Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming, leaving you feeling confused, hurt, and uncertain about what steps to take next. In Florida, where traffic accidents are unfortunately common, it’s important to understand your rights and know how to protect yourself after such an incident. This guide will help you navigate the complex process of dealing with a hit-and-run accident, ensuring that your rights are preserved, and that you can pursue compensation for any injuries or damages incurred.
Attorney - Partner Attorney - Of Counsel
Franklin Domenech, Esq.
William Alexander Corzo, Esq.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation 
In the chaos following an accident, it’s essential to stay as calm as possible. While it can be difficult to process, especially when the other driver has fled the scene, keeping a level head is vital. First, check for any immediate injuries. If you’re injured or if anyone else involved in the accident is, call 911 immediately for emergency medical assistance. Even if you don’t feel injured, some injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.
Once medical help is on the way, if it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further collisions. Turning on your hazard lights will alert other drivers to the accident. It’s important not to leave the scene, as doing so could lead to legal consequences.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
Even though the other driver has fled, gathering as much information as possible can significantly help your case. Take photographs of your vehicle and any damage it sustained. If there are any visible signs on the road—such as skid marks, tire tracks, or broken glass—take pictures of those too, as they can be crucial for investigators.
If possible, note the make, model, and color of the vehicle involved in the hit-and-run. Try to remember any distinctive features, such as damage to the vehicle, decals, or the make and model of the car. Even if you don’t know the full details, anything you can recall might assist the authorities.
If there are any witnesses to the accident, try to get their contact information. They could be invaluable in helping law enforcement identify the fleeing driver. Remember, in some cases, nearby businesses or security cameras may have captured footage of the incident.
Highly recommend victory law firm they've been nothing but great and and very presentable if you want to win a case I definitely I give it 5 stars” - Yari Yes Mr. Domenech, Mr. Leon, Miss. Katerina helped me and my family tremendously. They are knowledgeable, professional, laways available and most importantly care about their clients, I would recommend them 100% and more. Endlessly grateful." - Llubikza Kairuz Attorney William Corzo did an excellent job in assisting me with my car accident case. He was thorough and professional and the outcome was great- would definitely recommend him." - Patrick Dollar
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, you should always seek medical attention after being involved in a car accident. Some injuries, such as internal trauma, whiplash, or concussions, may not become apparent right away. Getting checked by a medical professional ensures that any injuries are documented, which will be vital for your insurance claim and any potential legal action. Having medical records is also important for verifying the extent of your injuries.
Be sure to keep a record of all your medical visits, treatments, and prescribed medications. This documentation can serve as proof in your case for compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
In Florida, you are legally required to report a hit-and-run accident to the police. Contacting the authorities promptly after the incident ensures that a formal investigation can begin. Police officers will gather all the evidence available, including witness statements, photographs, and any relevant traffic camera footage. Filing a police report also establishes an official record of the accident, which is essential for both your insurance claim and any personal injury lawsuit you may pursue later.
When giving a statement to the police, provide all the details you gathered, including the description of the vehicle and the accident scene. The more information you can offer, the more likely the authorities will be able to track down the driver responsible for the accident.
Notify Your Insurance Company
In Florida, a no-fault state, your insurance will cover a portion of your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. After a hit-and-run, report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Be prepared to provide them with all the details of the accident, including the police report and any evidence you’ve gathered.
Choosing a Car Accident Attorney Personal Injury Case ValueRelated Videos
If the responsible driver is not found, your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may help cover the costs of your injuries and damage. It’s important to review your policy and understand whether you have UM coverage and what it covers. If you don’t have UM coverage, this is a good time to consider adding it for future protection.
Understand Your Legal Rights
Florida law provides certain protections for victims of hit-and-run accidents. If the at-fault driver is caught, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim against them for additional compensation beyond what your insurance can cover. This could include compensation for pain and suffering, long-term medical treatment, lost earning potential, and other related damages.
If the responsible driver cannot be found, your rights are still protected through your insurance. However, pursuing an uninsured motorist claim can sometimes be challenging, and insurance companies may try to minimize the payout. This is why having an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential.
Serious Results
Consult with an Experienced Attorney
If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, consulting with a skilled personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. A lawyer with experience in Florida’s hit-and-run laws can handle the complicated paperwork, negotiate with your insurance company, and even represent you in court if necessary.
At Victory Law Firm P.A., our team is dedicated to helping Florida residents protect their rights after accidents like hit-and-runs. We offer free consultations to help you understand your legal options and guide you through every step of the claims process.
File a Lawsuit if Necessary
In some cases, it may be necessary to pursue a lawsuit to recover damages, especially if the hit-and-run driver is never found or if your insurance company denies your claim. Your attorney can help you file a lawsuit against the uninsured driver or your insurance company, seeking compensation for your injuries and other damages.
Florida has a statute of limitations on personal injury claims, so it’s crucial to take legal action as soon as possible. Typically, you have four years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Florida, but in some cases, this period may be shorter. An attorney will help you understand the timelines and make sure all deadlines are met.
Don’t Wait—Consult an Attorney Today
After a hit-and-run accident in Florida, the clock is ticking. The sooner you get in touch with an experienced personal injury attorney, the better your chances of recovering the compensation you need. At Victory Law Firm P.A., we understand how overwhelming these accidents can be, and we are committed to fighting for the justice you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, don’t wait. Contact Victory Law Firm P.A. today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you protect your rights and get the compensation you deserve.