Hit and run accidents are a problem throughout the United States and especially in Florida. According to data from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, 25% of all crashes are hit and run crashes. From 2012 through 2014, there were 235,666 hit and run crashes in Florida. And during this period, the number of hit and run crashes has been on the rise.
In 2014, there were more than 80,000 hit and run crashes throughout the state. This number reflects a 7% increase as compared with the year before. Even more alarming is that the number of hit and run fatalities has increased by 23%. In addition, 46 counties throughout Florida saw an increase in the number of hit and run crashes from the previous year. Importantly, these accidents do not just affect motor vehicles. Nearly half of all hit and run crash fatalities involved pedestrians—a 17% increase from the previous year.
Florida Law on Hit and Run Accidents
Under Florida law, a driver involved in a car accident that causes serious bodily injury to a person must immediately stop the vehicle and remain at the scene of the crash. This law, known as the Aaron Cohen Life Protection Act, became effective on July 1, 2014. Violation of the law can result in a second degree felony. What’s more, cases involving DUI and death have a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 4 years. In addition, drivers may also have their license revoked for three years under the new law.
The State of Florida is committed to reducing hit and run crashes. The Florida Highway Patrol has launched a campaign with the Florida Sheriffs Association, the Florida Police Chiefs Association, Students Against Destructive Decisions and the Florida Department of Transportation to reduce hit and run crashes and to make the roads safer. If you are involved in a hit and run crash, the Patrol encourages drivers to call law enforcement, remain calm, obtain witness information, sketch the scene to show the vehicle crash locations, and help any injured persons.
Brandon Florida Car Accident Attorneys Can Help
If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident in Florida, it is important to have an experienced Florida car accident attorney who can protect your rights. At Reed & Reed, we have a team of dedicated Florida car accident attorneys who want to help you recover compensation for your injuries. Whether you are involved in a pedestrian accident or truck accident, our Florida motor vehicle accident attorneys have experience prosecuting all types of claims.
From our office in Brandon, we help clients in Tampa, New Tampa, Plant City, East Hillsborough County and throughout the state of Florida. Contact Reed & Reed for a free consultation.
