According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, there were 11,762 hit-and-run accidents in 2012 alone. This means that 11,762 drivers were involved in a collision with another car, a motorcycle, a bicycle, a pedestrian, or even a fixed object and yet they failed to stay at the scene of the crash to speak with police or other officials. Through these hit-and-run collisions, at least 3,112 people were injured and 37 people were killed.
Drivers who flee the scene of an accident are not only breaking state and local laws but they are also risking the health and safety of the victims of those collisions. After an accident, a victim may be unconscious or unable to move freely, potentially limiting or eliminating that victim’s ability to call for help. Sometimes, the driver fleeing the scene is the only one involved that is capable of requesting help but for some reason, the driver does not do so and leaves the accident. This can prevent medical personnel from responding to victims or delay a response, potentially worsening a victim’s injuries or even leading to death.
The risks associated with a hit-and-run crash are so serious that being involved in one can lead to significant charges, even if the fleeing driver was not responsible for the original collision. On top of any criminal or traffic charges brought against that driver, there exists the possibility that the victims of a crash will bring a civil claim for their damages which lets victims seek compensation from an at-fault party. Speaking with an injury lawyer is the best way to learn about your legal rights following an accident.
Sheriff’s deputies in Yuma County responded to a fatal collision on Sunday that involved a fleeing automobile and a pedestrian. According to authorities, an SUV was traveling along Highway 95 when the driver came upon a pedestrian walking on the side of the highway. For reasons that are not yet known, the SUV struck the pedestrian, causing a serious collision that left the pedestrian dead. The driver of the SUV fled the scene.
A witness to the crash reported a description of the SUV and the license plate number as a vehicle that might have been involved. When authorities found it a short time later, there was noticeable damage to the SUV that appeared consistent with the collision. The driver of the SUV has been arrested and charged with leaving the scene of a fatal crash.
If a hit-and-run driver has caused a collision that left you injured or claimed the life of your loved one, you may be entitled to relief. Call the lawyer at Abels & Annes, P.C. today for a free case consultation regarding your accident and your right to recover. We are standing by 24 hours a day at (855) PHX-LAWYER and there is no obligation on your part for taking advantage of the free consultation.
Prior Blog Entry:
Drunk Driver Hits 2 Cars and a Pedestrian near Tempe Walmart, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published January 18, 2014.
Resource:
Arizona woman charged in deadly hit-and-run, Fox 10 Phoenix/Associated Press, published January 21, 2014.