Miami Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers
Skilled legal help when you are injured in a hit-and-run accident in Florida
Being involved and injured in a car accident can be a traumatic experience. When the other driver flees the scene, leaving you to deal with the aftermath alone, the situation becomes even more distressing. Hit-and-run accidents are, unfortunately, a common occurrence in Florida, and Miami is no exception. At Hickey Law Firm, we understand the challenges victims face after such incidents and we are committed to providing you with the legal assistance you need to get through this difficult situation.
Hire quality, not quantity. Bigger is not better with law firms. Better is better. We don’t advertise on TV and we don’t run a factory. We have an intense focus on you and your case. The Best Lawyers in America© recognizes John H. (Jack) Hickey in three areas: Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs, Medical Malpractice – Plaintiffs, and Admiralty and Maritime Law. Attorney John H. (Jack) Hickey is Board-Certified in Civil Trial by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). He is also double board certified by The Florida Bar in Civil Trial and Admiralty and Maritime Law, distinctions held by few attorneys in Florida.
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How can we help?
- What is a hit-and-run accident?
- How often do hit-and-run accidents happen in Florida?
- Why do drivers flee the scene of a Miami car accident?
- What are the legal implications of a hit-and-run in Florida?
- What should I do after a Miami hit-and-run accident?
- What is the value of my Miami hit-and-run accident claim?
- What are the challenges of Miami hit-and-run accidents?
- How can your Miami hit-and-run accident lawyers help with my case?
- Do you have a Miami car accident lawyer near me?
What is a hit-and-run accident?
A hit-and-run accident happens when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing contact information, assisting the injured person, or reporting the accident to law enforcement. This irresponsible behavior not only complicates the process of securing compensation but also poses significant legal issues.
How often do hit-and-run accidents happen in Florida?
The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that nearly 25% of all Florida crashes involve a hit-and-run driver. They further state:
- “In 2023, there were 104,273 hit-and-run crashes in Florida, a decrease of less than 1% from 2022.
- Hit-and-run crashes in 2023 resulted in 271 fatalities and 871 serious bodily injuries.
- Vulnerable road users are particularly at risk. Of the 271 hit-and-run fatalities in 2023, 159 were pedestrians and 47 were bicyclists (76% of hit-and-run fatalities).”
Florida law requires that drivers stop and wait at the scene after being involved in a car accident. It is also worth noting that the Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act requires a mandatory minimum of four years for a driver convicted of leaving the scene of an accident that involves a fatality.
Why do drivers flee the scene of a Miami car accident?
Understanding why drivers choose to leave the scene rather than wait can provide insights into the complexities of hit-and-run cases. Common reasons drivers might flee the scene include:
- Drivers may fear arrest due to factors like driving under the influence, lack of a valid license, or outstanding arrest warrants.
- Uninsured or underinsured drivers might flee to avoid financial liability.
- The shock of an accident can lead to panic, confusion, and irrational decisions, including leaving the scene.
Regardless of the reasons, leaving the scene of an accident is illegal and can lead to severe penalties for the driver.
What are the legal implications of a hit-and-run in Florida?
As stated earlier, Florida law requires that drivers involved in accidents must stop, provide information, and render aid if necessary. Failure to do so can result in:
- Depending on the severity of the accident, criminal charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies.
- Convicted drivers may face suspension or revocation of their driver’s license.
- Fines and restitution to victims are other common consequences.
These legal penalties aim to deter drivers from fleeing the scene, as well as emphasize the seriousness of such actions.
WHEN RESULTS MATTER, PEOPLE CHOOSE HICKEY LAW FIRM.
What should I do after a Miami hit-and-run accident?
If you or a loved one are the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Miami, you should take the following steps to protect your rights and well-being:
- Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
- Call 911 to immediately report the accident to law enforcement.
- Take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle, and any visible injuries.
- Collect contact details from any witnesses who saw the hit-and-run incident.
- Seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure your physical safety.
- Notify your insurance company. Inform them of the accident, but refrain from detailed statements until you consult with your attorney.
Taking these steps can positively affect the outcome of your case and your ability to secure the compensation to which you are entitled.
What is the value of my Miami hit-and-run accident claim?
After a hit-and-run accident that was not your fault, you may be eligible for a variety of financial compensation. This can include:
- Medical expenses, which cover current and future medical treatments related to the accident.
- Compensation for time off work and potential loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering, which addresses your physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other damaged personal property.
At Hickey Law Firm, we work to maximize your compensation for a comprehensive recovery.
What are the challenges of Miami hit-and-run accidents?
Hit-and-run accidents can present a variety of unique challenges, like:
- Identifying the driver, as without the at-fault driver, pursuing compensation can become more complicated.
- Lack of immediate information and limited evidence can hinder investigations.
- Dealing with uninsured motorist coverage and insurance companies can be a daunting experience.
Despite these challenges, the Miami car accident lawyers at Hickey Law Firm provide skilled and experienced legal representation, working toward a favorable outcome on your behalf.
How can your Miami hit-and-run accident lawyers help with my case?
At Hickey Law Firm, we understand how to represent victims of hit-and-run accidents in Miami. Our approach includes the following:
- We collaborate with law enforcement and use private investigators to identify the fleeing driver.
- We assist with uninsured motorist coverage claims and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- We file lawsuits against identified drivers and seek compensation for your injuries and losses through various legal avenues.
We are committed to ensuring you secure the justice and the compensation you deserve for what happened to you.
Do you have a Miami car accident lawyer near me?
Hickey Law Firm meets with car accident victims at our Miami office located in the heart of the city at 12150 SW 128th Ct, Suite 225. We meet with clients who are ill or immobile at their homes or other convenient locations when necessary.
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Talk to our Miami hit-and-run accident attorneys today for help
A hit-and-run accident can leave you facing not only physical injuries but also emotional and financial hardship. At Hickey Law Firm, we are dedicated to guiding you through the legal process, advocating for your rights, and securing the compensation you need to move forward with your life. If you or a loved one has been injured by a hit-and-run driver in Miami, you do not have to go through the legalities alone. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you on your road to recovery. To schedule your free consultation, call us or complete our contact form.