Throughout Boston, hit and run accidents take many different forms. Often, drivers of motor vehicles hit a pedestrian and continue to drive, hoping to attempt to avoid liability. In other cases, one vehicle strikes another and flees the scene without stopping to provide help or exchange information. In most circumstances, hit and run collisions leave victims scared, facing property damage and potentially life-altering injuries. However, there are steps to take that will help victims secure compensation for their damages and injuries resulting from the accident.Hit and run accidents carry potential criminal and civil penalties for those who have caused the collision and left the scene of the accident. Massachusetts law requires drivers to provide information to injured individuals before leaving the scene of the accident. According to law, there are different crimes associated with hit and run collisions, depending on whether property damage, personal injuries, or death resulted from the crash.
According to the statute, there is an affirmative duty to those who operate motor vehicles. Failing to stop after a collision can bring dire consequences. Following a crash, or even a minor collision, the driver must stop and provide information to everyone. In fact, both parties involved in the accident have a legal obligation to remain at the scene and to ensure that if anyone requires assistance and medical care, they receive it.
While hit and run collisions can result in property damage, in other cases, they can render victims catastrophically injured. Massachusetts law provides a remedy for those hurt in a Boston hit and run accident. Victims can file a personal injury claim or a lawsuit that holds offending drivers accountable for their recklessness. As plaintiffs in personal injury claims, victims can recover costs of medical treatment, lost wages for work, and emotional pain and suffering associated with the accident. In some cases, the victim may also recover punitive damages as a form of punishment for the driver who left the scene.
If the hit and run driver cannot be located or identified, the accident victim may be entitled to file an uninsured motorist claim. Through the victim’s own insurance company, the injured individual would seek damages for property damage or personal injuries. Uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage can help pay for injuries caused by hit and run accidents. Uninsured motorist property damage coverage typically covers damage to a struck car. It is important to report the accident to police immediately and to provide information to your own insurance company within 24 hours of the accident.
After suffering injuries in a hit and run accident or another motor vehicle collision, Boston car accident attorney Michael O. Smith can assist. Since Mr. Smith only represents injured individuals, he protects their rights as they hold at-fault parties accountable. Throughout the Commonwealth, he has helped people by providing free, no-obligation consultations. Call our office today at (617) 263-0060 or complete an online form to learn more about your legal rights and options.