Hit-and-run accidents refer to situations where a driver causes damage to another person or property and flees the scene without rendering aid or providing identifying information. Indiana hit-and-run accident perpetrators may face serious criminal charges and civil penalties. According to the most recent statistics by the Indiana University Public Policy Institute, nearly 29,000 of the 217,077 collisions in the state involved hit-and-run drivers. The majority of the accidents occurred in Allen County, Monroe County, St. Joseph County, Vigo County, and Lake County. However, these accidents occur throughout the state at an alarming rate.
For instance, local news sources reported that law enforcement has arrested a driver believed to be involved in a fatal hit-and-run. The arrest came after officers were called to the accident scene, where they discovered two 18-year-old males suffering from serious injuries. One of the victims was on a skateboard while the other was on a bicycle. The skateboarder was taken to a local hospital for treatment; however, the bicyclist died at the accident scene. Officers arrested the suspected driver two days after the accident. The driver was charged with leaving the scene of a serious bodily injury accident and leaving the scene of a fatal accident.
While some people flee the scene of the accident because they are unaware an accident took place, the overwhelming majority leave because they are engaged in some other illegal behavior. Many drivers flee because they have a warrant out for their arrest, are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or were engaged in some other illicit behavior. While these reasons may explain why one fled the scene, it does not excuse it.
In Indiana, drivers involved in an accident must stop their vehicles close to the scene, provide identifying information to anyone involved in the incident, and provide reasonable assistance and contact the police. If a driver hits an unoccupied vehicle or causes property damage, the driver must take reasonable steps to locate and notify the property owner. If their search does not yield information, the driver must contact the police.
Recovering compensation after a hit-and-run accident poses many challenges to victims and their family members. However, victims can make claims through their uninsured motorist coverage, personal injury protection coverage, or MedPay coverage. These cases are complex and require an in-depth understanding of complicated tort laws. As such, victims should contact an attorney to discuss their rights and remedies.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
If you or someone you know has suffered injuries in an Indiana car accident, contact Padove Law for assistance. Attorney Burton Padove has been practicing personal injury law in the state for nearly 40 years. He has a successful history representing and advocating on behalf of Indiana injury victims. His practice handles claims stemming from Indiana motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, product liability, and more. Through his experience and dedication, he has recovered record verdicts on behalf of his clients. Contact Padove Law at 219-836-2200 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Indiana injury lawyer today.