A hit-and-run experience can be challenging to digest. Especially in the beginning, you may find that you are faced with a host of emotions that disturb your peace of mind.
The feeling that someone is unfair to you by hitting your vehicle and then irresponsibly disappearing can be hard to ignore. Almost always, these events put us on the defensive and cause us to project all of our anger onto someone else.
However, the law is there to find justice in complex situations where there seems to be no solution, with a thorough knowledge of the law, the deadlines, and the ways to resolve them.
Have you or someone dear to you experienced the distress of a hit-and-run incident in Miami, Florida? You deserve justice and financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and the emotional toll it has taken.
At The Ward Law Group, we specialize in advocating for individuals affected by such unfortunate events.
With a legacy dating back to our establishment more than 12 years ago, we have diligently represented countless clients in the Miami area, securing tens of millions of dollars in rightful compensation for victims of accidents throughout South Florida.
The aftermath of a hit-and-run in Miami can leave you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about your next steps. That’s where we step in. Our dedicated legal experts are here to guide you through the process and fight relentlessly on your behalf.
Don’t let the repercussions of someone else’s negligence weigh you down. Contact our Miami car accident law offices today for a complimentary consultation. During this time, we can explore your legal avenues and chart a course toward the justice you deserve.
How can a Miami Hit-and-Run Attorney Help?
Dealing with any car accident can be overwhelming, but the situation becomes infinitely more complex when the other driver flees the scene. However, you may still be entitled to compensation even in such dire circumstances.
To navigate this challenging terrain, you require the expertise of a seasoned car accident attorney in Miami.
When you turn to us following a hit & run collision, you can count on our comprehensive support, including:
- Collaborating with local law enforcement to track down the responsible driver
- Thoroughly investigating the incident to uncover all potential avenues for compensation.
- Determining if other parties besides the driver can be held accountable
- Engaging expert professionals and specialists as necessary to bolster your case
- Skillfully negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.
We are equipped with the skills and resources necessary to tackle even the most complex cases, and we stand ready to champion your cause. Interested in learning more about how we can assist you? Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.
The Prevalence of Hit & Run Accidents in Miami
According to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, a staggering 737,100 hit-and-run accidents occurred nationwide in a single year. Alarmingly, statistics indicate that approximately 2,049 individuals lost their lives in crashes involving hit & run drivers.
The scourge of hit-and-run incidents also plagues South Florida. According to data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, nearly 25% of all motor vehicle accidents in the region involve hit-and-runs. Between 2015 and 2020 alone, there were over 600,000 such crashes.
Additionally, various other types of car accidents commonly occur in Miami and across Florida, including but not limited to:
- Defective tire accidents
- Head-on collisions
- Highway accidents
- Interstate 95 (I-95) accidents
- Intersection collisions
- Lane change mishaps
- Left-turn accidents
- Multi-vehicle collisions
- Parking lot incidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Accidents at red and yellow lights
- Rollover incidents
- Self-driving vehicle accidents
- Single vehicle crashes
- SUV rollovers
- U-turn accidents
With our dedicated legal team by your side, you can confidently navigate the aftermath of any car accident and pursue the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.
Understanding Florida Laws Regarding Hit & Run Incidents
Following an accident, all drivers in Florida must halt at the scene, exchange insurance details, provide contact information, and offer aid to injured parties until law enforcement arrives.
In Florida, departing the scene of a car accident violates the law. A driver who flees may face severe criminal repercussions, including:
- Second-degree misdemeanor charges if the incident resulted in property damage
- Second or third-degree felony charges if injuries were sustained
- First-degree felony charges in cases where the hit-and-run proves fatal
Despite potential criminal charges, victims can seek damages in civil court.
Determining the Value of Your Miami Hit & Run Case
At The Ward Law Group, we aim to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.
The worth of your personal injury case hinges on various factors, including:
- The extent of your injuries
- Prognosis for recovery
- Medical expenses and related out-of-pocket costs
- Emotional impact stemming from the accident
- Available insurance coverage
Even in hit-and-run scenarios, insurance companies may attempt to diminish your settlement. Our legal team stands ready to advocate fiercely on your behalf.
Contact us today for a consultation, and let us guide you through the process of fighting for your rights.
What Kinds of Compensation Can Hit & Run Accident Victims in Miami Pursue?
Following a hit-and-run incident in Miami, you can seek compensation for economic and non-economic losses.
Some examples of the damages you may have incurred include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages due to inability to work
- Decreased capacity to earn income in the future
- Costs associated with rehabilitation
- Property damage to your vehicle
- Physical pain and mental anguish
- Emotional distress stemming from the traumatic event
- Reduction in overall quality of life
- Disfigurement or scarring resulting from the accident
- Emotional conditions such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD
- Damages for wrongful death if a loved one was fatally injured in the hit-and-run
In certain cases, Florida courts may also grant punitive damages, which penalize the defendant for their misconduct.
What Factors Contribute to Most Hit & Run Incidents in Miami?
Regrettably, Florida grapples with one of the nation's highest rates of fatal hit-and-run accidents. Numerous factors can precipitate a hit & run collision in Miami, with some of the primary causes encompassing:
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Excessive speeding
- Violations of traffic laws
- Inexperienced drivers
Moreover, various additional circumstances may prompt a driver to flee the scene, such as:
- Lack of proper car insurance coverage
- Absence of a valid driver’s license
- Vehicle theft
- Intoxication or impairment
- Attempting to evade law enforcement or a criminal history
- Active warrants for arrest
- Concerns regarding immigration status
- Transportation of illegal substances, firearms, or contraband
While financial constraints or fear of repercussions may motivate some at-fault drivers to flee, it is crucial to recognize that such actions are unlawful and unjustifiable.
Rest assured, our legal team is committed to diligently pursuing fair compensation on your behalf. Contact our Miami hit-and-run accident attorneys today for a complimentary case evaluation.
Establishing Negligence Following a Hit & Run Incident in Florida
Typically, car accident claims hinge on the concept of negligence. However, leaving the scene of an accident constitutes a criminal offense in Florida.
Consequently, the legal doctrine of "negligence per se" can streamline the process of proving negligence in the aftermath of a hit-and-run collision.
Under this doctrine, negligence is presumed if:
- The at-fault driver violated a relevant safety statute
- Said statute was enacted to prevent the type of harm sustained
- You suffered injuries or damages as a result
Should the responsible driver be apprehended and possess the means to provide compensation, the "negligence per se" principle can facilitate your pursuit of rightful restitution.
Understanding the Time Limit for Filing a Lawsuit After a Hit & Run Incident in Florida
Florida imposes a strict deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits stemming from car accidents, known as the statute of limitations. In car accident cases, this timeframe is limited to two years.
Historically, Florida's statute of limitations for personal injury claims was four years. However, legislative changes on March 24, 2023, reduced this period, necessitating prompt legal action for incidents occurring thereafter.
If your Miami hit-and-run occurred post-revision, you must initiate legal proceedings within this two-year window.
Similarly, wrongful death lawsuits arising from hit-and-run accidents are subject to the same two-year limitation.
Given the complexities inherent in hit-and-run investigations, it is advisable to initiate the case promptly to ensure thorough preparation and evaluation.
Do I Have a Claim for a Hit-and-Run Accident?
You may have grounds for a hit-and-run accident claim under two circumstances:
Legal Claims Arising from the Other Party’s Fault in the Accident
Generally, if you sustain injuries due to another party's negligence leading to the accident, you retain the right to file a claim.
Despite the other driver fleeing the scene, the fundamental principles of legal negligence still apply to the collision.
Your entitlement to pursue compensation for the incident's aftermath remains intact, irrespective of the perpetrator's decision to abscond.
Therefore, if you are the victim of an accident caused by another party, you have a viable claim.
In Florida, certain minimum injury thresholds may apply. Nevertheless, you may also have recourse to a first-party insurance claim alongside a third-party claim.
Our legal team can offer guidance in assessing your case to ascertain all available rights and avenues for redress
Legal Claims Stemming from the Hit and Run Incident
A legal claim may be predicated on the circumstances of the hit-and-run occurrence.
Departing the scene of an accident constitutes a criminal offense and exacerbates the gravity of the situation. Such conduct can deprive you of necessary medical attention, induce panic, and inflict emotional distress.
Consequently, a claim may be pursued not only in light of the accident itself but also in consideration of the hit-and-run event.
Contact a Miami Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer
Our team of hit-and-run accident lawyers is dedicated to meticulously assessing the full extent of your legal claim. Many individuals we counsel are surprised by the actual value of their case and the breadth of their entitlements under the law.
Contrary to common misconceptions, the scope of Florida hit-and-run accident laws is extensive. You are entitled to comprehensive compensation for the myriad ways in which the accident has impacted your life, both financially and emotionally.
While the laws staunchly safeguard accident victims, many remain unaware of their rights.
Contact The Ward Law Group for a free consultation if you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Miami and need top legal assistance from the best professionals in the field!
Remaining resilient and steadfast is essential in the face of adversity. At The Ward Law Group, we understand that navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming.
However, as Philippians 4:13 says, 'I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.'
This timeless wisdom reminds us that we can overcome even the most daunting challenges with determination and the proper support.
Our dedicated team is here to provide the legal guidance and support you need to emerge from this challenging time, which is more vital than ever. Together, let's embark on the journey towards justice and healing.