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Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident in Florida Highlights Legal Rights of Victims and Their Families
Understanding Wrongful Death and Personal Injury Claims After a Hit-and-Run Crash
Pedestrians have little protection when struck by a moving vehicle. Even at relatively low speeds, a collision can result in catastrophic or fatal injuries. When a driver flees the scene instead of stopping to render aid or contact emergency responders, victims and their families often face additional emotional, financial, and legal challenges.
In a case we handled, a pedestrian was struck and killed while riding a scooter home from a friend’s house. The at-fault driver was allegedly under the influence and fled the scene.
If you or a loved one was injured or killed in a hit-and-run accident, you may have legal options. Even if the at-fault driver is not immediately identified, compensation may still be available through uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues.
At the Law Offices of Jason Turchin, we represent victims of serious pedestrian accidents, hit-and-run crashes, and wrongful death cases throughout Florida and handle qualifying cases nationwide.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a crash leaves the scene without fulfilling legal obligations, which may include:
- Stopping immediately
- Checking on injured individuals
- Calling emergency services
- Providing identifying and insurance information
- Cooperating with law enforcement
Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense in many states, particularly when serious injuries or death occur.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Accidents in Florida
Although every case is different, pedestrian crashes may involve allegations of:
Distracted Driving
Drivers may fail to notice pedestrians because they are using a cellphone or otherwise distracted.
Speeding
Higher vehicle speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of injuries.
Impaired Driving
Alcohol or drug impairment may contribute to serious crashes.
Failure to Yield
Drivers may fail to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, intersections, or other areas where pedestrians have the right of way.
Poor Visibility
Nighttime conditions, inadequate lighting, or weather may contribute to collisions, although drivers are still expected to operate their vehicles safely.
Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians struck by vehicles may suffer:
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Head trauma may result in concussions or permanent neurological injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Serious collisions may cause paralysis or other long-term impairments.
Broken Bones
Fractures involving the pelvis, legs, arms, ribs, and hips are common.
Internal Injuries
Victims may suffer internal bleeding or organ damage requiring emergency surgery.
Wrongful Death
Unfortunately, many pedestrian crashes result in fatal injuries.
Can You Recover Compensation If the Driver Flees?
Yes, in some situations.
Even if the at-fault driver has not yet been identified, injured victims or surviving family members may still have options, including:
- Uninsured motorist (UM) insurance claims
- Claims against an identified driver once located
- Wrongful death claims
- Other available insurance coverage depending on the circumstances
Every case should be evaluated individually.
Compensation Available After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Wrongful death damages
The damages available depend on the facts of the case and applicable state law.
Evidence That May Help Your Case
Important evidence may include:
- Surveillance video
- Traffic camera footage
- Dash camera recordings
- Eyewitness statements
- Police reports
- Medical records
- Vehicle debris
- Cell phone photographs
- Accident reconstruction evidence
Because surveillance footage may be erased quickly, prompt investigation is often critical.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you or a loved one is involved in a hit-and-run collision:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Seek emergency medical treatment.
- Report the crash to law enforcement.
- Photograph the scene if possible.
- Obtain contact information from witnesses.
- Preserve damaged clothing and personal belongings.
- Notify your insurance company.
- Contact an attorney experienced in pedestrian accident litigation.
Early action may help preserve valuable evidence before it disappears.
How the Law Offices of Jason Turchin May Help
Our firm represents victims of serious pedestrian accidents and wrongful death cases throughout Florida and handles qualifying cases nationwide.
We may assist by:
- Investigating the crash
- Locating surveillance footage
- Identifying insurance coverage
- Working with accident reconstruction experts
- Pursuing compensation through settlement negotiations or litigation
We handle qualifying cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorneys’ fees or costs unless we recover compensation for you.
For a free consultation, call (800) 337-7755 or chat with us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I recover compensation if the driver is never found?
Potentially. Many victims may have uninsured motorist coverage or other insurance benefits that may apply to a hit-and-run accident.
What if my loved one died in the crash?
Surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim, depending on the facts and applicable law.
How long do police investigate hit-and-run accidents?
Every investigation is different. Law enforcement may continue reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and other evidence after the crash.
What evidence should I preserve?
Photographs, medical records, witness information, police reports, damaged clothing, and insurance documents may all be important.
What compensation may be available?
Medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, permanent disability, funeral expenses, and wrongful death damages may be recoverable depending on the circumstances.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault?
In some situations, yes. Your legal rights depend on the facts of the accident and the laws of the applicable state.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit?
Deadlines vary by state and should be reviewed promptly with an attorney.
Is there a cost to speak with a lawyer?
No. The Law Offices of Jason Turchin offers free consultations.
Do you handle hit-and-run cases throughout Florida?
Yes. We represent clients across Florida and can often handle qualifying cases nationwide with cocounsel where necessary.
