Lawyer for Hit-and-Run Accidents in Palm Beach Gardens, FL
Get an attorney who can help you identify all potential sources of compensation
Hit-and-run accidents in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, are a serious concern that can have devastating consequences for victims and their families. When a driver flees the scene of a car accident without stopping to render aid or provide contact information, they not only violate Florida law but also deprive victims of the assistance and support they need in the aftermath of a collision.
Victims of hit-and-run accidents may suffer from a range of severe injuries, including broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and internal organ damage. In addition to physical injuries, they may also experience emotional distress, financial strain, and uncertainty about their future.
At The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, P.A. in Palm Beach Gardens, we know the challenges faced by hit-and-run accident victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Palm Beach County, it's essential to take immediate action to protect your rights.
As your attorney, Mr. Shomo can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and pursue a claim against the responsible party. Our law firm will work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable for their actions and secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses. Don't wait to seek the legal representation you need. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
“Look no further, Casey Shomo is who you want to represent you! Him and Joanne are great. Their whole team is wonderful! Any questions or concerns I had they made sure to keep me updated. I’m so happy I chose them to represent me. Everything was fast and easy!”- Leah A., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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Florida Hit-and-Run Accident FAQs
- Why do drivers flee after a car accident?
- Does Florida have hit-and-run laws?
- Who pays for hit-and-run accidents in Florida?
- What should I do after a hit-and-run accident in Palm Beach Gardens?
- What penalties does a hit-and-run driver face under Florida law?
- Can I still recover damages if the hit-and-run driver is never found?
- How do police investigate hit-and-run crashes in Palm Beach Gardens?
- Are there time limits for reporting a hit-and-run accident to insurance?
- What role does uninsured motorist coverage play in hit-and-run claims?
- How can a Palm Beach Gardens car accident lawyer help after a hit-and-run crash?
Why do drivers flee after a car accident?
The decision to flee the scene of an accident is influenced by various factors. While some may view it to avoid accountability initially, the repercussions can be severe if apprehended by police. Not only do they remain responsible for the injuries and damages caused, but they also face potential penalties in criminal court. A driver may flee due to the following reasons:
- Uninsured or underinsured
- Unregistered vehicle
- Committing a crime or having an outstanding warrant
- Lack of a valid driver’s license or suspended license
- Fear of deportation or criminal action
- Driving while drunk or under the influence
- Driving a stolen car
- Outstanding arrest warrant
- Involved in criminal behavior
- Unaware of the damage caused
Does Florida have hit-and-run Florida laws?
In Florida, when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without stopping or providing their information, it's considered a hit-and-run. If you see someone was injured after a crash and leave without helping them receive medical care, that is also considered a hit and run. In terms of the offense, it depends on the specific details of the accident. If the accident only involves property damage, it's considered a misdemeanor, but if someone is injured or killed, it becomes a felony.
Who pays for hit-and-run accidents in Florida?
If the hit-and-run driver can be located, then you can take legal action against them, as with any other car accident. If the other driver is never found, however, things get more complicated. Your uninsured motorist insurance (UM), if you have it, can stand in for the at-fault driver’s insurance and pay for your damages, such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. You also have your no-fault insurance benefits, as with any other car wreck.
Depending on the circumstances, you may have other legal options as well. The only way to find out is to talk to an experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer as soon as possible.
What should I do after a hit-and-run accident in Palm Beach Gardens?
After any car accident, your safety and health should be the first priority. Make sure you and your passengers receive medical attention. Notifying law enforcement as soon as possible is important as well. Normally you would exchange contact information with the other driver but since they fled, it’s crucial to try and document the following that can serve as pieces of evidence for your case:
- License plate and vehicle details (make, model, vehicle color, etc.) of the hit-and-run driver.
- Witness testimonies if anyone saw the crash.
- Photos of the scene (damage to your vehicle and injuries).
One thing you should not do is try to pursue the hit-and-run driver. Leave that to the police.
Remember to report your accident to your insurance provider and seek legal advice from a hit-and-run attorney. By taking these steps, you can protect your rights and increase the likelihood of obtaining the compensation you deserve for your damages.
What penalties does a hit-and-run driver face under Florida law?
Under Florida law, leaving the scene of a crash is a serious offense, especially when someone is hurt or killed. The penalties vary depending on the severity of the injuries but can include long-term consequences beyond just criminal charges. In Palm Beach Gardens, cases involving injury or death often lead to aggressive prosecution. Drivers may face:
- Criminal charges: In Florida, a hit-and-run involving injury or death is a felony.
- Jail or prison time: Sentences may include up to 5 years for injury crashes and up to 30 years for fatal ones.
- Fines and license revocation: Drivers can face fines over $10,000 and mandatory license suspension for a minimum of 3 years.
- Restitution requirements: Courts may require the driver to pay restitution for any damage or medical costs not covered by insurance.
These legal penalties are only one side of the issue. A personal injury lawyer can help you pursue civil compensation, even if the state brings separate criminal charges.
Can I still recover damages if the hit-and-run driver is never found?
Yes, you may still be eligible to recover compensation even if the driver is never identified. In Florida, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is often the primary way to seek damages after a hit-and-run crash, especially in areas like West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, or near traffic-heavy zones like Military Trail or I-95. This coverage can help pay for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A personal injury lawyer can help prove the hit-and-run occurred and deal with the insurance company if they try to deny or delay your UM claim.
How do police investigate hit-and-run crashes in Palm Beach Gardens?
Police departments in Palm Beach Gardens use a range of investigative tools to track down hit-and-run drivers. These cases are taken seriously and can involve several agencies, especially when the crash occurs in busy areas like U.S. Highway 1, Congress Avenue, or the I-95 corridor. An investigation may involve:
- Surveillance footage: Officers gather video from traffic cameras, stores, and homes near the scene to help identify the vehicle.
- Eyewitness interviews: Police talk to bystanders who may have seen the crash or noted key details like the vehicle’s color or direction.
- Vehicle debris: Parts left behind at the scene can help match a vehicle make and model.
- Automated license plate readers: These systems track vehicle movement and can quickly flag suspect cars.
- Public alerts: Law enforcement may ask for help through social media or news outlets to find witnesses or track the driver.
The investigation plays a big role in how your injury claim moves forward. A lawyer can monitor progress, follow up with investigators, and preserve your right to seek damages from all responsible parties.
Are there time limits for reporting a hit-and-run accident to insurance?
Yes, most auto insurance policies in Florida require you to report a hit-and-run crash as soon as possible, often within 24 to 72 hours. Delays can lead to claim denials, especially if you don’t notify the police or your insurer in time. This is particularly important in Palm Beach Gardens, where busy corridors like Southern Boulevard or the intersections around Okeechobee Boulevard often lack direct witnesses. A lawyer can ensure the crash is properly documented and reported to preserve your rights under the policy.
What role does uninsured motorist coverage play in hit-and-run claims?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is often the only way to recover full compensation in a Florida hit-and-run case. It steps in when the at-fault driver cannot be identified, treating the crash as if the driver had no insurance at all. This coverage is optional in Florida, but highly recommended, especially for drivers in Palm Beach Gardens, where hit-and-run rates are high in areas like Boynton Beach and along U.S. 1. A lawyer can help trigger the UM coverage and challenge lowball tactics from insurers looking to minimize payout.
How can a Palm Beach Gardens car accident lawyer help after a hit-and-run crash?
Getting legal help after a hit-and-run crash can be the difference between a denied claim and a meaningful recovery. These cases involve more complexity than typical accidents, especially when the other driver cannot be immediately identified. A Palm Beach Gardens lawyer understands how to protect your interests and explore all possible sources of compensation. An attorney can help by:
- Finding available coverage: This includes uninsured motorist coverage, personal injury protection, and any third-party policies that may apply.
- Securing time-sensitive evidence: Attorneys know how to preserve surveillance footage and scene documentation before it disappears.
- Coordinating with law enforcement: Lawyers can follow up with police, relay relevant case updates, and advocate for thorough investigations.
- Challenging insurance delays: If your insurer tries to stall or deny the claim, an attorney can apply pressure and push back.
- Pursuing civil claims against at-fault drivers: If the driver is found, your lawyer can file a lawsuit to hold them financially responsible.
These steps all require legal knowledge, timing, and persistence. A local attorney can manage the details and fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on healing.
Schedule a free consultation after a hit-and-run in Florida
Over the years, our law firm has fought tirelessly to deliver justice for hit-and-run victims in Palm Beach Gardens. Mr. Shomo and his team use a client-centered approach that prioritizes personalized attention and unwavering support for crash victims. We understand that each case is unique, so we tailor our legal strategies to meet the individual needs of those we represent. To learn more about how our law firm can help after a hit-and-run, contact us today for a free consultation or visit us at our office in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.