Charles County Car Accidents: Hit and Run Accidents in Maryland

Hit and run accidents in Maryland, as in other states, involve a driver causing an accident and subsequently fleeing the scene without providing aid or identifying information. These incidents can range from minor collisions to severe crashes resulting in significant property damage, injuries, or even fatalities.

The hit and run phenomenon is not only a legal concern but also a public safety issue, as it leaves victims without immediate assistance and complicates legal and insurance processes. That is why comprehensive legal support from personal injury lawyers in Charles County, MD to those injured in a hit and run in Maryland is vital.

Hit and Run Laws in Maryland

Under Maryland Transportation Code Section 20-102, a driver involved in an accident resulting in bodily injury, death, or property damage must immediately stop their vehicle at the scene or as close as possible without obstructing traffic. The law mandates that the driver remain at the scene until they have fulfilled the requirements set forth in Sections 20-104 and 20-105.

Drivers involved in an accident should render reasonable assistance to any injured person, including transporting or arranging transportation for medical treatment if necessary. Additionally, the driver must provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number to the other party involved in the accident, and show their driver’s license upon request.

If an accident results in injury, death, or property damage, drivers must report the incident to the nearest police authority under Section 20-107. This is crucial in hit and run cases where the fleeing driver fails to report.

Penalties for Hit and Run in Maryland

The penalties for violating hit and run laws in Maryland are severe and escalate based on the severity of the accident:

• Property Damage: If the accident results only in property damage, leaving the scene can lead to misdemeanor charges, with penalties including fines and potential jail time.
• Injury or Death: If the accident involves bodily injury or death, the penalties become more severe. According to law, leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death can result in felony charges, significant fines, and lengthy prison sentences.
• Driver’s License Sanctions: Beyond criminal penalties, drivers convicted of hit and run may also face administrative penalties, including license suspension or revocation.

Victims should report the incident to the police immediately and consider consulting with  Waldorf car accident lawyers to understand their options for seeking compensation and justice.

What to Do After a Hit and Run in Maryland

After the accident, immediate steps are crucial for your safety, legal rights, and the potential recovery of damages.

1. Get Medical Help: If you are hurt, go to a doctor right away. Even if you feel okay, some injuries might not show up immediately.
2. Call the Police: Report the accident to the police quickly. They will make a report, which is important for insurance and legal reasons. In Maryland, it is a must to report accidents that cause injury, death, or a lot of property damage.
3. Collect Evidence: If you can and it is safe, take photos of the accident scene, your car, and any injuries. Try to get contact details from anyone who saw what happened.
4. Tell Your Insurance Company: Let your insurance know about the accident soon. But be careful with what you say and don’t admit fault before talking to a lawyer.
5. Write Down What Happened: Keep track of your injuries and any treatment you get. Also, note down any damage to your car and belongings.
6. Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer: Think about getting advice from a lawyer who knows about hit and run cases in Maryland. They can guide you on insurance claims and legal action.

Personal injury lawyers in Charles County, MD understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll hit and run accident injuries can take. With their help, victims may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Our Team at the Law Office of Robert Castro Can Help You

Hit and run accidents are a distressing reality in Maryland, posing challenges that extend beyond the immediate aftermath of the incident. The Law Office of Robert Castro, with our Waldorf car accident lawyers, stands as a bastion of legal support for those affected by such unfortunate events. Our dedication to securing justice and fair compensation for our clients exemplifies our role as a leading personal injury law firm in Charles County.

For anyone affected by a hit and run in Maryland, contact us today for a consultation. We offer not just legal representation, but a path toward healing and justice.