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With Florida’s warm weather and sunny skies, it’s the perfect place to ride a motorcycle down the open road. However, we know from experience that motorcycle accidents happen often, especially when motorists are sharing the road. If you are hit by a negligent driver, you expect that this person will pull over, offer help, and wait for the police to arrive.
Sadly, some drivers flee the scene of a motorcycle crash to avoid negative consequences. When a driver fails to stop after colliding with a motorcyclist, this is known as a hit-and-run motorcycle accident. Our team explains more about these incidents below.
Penalties for Fleeing the Scene of a Crash
Florida law requires that all drivers who are involved in collisions stop at the scene and provide their name, address, driver’s license, and car registration information to the other party. Additionally, if the party is in need of medical treatment (which is often the case with motorcycle accidents), the driver must render “reasonable assistance” to help the person get medical treatment.
Committing a hit and run, especially after crashing into a motorcycle rider, carries serious penalties that will vary depending on the circumstances of the crash. In Florida, the penalties include:
- Accidents That Cause Property Damage. Second-degree misdemeanor, up to 60 days in jail, and a $500 fine.
- Accidents That Cause Personal Injury. Third-degree felony, up to five years in prison or five years of probation, and a $5,000 fine.
- Accidents That Cause Death. First-degree felony, up to 30 years in prison, and a $10,000 fine.
How to Locate the Driver and Collect Evidence
Drivers often flee the scene of a crash for many reasons—they may be driving under the influence, have a suspended license, or are scared of legal consequences. In any case, never attempt to chase the driver who has fled the scene of an accident. Instead, immediately call 9-1-1 so that police arrive on the scene, as well as emergency medical services.
Tell the police any distinguishing features you noticed about the driver and the vehicle, including the color, make, model and license plate number. Additionally, indicate which way you believe the driver fled so that they can attempt to locate the person. The police can also see if any eyewitnesses or video cameras caught the incident as well.
Pursuing Compensation After a Hit and Run
Those injured in hit-and-run motorcycle collisions often have many questions regarding what to do next and how to pursue compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Canan Law are here to answer any questions you may have.
With over 85 years of legal experience, we have been advocating for those injured across Saint Augustine and all of Florida for decades. We will do everything in our power to help you get your life back on track. Give us a call at (904) 849-2266 to learn more about your legal options.
