Hit & Run Auto Accidents

Hit & Run Auto Accidents

Being a victim of a hit and run auto accident can be quite frustrating due to the lack of concern of the driver who did not even bother to stop to rectify his or her mistake. More importantly, it’s uncertain how you would get compensated for the damages to your vehicle and the injuries you may have suffered. It’s a really unfortunate situation to be in but luckily there are ways to deal with it.

Types of hit and run accidents

There are primarily two types of hit and run accidents:

• The first one involves a situation where a car hits your car while it was parked and unattended and leaves, without sticking around to leave contact information. In a few cases, people do stick around and leave a note to the owner with their contact information through which damages can be collected. Most times though, the driver drives off without leaving any contact information.

• The second type of hit and run accident is when a vehicle hits you and speeds off without bothering to check up on you. You may be compelled to chase him/her down but do not attempt to follow as it could lead to another collision as the other driver panics and tries to escape.

What should you do to get compensation for a hit & run accident?

If the car hit you while you were inside the vehicle or were walking on the pavement, try to memorize and note the make, model and the license number of the vehicle. This information can be extremely vital in augmenting your claim against the fleeing driver. On the other hand, if your car was hit while it was parked unattended you may ask around for potential eyewitnesses. In both cases, CCTV cameras can also help you identify the car and its license number. Consulting an auto accident lawyer can help you find the car and its driver in a much more efficient way.

Hit & Run accidents allow punitive charges

Under state law, not stopping after an accident which resulted in personal injury or death of someone is considered a felony. The offender can face up to 15 years in prison and pay fines as high as $20,000. Therefore, it is best to stop and provide insurance information rather than fleeing away and becoming a felon.

Illinois Hit And Run Accident Statistics

Hit-and-run accidents represent a significant concern in Illinois, with thousands of incidents occurring annually. These events frequently result in injuries, fatalities, and legal repercussions for drivers who evade the scene of an accident. An understanding of the latest statistics is essential for raising awareness and promoting safer driving practices.

Illinois experiences a notable number of hit-and-run collisions each year. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), hit-and-run incidents contribute to broader roadway safety issues. These accidents typically involve pedestrians, cyclists, and other motorists, often leading to severe injuries and tragic fatalities.

Common Causes of Hit-and-Run Accidents

Several factors contribute to the occurrence of hit-and-run incidents in Illinois:

Distracted Driving – Operators who are not fully attentive may cause accidents and subsequently flee due to panic.

Driving Under the Influence – Impaired drivers frequently leave the scene to avoid potential legal consequences.

Uninsured or Unlicensed Drivers – Certain individuals may flee the scene due to a lack of valid documentation or insurance coverage.

Fear of Legal Penalties – Drivers involved in serious accidents may attempt to evade responsibility owing to the potential ramifications.

Collisions with Vulnerable Road Users – A significant number of hit-and-run accidents involve pedestrians and cyclists, who are at greater risk.

Consequences of Hit-and-Run Accidents

The consequences of hit-and-run accidents can be severe, entailing significant legal penalties such as fines, suspension of driving privileges, and imprisonment. Victims often incur considerable medical expenses and face challenges in securing compensation if the responsible driver remains unidentified. Illinois law requires that drivers involved in accidents remain at the scene and provide necessary assistance. Failure to comply with this legal obligation may result in felony charges, particularly when the accident leads to serious injury or death.

Prevention and Safety Measures

To mitigate the incidence of hit-and-run accidents, Illinois advocates for:

• Stricter enforcement of traffic regulations to hold offenders accountable.
• Public awareness initiatives aimed at educating drivers regarding their legal responsibilities.
• Enhanced surveillance and reporting systems to effectively monitor and address hit-and-run incidents.

Contact Our Lake County Personal Injury Lawyers

If you were a victim of a hit & run auto accident and wish to schedule a free consultation, contact the offices of Robert Edens at (847) 395-2200 to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer.