Florida recorded 104,273 hit-and-run crashes in 2023 alone, representing almost 25% of all crashes statewide.
Two hundred seventy-one people were killed and 871 were injured in these incidents, pedestrians and bicyclists accounting for 76% of fatalities.
Leaving the scene of an accident in Florida, however, can have devastating consequences far beyond criminal penalties.
In the aftermath of a car accident, especially when panic sets in or fault seems unclear, the impulse to flee can be overwhelming.
After a fleeing driver killed a cyclist, the Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act was passed in 2014 and strengthened penalties to deter fleeing drivers. Failure to remain at the scene can also jeopardize your ability to seek compensation and protect your legal rights in any subsequent civil proceedings.
Severe Criminal Penalties Under Florida's Hit-and-Run Laws
Drivers involved in any crash resulting in property damage, injury, or death are mandated by the law to stop at the scene and fulfill specific legal requirements immediately. Not complying with these laws can result in severe penalties that shift dramatically depending on the severity of the accident. Leaving the scene of a property damage incident constitutes a second-degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
In a car accident resulting in injuries, drivers who flee the accident scene are immediately charged with a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison, fines of $5,000, and a three-year loss of driving privileges. When you flee a fatal accident, you are subject to a first-degree felony penalty of 4 to 30 years in prison, fines of up to $10,000, and a suspension of your driving privileges.
Several legislative changes have strengthened these penalties, including the extension of prison sentences, increased fines, and lifetime license suspensions for repeat offenders. In addition, drivers involved in accidents where someone is injured must now call 911 and wait for law enforcement to arrive, removing any uncertainty about what needs to be done at the scene.
A very important next step would be to find an experienced car accident lawyer to guide you throughout the whole process.
How Staying at the Scene Protects Your Legal Rights and Claim
Staying at the scene of the accident serves multiple essential functions that are directly related to recovering compensation and protecting your legal rights. In addition to maintaining your credibility throughout any subsequent insurance or civil proceedings, staying demonstrates compliance with legal requirements. Fleeing the scene of an accident could severely undermine your position in a fault or damage claim, as courts and insurers may view it as evidence of guilt.
Being at the scene allows the police to create an official record by reporting the incident correctly. The report serves as important documentation for insurance claims and provides a third party's account of the accident.
Get Legal Guidance With The Law Offices of Sean M. Cleary
At The Law Offices of Sean M. Cleary, we have helped numerous people with their cases, and we know how traumatic a car accident can be. You can rely on our experienced legal team to help you?in this difficult time.
If you were a hit-and-run victim and you were seriously injured or lost a loved one, we can help you protect your rights and fight for your full compensation recovery. You need experienced legal representation to carefully investigate accident circumstances and gather all the evidence to build the strongest case possible. Get in touch with us for a free case evaluation.