Many times, people who’ve been involved in accidents leave the victims in pain. The reasons for this can be numerous, right from panicking to not knowing the legal repercussions behind the action.
The failure to stop after accidents can have serious legal, financial, and emotional consequences. Luckily, the top hit-and-run lawyers can help you through the legal process. They can help you understand your rights and ensure you get a favorable outcome in your case.
This article will help you understand the consequences of not stopping after an accident. You’ll also gain knowledge on what to do in this situation.
What Are the Consequences of Not Stopping After an Accident?
Hit-and-run cases are common in the U.S., with some drivers leaving the scene almost immediately.
Unfortunately, not stopping after the accident can lead to destructive consequences. Staying informed and seeking professional help can assist you in this situation.
Let’s look at some of the consequences of these leaving the scene of an accident.
1. Legal Consequences
It is a crime to leave an accident scene without providing assistance or stopping. Even if you can’t help, you must contact the appropriate authorities or law enforcement for help.
In the U.S., legal penalties vary by state. The more common ones are listed below.
- Fines: Offenders may pay a significant amount as a fine depending on the accident’s severity. This amount ranges from a few hundred to thousands of dollars.
- Driver’s license suspension: Many places can automatically suspend the offender’s driver’s license. The duration of the suspension may range from months to a year.
- Jail time: Hit-and-run drivers may spend some jail time to pay for the crime, especially if fatalities or injuries occur. The jail time for hit-and-run accidents resulting in serious injury may vary depending on state laws.
2. Financial Consequences
Hit-and-run cases also have financial implications. The cost often falls back on the offender. Some of the overwhelming financial consequences include:
- Increased insurance premiums: The insurance premiums of any driver guilty of a hit-and-run are likely to increase. After this incident, insurance companies may regard the driver as a high risk, increasing the premium. Depending on the severity, the company may also cancel the offender’s policy.
- Civil lawsuits: The accident victims may file civil lawsuits against the driver to seek compensation. The driver may pay for the victim’s medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The driver may also end up having to pay for punitive damages.
3. Social and Emotional Consequences
Financial and legal consequences are obvious. However, social and emotional ones are something many people carry forever. Some of these implications include:
- Reputation damage: Being accused of a hit-and-run can severely ruin the driver’s personal and professional reputation.
- Guilt and anxiety: Living with the guilt of leaving someone unattended at an accident scene can result in long-term stress and anxiety. This guilt is especially worse if the victim loses their life.
Apart from the drivers, victims may also face post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Actions To Take after an Accident
After an accident, the best thing to do is stay at the scene and assist the victims. You should also report the accident to law enforcement or the appropriate authorities.
These actions will prove you are responsible and compassionate towards others. In case you feel overwhelmed, contact a hit-and-run lawyer for legal help. This would help you navigate the legal process smoothly.
Don’t try to handle the situation on your own. Mistakes made here, even the most minor ones, can have devastating effects on your life. In some extreme cases, the effects may linger for the rest of your life.
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