Hit-and-run accidents are distressingly common in Atlanta, leaving victims to deal with mounting medical bills, lost wages, and emotional trauma without the responsible party present. At Issa & Castro Law Firm, our Atlanta accident lawyer for hit and run cases will stand by you every step of the way and explore all possible legal avenues for your compensation.
Georgia Laws for Hit and Run Cases
Under Georgia law, O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270, drivers involved in accidents resulting in injury, death, or property damage are legally obligated to stop at the scene, provide their information, and render aid if necessary. Failure to do so constitutes a hit-and-run offense. Penalties vary based on the severity and frequency of the offense.
Criminal Penalties
- First Offense: Misdemeanor with fines between $300 and $1,000, and/or imprisonment up to 12 months.
- Second Offense (within five years): Misdemeanor with fines between $600 and $1,000, and/or imprisonment up to 12 months.
- Third or Subsequent Offense (within five years): Misdemeanor with a $1,000 fine and/or imprisonment up to 12 months.
- If the accident results in serious injury or death: Felony with imprisonment ranging from 1 to 5 years.
Civil Claim Damages
In a civil case, if the hit-and-run driver is identified, they can be held legally responsible for covering a wide range of the victim’s losses. This includes paying for medical expenses, lost income due to missed work, the emotional and physical pain the victim has endured, and any damage done to the victim’s vehicle or other property.
In hit and run cases, the courts also award punitive damages to the victims in personal injury lawsuits. This is extra compensation meant to punish the driver for the reckless decision to flee the scene and to create a deterrent.
Example Scenarios of Hit and Run Accidents in Atlanta
Pedestrian Struck in Crosswalk
A pedestrian legally crossing at a crosswalk is hit by a vehicle that fails to yield. The driver flees the scene, leaving the pedestrian with severe injuries and no immediate assistance.
Rear-End Collision on I-285
During heavy traffic on I-285, a driver rear-ends another vehicle and then quickly maneuvers through traffic to exit the highway, avoiding responsibility for the accident.
Cyclist Hit on Residential Street
A cyclist is sideswiped by a car on a quiet residential street. The driver speeds away without checking on the cyclist, who sustains multiple injuries.
Parked Car Damaged in Parking Lot
A driver backs into a parked car in a shopping center parking lot, causing significant damage. Instead of leaving contact information, the driver leaves the scene unnoticed.
What You Should Do After a Hit and Run Accident in Atlanta
At the Issa & Castro Law Firm, our experienced car accident attorney in Atlanta recommends that injured victims in hit and run cases take the following steps:
- Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries.
- Call 911: Report the accident immediately to law enforcement.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the damage, the surrounding area, and any debris from the scene of an accident.
- Gather Witness Information: If there are any witnesses that saw the other driver or vehicle, collect their contact details and statements.
- Note Vehicle Details: If possible, record the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, get a proper medical evaluation promptly.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the incident to your insurer as you may have to recover compensation through UM coverage.
- Consult Our Attorney: Call our Atlanta hit and run accident lawyer at the Issa & Castro Law Firm to assist you through the legal process.
Steps Our Atlanta Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Will Take to Try and Identify the Negligent Driver
The moment you sign up with the Issa & Castro Law Firm, our hit and run attorney in Atlanta will immediately move to take the following steps on your behalf:
- Collaborate with Law Enforcement: Work closely with police to obtain and review the official accident report.
- Gather Surveillance Footage: Collect video evidence from traffic cameras, nearby businesses, or residential security systems.
- Interview Witnesses: Speak with individuals who may have seen the accident or the fleeing vehicle.
- Inspect the Accident Scene: Look for physical evidence such as vehicle debris or skid marks that can provide clues.
- Check Local Repair Shops: Monitor auto repair shops for vehicles matching the description of the hit-and-run car.
- Public Appeals: Utilize media outlets to request information from the public, which can lead to identifying the driver.
Potential Avenues for Compensation Our Atlanta Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Will Explore if the At-Fault Driver is Not Found
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If you have UM coverage, your insurance company can compensate for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from the accident.
- Medical Payments (MedPay) Coverage: Insurance claims through this optional coverage can help pay for medical bills regardless of who is at fault.
- Collision Coverage: If you have collision insurance, you can seek compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle.
- Health Insurance: In a car accident involving hit and run, your health insurance policy may cover medical treatments related to the accident.
- Victim Compensation Programs: Explore state-funded programs that provide financial assistance to victims of crimes, including hit-and-run incidents.
Get Strong Legal Help for Hit and Run in Atlanta
At Issa & Castro Law Firm, we are committed to helping injured victims in hit and run cases. Our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyers will diligently investigate your case, explore all avenues for your fair compensation, and strongly advocate on your behalf every step of the way. To schedule your free consultation, call us at (404) 468-4000 or contact us online.
