Hit and Run Accident Attorneys

Our Experienced Hit-and Run Accident Attorneys Help Hit-and-Run Victims Seek Appropriate Compensation For Their Injuries and Losses Throughout Florida

Hit and run accident victims face serious injuries and losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A hit and run accident scenario has insurance claim implications that can differ significantly from a regular automobile accident. The experienced hit and run accident attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law know the distinctions in these cases. We work closely with each client to develop a customized plan that addresses their unique needs, concerns, and goals while pursuing appropriate compensation for injuries and losses.

Hit and run traffic collisions are different from other motor vehicle accidents because the at-fault driver is often not identified. While an accident claim against a hit-and-run driver who was identified and located can involve significant evidence and claims against their insurance, cases in which the driver is not found will often involve Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claims and/or uninsured/underinsured motorist claims according to the applicable insurance policies. Our experienced motor vehicle accident lawyers can assess the right strategy for your unique hit and run case.

At Cohen and Cohen Law, we have over 50 years of experience representing hit-and-run accident victims throughout Florida. Our experienced attorneys understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that these devastating incidents can take on individuals and families. We maintain transparent communication with clients, providing regular updates and promptly answering questions with tailored guidance to meet a client’s specific situation.

Schedule a free consultation today with a hit and run lawyer at Cohen and Cohen Law by calling(800) 332-6436(800) 332-6436 or by filling out our online form. We offer flexible meeting options, including virtual consultations. Our Florida law firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning clients pay no fees unless they successfully recover compensation. Cohen and Cohen Law is dedicated to helping hit-and-run accident victims heal physically, financially, and emotionally through exceptional legal representation and compassionate care.

Key Takeaways

• Hit-and-run accidents can lead to severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens for victims and their families
• Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Florida have several options for seeking compensation, including Personal Injury Protection insurance (PIP), uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and pursuing claims against the at-fault driver if identified
• Hit-and-run accident victims in Florida only have two years to file a hit-and-run accident claim under Florida’s statute of limitations
• Cohen and Cohen Law offers free consultations to discuss the details of hit-and-run accident cases and help victims understand their legal rights and options

Common Injuries in Hit-and-Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering conditions that include many catastrophic injuries. The severity of the injuries often depends on factors such as the speed of the vehicles involved, the point of impact, and whether the victim was wearing a seatbelt or helmet.

Some common injuries sustained in hit-and-run accidents include:

• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Lacerations
• Contusions
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage
• Internal bleeding
• Death

Whiplash occurs when the head and neck are suddenly forced forward and then backward, causing strain on the neck muscles and ligaments. Fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, and skull, can occur due to the force of the impact or from being thrown from the vehicle.

More severe injuries from these traffic collisions may include traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord damage, and internal bleeding. Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions to severe, life-threatening conditions that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. It is important to seek medical attention following any head injury in order to seek an appropriate diagnosis. Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, dramatically altering the victim’s life.

Victims of hit-and-run accidents may also suffer from emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These psychological injuries can be just as debilitating as physical injuries and may require ongoing therapy and support. The experienced attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law understand the full scope of damages that hit-and-run accident victims may face. We work tirelessly to seek the compensation our clients need to recover and move forward with their lives.

Causes of Florida Hit-and-Run Car Accidents and Common Scenarios

Hit-and-run accidents in Florida occur due to various reasons, including distracted driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and reckless behavior behind the wheel. These incidents often led to severe injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma for the victims involved.

Some common scenarios that lead to hit-and-run accidents include:

Scenario	Description
Distracted Driving	Drivers who are texting while driving, using their phone, or otherwise not paying attention to the road may cause an accident and flee the scene.
Driving Under the Influence	Intoxicated drivers may cause an accident and leave the scene to avoid arrest or legal consequences.
Reckless Driving	Speeding, aggressive driving, or failing to obey traffic laws can lead to hit-and-run accidents.

In many cases, hit-and-run drivers flee the scene of a traffic collision because they lack valid insurance, have a suspended license, or fear the legal repercussions of their actions. They may have been driving over the speed limit, driving under the influence of alcohol, or engaging in distracted driving. This leaves victims facing the challenges of seeking compensation for their injuries and damages without the responsible party’s insurance information.

Regardless of the cause, hit-and-run accidents can have a devastating impact on the lives of those involved. Victims may suffer from severe physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens related to medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.

What To Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Florida

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Florida, it is essential to take immediate action to protect your health, safety, and legal rights. The first priority should be to seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor, as some symptoms may not appear until later.

Next, report the accident to the police and provide them with as much information as possible about the fleeing vehicle and driver. This may include the make, model, color, and license plate number of the car, as well as a description of the driver if you were able to see them. Gather contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident occur.

Document the scene of the accident by taking photos of any damage to your vehicle, the surrounding area, and your injuries. Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, expenses, and any time missed from work due to the accident.

These steps will help build a strong case when seeking compensation for your damages:

• Seek medical attention for any injuries
• Report the accident to the police
• Gather information about the fleeing vehicle and driver
• Collect contact information from witnesses
• Document the accident scene with photos
• Keep detailed records of medical treatment, expenses, and lost wages

Finally, contact an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney to discuss your case. Our hit and run accident attorneys can help you navigate the legal process, communicate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you need for your injuries and losses. Our law firm is based in Hollywood and serves clients throughout Florida.

Understanding Who Pays for Damages Related to Medical Expenses, Vehicle Repairs, and Other Losses After a Hit-and-Run in Florida

In Florida, victims of hit-and-run accidents may face challenges when seeking compensation for their injuries and losses, as the at-fault driver has fled the scene. However, there are several options available to help cover the costs of medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other damages. These options depend on the victim’s insurance coverage and the specific circumstances of the accident.

One potential source of compensation is the victim’s own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which is required for all Florida drivers. PIP coverage provides benefits for medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault in the accident. However, PIP coverage is limited and may not be sufficient to cover all of the hit-and-run victim’s losses.

Other potential options to seek compensation can depend heavily upon whether the at-fault driver is found:

• If the hit-and-run driver is eventually identified and apprehended, their insurance company may be responsible for covering the victim’s damages.
• In cases where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, the victim’s Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can help bridge the gap and provide additional compensation.

When dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident, it is crucial to consult with an experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer. At Cohen and Cohen, we can help victims understand their legal rights, navigate the complex insurance claims process, and pursue all available avenues for securing the compensation they need to cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, and other losses.

What is the Statute of Limitations for a Hit-and-Run Accident Claim in Florida?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including those related to hit-and-run accidents, is generally two years from the date of the incident. This means that hit-and-run accident victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver or their insurance company. It is crucial for hit-and-run accident victims to be aware of this time limit, as failing to file a claim within the statute of limitations can lead to losing the right to seek compensation for their injuries and losses.

To protect their rights and to avoid undermining their ability to pursue the compensation they need, hit-and-run accident victims should:

• Seek medical attention for their injuries as soon as possible
• Report the accident to the police and provide any information about the fleeing driver
• Document the accident scene, their injuries, and any damages to their vehicle
• Contact an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney to discuss their case and legal options

The knowledgeable lawyers at Cohen and Cohen Law understand the complexities of hit-and-run accident cases and the importance of acting quickly to protect clients’ rights. We work diligently to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build strong cases to help accident victims seek the compensation they need to recover from their injuries and move forward with their lives.

Types of Compensation You May Be Able to Seek Following a Florida Hit-and-Run Accident

Victims of hit-and-run accidents in Florida may be able to pursue various types of compensation for their injuries, losses, and damages. These may include economic damages, such as medical expenses, physical therapy, lost wages, and property damage, as well as non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

In cases where the hit-and-run driver’s conduct was particularly egregious or reckless, the victim may also be able to seek punitive damages. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault driver and deter similar behavior in the future.

Our experienced attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law work closely with clients to assess the full extent of their damages and build strong cases to pursue the maximum compensation available under the law. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that hit-and-run accidents can take on victims and their families, and we fight tirelessly to protect our clients’ rights and interests.

By consulting with a knowledgeable hit-and-run accident attorney, victims can gain a better understanding of the types of compensation they may be able to seek and the steps they need to take to pursue the financial resources they need to recover and move forward with their lives.

Insurance Claims Following a Hit-and-Run in Florida

Navigating insurance claims after a hit-and-run accident in Florida can be a complex and challenging process. Victims may need to rely on their own insurance coverage, such as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, to help cover their medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. The experienced attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law can help clients understand their insurance policies and the claims process.

In some cases, the hit-and-run driver may be identified and apprehended, allowing victims to pursue an auto accident claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, even in these situations, insurance companies may attempt to minimize or deny valid claims, making it essential for victims to have strong legal representation on their side.

Our attorneys at Cohen and Cohen work diligently to gather evidence, build strong cases, and negotiate with insurance companies to seek the maximum compensation available for our clients under the law. We understand the tactics that insurance companies may use to reduce or deny claims, and we fight tirelessly to protect our clients’ rights and interests throughout the claims process.

By consulting with a knowledgeable hit-and-run accident lawyer, victims can gain a better understanding of their insurance coverage, the claims process, and the steps they need to take to pursue the financial resources they need to recover from their injuries and losses. Our attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law are committed to providing personalized, compassionate representation to help clients navigate the complex insurance claims process and pursue positive resolutions for their cases.

Florida Hit and Run Laws and Penalties

As noted earlier, a driver responsible for a hit-and-run accident may be avoiding legal consequences of their carelessness. However, doing so may add to their troubles. As the plaintiff in a hit-and-run accident claim, your injury case is separate from the potential criminal case against the defendant if they are found.

Florida law requires drivers involved in accidents to stop at the scene, provide their contact and insurance information, and render aid if necessary. Failing to do so constitutes a hit-and-run, which is a serious criminal offense. The severity of the charges and penalties for a hit-and-run depends on the circumstances of the accident and the extent of the injuries or property damage caused:

• If a hit-and-run accident only causes property damage, the offender may face second-degree misdemeanor charges, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
• When a hit-and-run accident leads to injuries, the charges escalate to a second or third-degree felony, carrying more severe penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.
• In cases where a hit-and-run accident causes fatalities, the offender may face first-degree felony charges, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Additionally, a conviction for a felony hit-and-run offense can lead to the revocation of the offender’s driver’s license. While a felony verdict for the criminal charge might bring some degree of justice, the surviving family members should discuss bringing a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver if that driver is located.

The experienced attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law are well-versed in Florida’s hit-and-run laws and work diligently to protect the rights of accident victims. We help clients navigate the legal system, gather evidence, and build strong cases to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.p

How an Experienced Florida Hit-and-Run Attorney from Cohen and Cohen Law Can Help

The experienced hit-and-run accident attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law understand the challenges that victims face in the aftermath of these devastating incidents. We provide personalized, compassionate representation to help hit and run accident victims throughout Florida navigate the complex legal process and pursue the compensation they need for their injuries and losses.

It is possible the driver was drunk driving, speeding, drowsy driving, texting while driving, talking on a mobile phone, or driving with other distractions, breaching their duty of care to ensure the safety of other drivers and any pedestrians or bicyclists in the vicinity. Proving such negligence positions the plaintiff well to then demonstrate causation for the accident, connecting the carelessness to the damages the injury victim has suffered. Our lawyers at Cohen and Cohen work tirelessly to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build strong cases on behalf of our clients. We handle all aspects of the legal process, including:

• Communicating with insurance companies
• Negotiating settlements
• Representing clients in court, if necessary

Our attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law fight to hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the maximum compensation that may be available for Florida hit-and-run accident victims. By working with an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney, victims can focus on their physical and emotional recovery while their legal team handles the complex and often stressful legal process. Our law firm’s lawyers provide regular updates and maintain open communication with their clients, ensuring that they are informed and involved every step of the way.

Schedule a Free Consultation with Cohen and Cohen Law to Discuss Your Hit-and-Run Claim

Individuals involved in hit and run accidents often experience a range of serious repercussions, such as injuries, financial losses, and emotional distress. These incidents also present unique insurance claim considerations that may vary greatly compared to typical car accidents.

If you have been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Florida, it is essential to seek the guidance of an experienced hit and run attorney. Cohen and Cohen Law offers free consultations to discuss the details of your case and help you understand your legal rights and options. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that hit-and-run accidents can take on victims and their families.

We are dedicated to providing personalized, accessible representation to help you navigate the complex legal process and seek the compensation you need for your injuries and losses. With over 50 years of experience serving Florida, Cohen and Cohen Law works tirelessly to investigate an accident, gather evidence, and build strong cases to hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue fair compensation.

Schedule your free consultation with the experienced hit-and-run accident attorneys at Cohen and Cohen Law today by calling (800) 332-6436(800) 332-6436 or filling out our online form. We are dedicated to helping hit-and-run accident victims heal physically, financially, and emotionally through exceptional legal representation and compassionate care.

Experience Matters — Serving Florida for Over 50 Years

Frequently Asked Questions about Hit-and-Run Accident Cases in Florida

What should I do if I’m involved in a hit-and-run accident in Florida?

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, the first step is to contact law enforcement immediately and file a police report. Gather as much information as possible about the other vehicle, such as the license plate number, make, model, and any identifying features, and provide this to the police.

It is also crucial to seek medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident, even if they seem minor at first. Keep detailed records of all medical treatment and any expenses incurred due to the accident.

Contact your insurance company to report the incident and discuss your coverage options. If the driver is identified, their insurance may be responsible for covering your damages. However, if the driver remains unidentified, you may need to rely on your own uninsured motorist coverage.Consider consulting with a personal injury attorney who has experience handling hit-and-run cases. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the legal process, communicate with insurance companies, and seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

Lastly, if you have any information that could help identify the hit-and-run driver, such as witness statements or surveillance footage, provide this to the police to aid in their investigation. By taking these steps, you can protect your rights and increase your ability to pursue the compensation you need after a hit-and-run accident.

How can an attorney help me after a hit-and-run accident in Florida?

An attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process after a hit-and-run accident, working to identify the responsible party and seek compensation for your injuries and damages. A skilled attorney will gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if necessary, fighting for the justice and financial recovery you need.

What types of compensation can I seek after a Florida hit-and-run accident?

After a hit-and-run accident in Florida, victims may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the hit-and-run driver for their reckless behavior and deter others from committing similar acts.

Who pays for damages after a hit-and-run accident in Florida?

In Florida, if you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident and the driver cannot be located, your own insurance company may cover the damages through your uninsured motorist coverage. However, if the hit-and-run driver is identified, their driver or their insurance company may be held liable for the damages caused.

It’s crucial to report the accident to the police immediately and gather as much evidence as possible, such as witness statements and surveillance footage, in order to increase the chances of identifying the hit-and-run driver. An experienced Florida hit-and-run accident attorney can assess the details in your unique case.

What is the statute of limitations for hit-and-run claims in Florida?

The statute of limitations for hit-and-run claims in Florida is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, it is crucial to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights and to avoid missing any important deadlines.