The Legal Process for Hit and Run Accidents in Wilmington
The legal process for hit and run accidents can be confusing. Many people are left wondering what their legal options are for compensation if the driver abruptly left. Exploring the legal consequences of leaving the accident scene and what legal steps to take may help you increase your chances of compensation. Talk to a Wilmington accident lawyer to find out more ways to obtain compensation.
LEGAL CONSEQUENCES FOR HIT AND RUNS
The legal consequences for hit and run accidents in Wilmington, Delaware apply when any driver leaves the scene of an accident when certain conditions are met. If any property damage occurs, involved drivers are expected to at least stop at the scene of the accident. This can look like damages to other vehicles or nearby property as a result of the accident.
Once drivers stop at the scene, they are then expected to determine if anyone was injured or killed. Drivers may leave the scene if they discover that no one was injured, killed, or suffered property damages. However, drivers are expected to report the car accident.
Drivers who leave the accident without checking for injuries, deaths, or damages could face legal consequences like fines and jail time. Depending on the severity of these damages that were left behind, drivers may face up to $3,000 fines, driver’s license revocation, or 2 years in jail. Police reports must be made for car accidents resulting in death, injuries, or $2,000 or more in property damages. This also applies if a driver appeared intoxicated with drugs or alcohol.
In other words, a driver who engages in a hit and run with another vehicle, bicyclist, motorcyclist, or pedestrian could face various legal consequences. Consider contacting a Wilmington accident lawyer if this happened to you.
LEGAL STEPS AFTER A HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT
There are several legal steps after a hit and run accident that you can take. A hit and run accident leaves many drivers without much information to go off of. Without the other driver’s contact or auto insurance information, many people think they have no accident claim. This may not always be true.
Collect as much information as possible. Write down details about the accident along with what you recall about the driver’s appearance and vehicle’s appearance. The license plate number can help in significant ways. Call police to make a report.
If you have enough information about the other driver, you might be able to file a claim with that driver’s insurance company. Otherwise, your legal options include working with a lawyer or filing an accident claim with your own auto insurance company. A lawyer can help you explore all your available legal options to find the best solutions for your unique situation.
CONTACT EDELSTEIN MARTIN & NELSON FOR LEGAL HELP
The aftermath of a hit and run accident can be chaotic but you may not have to face this alone. Feel free to call Edelstein Martin & Nelson by dialing (302) 504-4815 to speak with a Delaware car accident attorney for a free consultation today about your legal options. Our dedicated team of lawyers can help you seek compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and medical expenses. We are located in Wilmington, DE.