In Redan, it is illegal to leave the scene of a car accident, especially if you’re at fault. It is only acceptable in cases when you’re only leaving to seek immediate medical attention. If you leave the scene of an auto accident while another person is injured, you could be charged with a felony. However, despite the legal implications, there are still many hit-and-run accidents in Redan.
Hit-and-run accidents are a concern for many car drivers out there. That’s why it is essential to know your rights to protect yourself. In addition, learning your rights will help you understand how to reduce your losses if you’re a victim. In this article, the Redan car accident lawyers at The Weinstein Firm will explain all you need to know and the steps to take as a hit-and-run accident victim in Redan.
What Are the Consequences for a Hit-and-Run in Redan?
There are penalties to minimize the occurrence of drivers leaving an accident scene before the police arrive. For most hit-and-run cases, whether a felony or a misdemeanor, the penalty is usually a fine or imprisonment. The fine ranges from $1000-$10,000. Imprisonment can sometimes be up to 5-20 years. Sometimes, the driver’s license is revoked so that they won’t be a threat to other drivers in the future.
Crucial Steps to Follow If You Are a Victim of a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you or someone you love is a victim of a hit-and-run accident, below are four steps you can take to get justice.
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Gather All the Information You Can
Hit-and-run drivers will typically run from the accident scene. If your car is stuck or you’re too injured to follow, ensure you take mental note of everything you can identify. If you can, jot down everything you can, like the make and model of the fleeing car.
You should also note the car’s color, license plate, and every other part you can identify. You should also try to take note of the direction the driver went in. All these can help the police find the perpetrator and increase your chances of getting compensation.
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Call the Police to the Accident Scene
Traffic enforcement must always be aware of any accident that occurs, but it is imperative after a hit-and-run. The police have all the resources necessary to track down the person responsible and help you get justice. This is especially important if it damages your car or you sustain injuries.
Ensure you report all the information you have within the first 24 hours of the hit-and-run accident. If you don’t report, the insurer might consider you at fault. Therefore, you should ensure you report to all the proper authorities as soon as possible to avoid being portrayed as responsible for damages.
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Review Your Medical Condition
You should seek medical care after the accident. Review your medical condition and note every injury sustained from the accident. There are occasions where the injuries take weeks, days, or even several weeks to show up. Consult with a primary care provider and inform them about symptoms as they occur.
A typical car accident injury that doesn’t show up immediately after the accident is whiplash. Other injuries you need to look out for include internal bleeding, herniated discs, chest injuries, and even psychological injuries.
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Look Out for Witnesses
Depending on when the hit-and-run accident occurred, you might be able to find witnesses. Firsthand accounts of the accident are valuable assets to police officers and car accident lawyers when determining fault. The right eyewitness will back up your story and might even remember some details that you don’t. Sometimes, a jarring event will make your memory fuzzy because you’re directly involved. However, third parties will fully process everything, and their testimonies could help you get compensation for damages.
Contact a Qualified Redan Car Accident Lawyer for Assistance
You can solve most hit-and-run accidents if you have the correct information. However, there are times when it’s confusing, and you don’t have enough information to get the compensation you deserve. In such dire situations, it is vital to seek the help of a qualified car accident lawyer. The Weinstein Firm has all the right resources to give you the best chance at excellent results.
Our expert Redan car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you gain maximum compensation for your damages. We will thoroughly analyze the case to determine what you deserve and how you can get it. Reach out to our qualified lawyers today to discover your options. We offer free case reviews.