New Port Richey Hit & Run Accident Attorney

Florida law clearly requires that motorists hit the brakes immediately after an accident and render assistance to anyone who is hurt. Failure to stop is a criminal offense, with defendants facing possible time in jail. Sadly, countless people simply drive away. If you were injured in a hit and run collision, you face certain hurdles to receiving compensation. Call Wendy Doyle-Palumbo today to speak with a New Port Richey hit & run accident attorney. Our firm can review what options you have for compensation and, if hired, start searching for the missing driver and gathering other evidence.

Steps to Take Following a Hit and Run Accident in New Port Richey

Motorists are probably in a state of shock after a collision. Seeing the at-fault driver flee only compounds their sense of confusion.

Nonetheless, motorists should try to take the following steps to increase the likelihood they will receive compensation:

1. Note anything distinctive about the car. What was the color and make? Were there bumper stickers, or did you see some or all of the license plate? Also note anything about the driver, including age, gender, race, and so on.
2. Call the police. You definitely need to report the accident to the nearest police station. An officer can stop by the scene to create a crash report. The police can also put out a bulletin to the public for leads on the runaway driver.
3. Talk with witnesses, if you can. Maybe a witness saw more of the license plate, or they noted the direction in which the driver fled. Ask all witnesses for their name and contact information.
4. Receive medical care. You should go to the hospital and quickly receive care. This will help document your injuries. Also, Florida law requires that you receive medical care within 14 days to receive PIP benefits. There is no reason to delay.
5. Consult an attorney. Your lawyer will help with your case. For example, we might visit nearby New Port Richey businesses to see if their security cameras recorded the accident. The video might show more detailed information about the vehicle, such as the license plate number.

If the police find the driver, we can sue them for compensation to cover your accident. Otherwise, motorists might be left with their PIP benefits, health insurance, and collision coverage to pay for medical care and get their car fixed.

Another option is to make a claim on the state’s crime victims fund, which pays compensation to victims of crimes. A hit and run accident usually qualifies.

We Stop for You

It is outrageous that motorists flee the accident scene, leaving badly hurt victims on their own. Get justice by calling our law firm to speak with an experienced New Port Richey hit & run accident lawyer today. Attorney Doyle-Palumbo can coordinate with the police to see if they have nabbed the driver. She can also begin submitting claims to other insurers, including your PIP insurer.