Types of Evidence You Can Use To Prove a Hit and Run Accident

When a driver responsible for an accident leaves the scene, they make it difficult for the victims to seek justice and compensation. However, while it can be difficult to get justice and compensation after a hit-and-run accident, it is not impossible. Collecting the proper evidence can help you prove a hit-and-run accident and ensure you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

What Is a Hit-And-Run Accident?

Florida law requires that any driver involved in a traffic collision resulting in property damage, injury, or death must remain at the scene, exchange information with other involved parties, and render help. A hit-and-run is when a driver flees the accident scene without stopping to render aid or exchange the necessary information. In Florida, hit-and-run drivers can face criminal charges.

Evidence You Can Use To Prove a Hit-And-Run Accident

After a hit-and-run accident, it may seem impossible to locate the fleeing driver and obtain compensation for your injuries and damages from them. However, while catching a fleeing driver after a hit-and-run accident can be challenging, it is not impossible. With enough evidence and the help of law enforcement and an attorney, it is possible to locate the fleeing driver. If you cannot locate the fleeing driver, it may be possible to obtain compensation through your insurer. You can file a compensation claim with your insurer if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This coverage protects you when you are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist and when you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, and the driver is never located.

To recover compensation from the at-fault driver or your insurance company, you must prove that you were involved in a hit-and-run accident. The following are some of the types of evidence you can use to prove a hit-and-run accident;

Witness Testimonies

If anyone witnessed the accident, they can provide valuable information, such as a description of the vehicle, the fleeing driver, and the events leading up to and following the collision. It is important to get witnesses’ names and phone numbers at the accident scene so they can provide their statements later.

Photos and Videos

Pictures and videos taken at the accident scene, such as photos of the damage to your vehicle and any debris or skid marks, can help prove a hit-and-run accident.

Surveillance Footage

If your accident happened in an area with surveillance cameras, the footage could be vital in proving your hit-and-run accident. Surveillance footage can help you identify the fleeing driver and their vehicle and locate them. Footage from your vehicle’s dashcam or another dashcam can also provide clear evidence of the accident.

Police Reports

The police report pertaining to your accident will include crucial information, such as the details of your accident and any witness statements. A police report can serve as vital evidence when proving a hit-and-run accident.

Contact Us for Legal Help

Our Orlando personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help you gather evidence and build a case to prove your hit-and-run accident. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Ocala, Tampa, Miami, Jacksonville, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, Naples, and Melbourne areas.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.062.html