Hit and Run in Florida: Laws, Charges, and What to Do

Did you know that 515,957 hit-run crashes resulted in 1,251 fatalities in Florida over the past five years? That’s 103,191 hit-and-runs resulting in 250 deaths per year in the state!

This alarming figure highlights a pressing concern that affects those directly involved in accidents and the entire community. Being involved in a hit-and-run in Florida can be stressful and traumatic. But what if one of the drivers flees the scene without exchanging information?

Knowing the legal implications, potential hit-and-run charges in Florida, and what to do in this scenario can help protect your rights. It can also promote road safety in the Sunshine State.

That’s why we’ve compiled this guide. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about hit-and-runs in Florida. We’ll also provide tips on finding an attorney to help you navigate the legal process that follows.

What Happens in a Hit-and-Run in Florida?

A hit-and-run occurs when a driver leaves the accident scene without complying with the law. This means neglecting their legal obligations, as out outlined in the Florida Statutes Section 316.061. Typically, here’s what happens in a hit-and-run:

• The driver continues without stopping
• The driver stops but leaves before exchanging contact details with the other party

By law, drivers involved in an accident need to:

• Stop at the scene or as close as possible without obstructing traffic
• Provide their name, address, vehicle registration number, and driver’s license to the other driver or passengers
• Render reasonable assistance to anyone who is injured, such as calling 911 or taking them to a hospital
• Report the collision to the nearest police station if there is no police officer at the scene

Suppose the other driver or passengers are not present or are incapacitated. In that case, the driver must attach a written notice with their information to a conspicuous place on the vehicle or property damaged and report the accident to the police.

A hit-and-run can involve another vehicle, a pedestrian, a cyclist, or a fixed object such as a fence or a building. It does not matter who was at fault for the accident; leaving the scene is always illegal and punishable per Florida hit-and-run laws.

What Are the Laws and Charges for a Hit-and-Run in Florida?

The laws and charges for hit and run in Florida depend on the severity of the accident and the injuries or damages caused. According to Statutes Section 316.027, you may face one of four hit and run charges in Florida. Learn more about each below:

Hit-and-Run Charge 1

It’s a first-degree felony if you leave the scene of a fatal accident. This carries a potential 30-year prison sentence. It also attracts a fine of up to $10,000 and permanent revocation of driving privileges.

Hit-and-Run Charge 2

Fleeing the scene of a collision involving serious physical injury is a second-degree felony with a penalty of up to 15 years in prison. You may also be required to pay a fine of up to $10,000 and face revocation of driving privileges for at least three years.

Hit-and-Run Charge 3

Fleeing the scene of a hit-and-run involving injury is a third-degree felony with a penalty of up to five years in prison. It also comes with a fine of up to $5,000 and revocation of driving privileges for at least three years.

Hit-and-Run Charge 4

You risk getting charged with a second-degree misdemeanor if you leave the scene of an accident that involves injury. Penalties for breaking Florida hit-and-run laws include up to $500 in fines, six points on your driver’s license, and up to 60 days in jail.

What Should You Do if Involved in a Hit-and-Run in Florida?

Feeling overwhelmed, confused, and angry is normal after a car accident. However, taking the steps below can help ensure that your rights are protected.

Call 911 and Report the Accident

Provide as much information as you can about the other vehicle, such as the make, model, color, license plate number, direction of travel, and any distinctive features. Also, describe the location, time, and circumstances of the accident.

Seek Medical Attention for Your Injuries

Even if you feel fine, you may have internal injuries that are not immediately apparent. A doctor’s visit will help in documenting your injuries for your insurance claim or legal action.

Gather Evidence From the Scene

Take photos or videos of your vehicle, your injuries, the road conditions, and any skid marks or debris. Also, look for any witnesses who saw the accident or have dashcam footage and get their contact information.

Contact Your Insurance Company

You’ll want to inform your insurance provider about the accident. Initiate the process of submitting a claim through your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.

Alternatively, you can rely on your collision or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage if you don’t have a UM cover. Both have lower limits and may not cover all your losses.

Consult With an Experienced Attorney

An attorney can help gather evidence for your case, identify the liable party, negotiate with the insurance company, and initiate legal action if necessary. Florida lawyers can also protect your rights and interests, ensuring you get fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

How to Find a Professional Attorney for Your Hit and Run Case in Florida

If you are a victim of a hit-and-run in Florida, you may need to find a lawyer who can help you with your case. Here are some tips on how to find the right lawyer for a hit-and-run victim in Florida.

Specialty in Personal Injury Law

In most personal injury cases, someone gets injured because of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. A lawyer specializing in this field can help you with your hit-and-run claim. They have the knowledge and skills to handle the legal aspects of your case, such as liability, damages, evidence, and negotiations.

Experience in Hit-and-Run Cases

Attorneys in Florida who have handled hit-and-run cases can help you with the investigation, evidence collection, and litigation process. Ask about their track record and percentage of successful outcomes. Don’t be afraid to inquire about case examples of hit-and-run instances they have worked on.

Free Consultation and Contingency Fee

A free consultation is the perfect opportunity to meet the lawyer in person, discuss your case, and evaluate your options. A contingency fee arrangement is a payment method where the lawyer only gets paid if they win your case or get you a settlement.

This way, you don’t have to pay any upfront fees or expenses. You only pay a percentage of your recovery to the lawyer. Ask about the fees, expenses, and payment terms during the consultation.

Comfort and Trust Matter

A hit-and-run case can be stressful and emotional, and you need a lawyer who can support you and advocate for you throughout the process. Ensure your lawyer has good communication skills, listens to your needs and concerns, answers your questions clearly and honestly, and keeps you updated on your case progress.

They should also have a good reputation, ethics, and professionalism.

Calil Law: Your Legal Partner in Florida

Knowledge is power, and knowing the laws and consequences of a hit-and-run in Florida can make a difference in ensuring justice is served. Taking immediate action is imperative if you are in the unfortunate situation of dealing with a hit-and-run incident.

Enlist the help of a lawyer at Calil Law. Our experienced attorneys in Florida are here to guide you through the legal process. We’ll ensure your rights are protected at every step.

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you or someone you know is involved in a hit-and-run in Florida.