Hit and Run Accidents: A Serious Issue in Connecticut

While any car accident can be serious, hit-and-run crashes are particularly egregious. A hit-and-run occurs when one of the drivers involved flees the scene before the police arrive and file an incident report. This act of fleeing is seen as shirking responsibility and is illegal in Connecticut. Despite the other driver fleeing, victims of hit-and-run accidents still have rights and can seek compensation for their injuries and damages.

How Bert McDowell Injury Law Can Help

At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we have a team of dedicated professionals ready to assist victims of hit-and-run accidents. Our expertise includes:

• Car Accident Lawyers
• Truck Accident Lawyers
• Drunk Driver Accident Lawyers
• Pedestrian Accident Lawyers
• Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

You have the right to recover compensation for your injuries and damages, even if the other driver fled the scene. In some cases, you may also be eligible for additional compensation known as punitive damages.

Why Connecticut Treats Hit-and-Run Accidents Seriously

In Connecticut, all drivers involved in an accident are required by law to stop, check for injuries, and call 911 if needed. A hit-and-run disrupts this process, often leaving victims vulnerable. For example, if a victim is unconscious and the driver flees, it could delay life-saving medical treatment.

Hit-and-run accidents are also seen as an attempt to avoid responsibility. Connecticut follows a fault-based system, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering the damages. Fleeing the scene is not only illegal but also an attempt to evade these obligations.

It’s important to note that law-abiding drivers can sometimes be accused of a hit-and-run if they move their vehicle after an accident. Always stop as close to the scene as possible, unless remaining there would pose a safety hazard. If you must move your car, notify the police and the other party involved, and stay within sight of the accident scene.

What to Do If the Other Driver Fled

If you’re a victim of a hit-and-run accident, you still have rights under the law. Here’s what you should do:

1. Stay at the accident scene and call 911 immediately.
2. If possible, take note of the fleeing vehicle’s license plate number, color, make, and model.
3. Wait for the police to arrive and file a report. This will be crucial when filing an insurance claim or seeking legal action.

Even if the police cannot immediately locate the fleeing driver, they often have a high success rate in tracking them down. They may rely on:

• Eyewitness accounts
• License plate information
• Vehicle descriptions
• Surveillance footage from nearby cameras
• Public tips from local residents

If the authorities are unable to locate the other driver, our experienced accident investigators at Bert McDowell Injury Law can step in to help.

Understanding Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are a form of additional compensation awarded to victims of crimes like hit-and-run accidents. While most car accident settlements primarily cover medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, punitive damages are meant to penalize the at-fault driver and send a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated.

These damages can help offset the pain and suffering endured by the victim while also serving as a punishment for the driver who fled the scene.

Contact Bert McDowell Injury Law Today

Hit-and-run accidents are a serious matter, and you deserve justice. At Bert McDowell Injury Law, we are committed to helping victims in Connecticut recover the compensation they deserve. Our experienced lawyers will handle your case with care and precision.

Call us today at 475-231-3274 for a free consultation, or fill out our online contact form to get started. Let us fight for your rights and hold the responsible party accountable.