Help from a Miami Bicycle Hit and Run Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one were injured in a hit and run accident, we believe you should be compensated for your injuries and other expenses relating to the accident. We help our clients by providing the following services:
- Working with the police to help identify the driver who caused your injuries
- Helping you gather evidence to support your claim
- Helping you understand the sources available from which to seek compensation
- Proving negligence and liability
- Estimating the value of your claim
- Negotiating with insurers on your behalf for a fair settlement
- Representing you in court, where necessary
Seeking the compensation you deserve can begin with a simple phone call with our friendly team. We offer our services on a contingency basis, meaning there are no upfront costs to pay, and we only require payment if we win. Call for a free case review with the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine at 1-800-747-3733 today.
We Can Help.
