A hit-and-run can be a life-altering event, disrupting your life in various ways. A hit-and-run occurs when a driver is involved in an accident and leaves the scene without providing their contact information. It can be a traumatic experience, leaving victims feeling lost, powerless, and confused.
The immediate effects of a hit-and-run can be devastating. Victims are often left with expensive property damage they are responsible for paying for and injuries that can easily become overwhelming. A hit-and-run accident can also be emotionally taxing for the entire family, knowing the other driver failed to take responsibility for their actions.
Hit-and-run accidents are a serious problem in Maryland, and they can have a devastating impact on victims and their families. The consequences of a hit-and-run accident in Maryland can vary depending on the severity of the accident and the circumstances of the crash. In some cases, the perpetrator may be charged with a felony offense and face jail time. Even if the driver is not charged with a felony, they may still face hefty fines and other penalties. In addition, victims may have a civil claim against the driver for their injuries and other damages.
A hit-and-run can be a traumatic experience, disrupting every aspect of your life. At Pinder Plotkin, we understand the immediate costs can be overwhelming, and the long-term effects can be devastating. Victims of a hit-and-run may experience physical, emotional, and financial hardship as a result of the incident. If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it’s important you call the Annapolis hit-and-run lawyers experienced in getting you the best outcome possible.
Common Causes of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Annapolis
Hit-and-run accidents are all too common in Annapolis, Maryland. Whether it’s due to a lack of awareness about the state laws or negligence, the effects of these incidents can be devastating. Knowing the common causes of hit-and-run accidents can help drivers in Annapolis be more aware and take steps to prevent future incidents.
One of the most common causes of hit-and-run accidents in Annapolis is intoxication. Drunk drivers often lack the cognitive abilities needed to make rational decisions and can cause serious damage to other vehicles and even pedestrians. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to flee the scene of an accident due to the fear of facing charges or because they are unaware that they were even involved in a serious accident.
Another common cause of hit-and-run accidents in Annapolis is distracted driving. Whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, or changing the radio station, distracted drivers are more likely to miss stop signs or traffic signals and can cause serious damage to other vehicles. It’s also not uncommon for distracted drivers to be unaware that they were involved in an accident or attempt to flee the scene in an attempt to avoid facing the consequences of their negligence.
A very common reason for hit-and-run accidents is a lack of insurance. Drivers without insurance may be more likely to flee an accident scene as they are aware of the serious financial implications following a hit-and-run crash. Without the protection of insurance, these drivers are more likely to attempt to escape from the scene of an accident to avoid financial responsibility.
Finally, some drivers may flee the scene of an accident due to a lack of awareness about the laws pertaining to hit-and-run incidents. Some drivers may not be aware that fleeing the scene of an accident is a criminal act that carries severe consequences.
Significance of a Hit-and-Run Case
Hit-and-run cases are a serious concern for both law enforcement and the public. When a driver fails to stop after being involved in a car accident, leaving the scene, and failing to provide any information or assistance to the other drivers, passengers, or victims of the accident, they trigger a slew of legal ramifications. The significance of filing a hit-and-run case is twofold.
First, filing a hit-and-run case can help bring justice to the victims of the accident. hit-and-run cases are a crime, and those responsible should be held accountable for their actions. Filing a case helps ensure that the perpetrator is brought to justice and that any victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Second, filing a hit-and-run case helps law enforcement deter future hit-and-run incidents. By filing a case, law enforcement can send a message to the public that hit-and-run cases are taken seriously, and those responsible will be prosecuted. This can help reduce the number of hit-and-run incidents in the future.
In conclusion, filing a hit-and-run case is an important step in ensuring justice for the victims and deterring future incidents. It is a necessary step in protecting both the public and those who have been unfairly injured by the negligence of another driver. Annapolis hit-and-run lawyers can help determine who is responsible for a hit-and-run accident and ensure justice is served.
Hit-and-Run Penalties
Hit-and-run accidents in Maryland can carry serious penalties. In the state of Maryland, leaving the scene of an accident is considered a crime and can result in both civil and criminal penalties. The severity of the penalties depends on the circumstances of the accident, the injuries involved, and whether or not drugs or alcohol played a part in the accident.
If property damage results from the hit-and-run accident, it is considered a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to one year in prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000. If the accident results in injury or death, it is considered a felony and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $15,000.
In addition to criminal penalties, hit-and-run drivers may also face civil action. This means the driver may be sued for damages by the injured party, resulting in additional fines and/or jail time.
How Can Pinder Plotkin Help?
It’s important to remember that hit-and-run accidents are taken very seriously in Maryland. If you have been in a hit-and-run accident, you may have fear and anxiety over what to do next.
Contact Pinder Plotkin today to schedule a free legal consultation with one of our experienced Annapolis hit-and-run lawyers. Our entire staff is driven to evaluate your case and ensure you have the best representation possible for your unique circumstances.