From fender-benders to massive crashes that may end in either serious injuries or death, the reality is that dealing with a car accident is never convenient. This frustration multiplies when the other driver leaves the scene. Hit-and-run car accidents in Clarkesville often leave a motorist with fewer opportunities for financial recovery, which is why it is crucial to work with a skilled car accident attorney from Smith Hulsey Law who could advocate for you.
Drivers may decide to flee the scene of a wreck to try to escape financial responsibility for it. However, our local attorneys have experience dealing with all types of auto accidents and could help you explore all potential remedies.
Georgia Code Annotated § 40-6-270 states that any driver who is in an accident that leads to vehicle damage, injury, or death must stop as close to the scene as possible. The driver must provide their name and address and their vehicle registration. If anyone is injured, the law requires more than a stop, and the driver must provide reasonable assistance if it is apparent that treatment is necessary or if the injured party requests assistance.
Failure to stop a car at the scene is a misdemeanor in Clarkesville. When the accident is the proximate cause of a severe injury or death, the offense becomes a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. This punishment is in addition to any other penalties linked to the collision.
A driver may choose not to stop at the scene of a wreck because of fear. They may have been engaging in reckless or dangerous behavior and did not want to be caught. For instance, driving without insurance, driving without a license or with a suspended license, driving a stolen car, and driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs are common reasons that drivers may leave the scene of a car accident.
Understanding potential motives may not seem important to a motorist injured in a Clarkesville hit-and-run car collision. However, it can help investigators locate the wrongdoer. An attorney from our firm will look at all the available evidence in a case and work to ensure justice is served.
Clarkesville motorists who have been impacted by hit-and-run accidents are often left feeling unsure about what steps to take to pursue damages. However, they can follow specific steps to demonstrate that another vehicle was involved in the accident, which can open potential avenues of financial recovery.
Injured people should contact the police immediately and their own insurance company. When witnesses are present at the scene, the injured motorist should get their contact information and ask them if they can provide any details about the car that fled the scene. The witness information may be enough to track down the vehicle and driver.
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is required for drivers making car payments. UM is offered but not required for those who do not owe money on their vehicles. To make a UM claim, an injured driver must show that another vehicle hit their car or was otherwise negligent, causing a crash.
The aftermath of any car accident can be painful, frustrating, and financially draining. Hit-and-run car accidents in Clarkesville can magnify a person’s frustration and financial stress. Fortunately, you do not have to handle this situation on your own.
The well-versed lawyers at Smith Hulsey Law could help you every step of the way. Schedule a consultation with our legal team to learn more.
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