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Hit-and-Run Car Accidents in Waldorf MD

By Law Office of Robert Castro, P.A.
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A hit and run car accident can have drastic consequences. Your car might be at a total loss even if you are not severely injured.

What is worse? The culprit could have run off with his vehicle soon after the hit to escape facing the consequences.

Even though it is illegal to do a hit-and-run, many drivers still manage to get away with it. Here is everything you need to know about what to do in a hit and run car accident.

When is an Accident Called a Hit-and-Run?

An accident is a hit and run when the driver causes damage — whether to property or personal injury — and flees the scene immediately after the hit. Depending on the state’s laws, serious charges, license revocation, or even getting sentenced to a significant time in jail.

Have your own Maryland hit and run defense if you got involved in a hit and run accident.

Hit and Run Laws in Waldorf MD

Following are the hit and run laws in Maryland you should know about to avoid any confusion in such cases.

  • The law requires the driver to stop and inspect the victim for injury and possible compensation.
  • There are strict penalties by law for people who flee the scene after causing damage, whether it be a personal injury or property damage.
  • If caught and convicted by Maryland law, the driver must pay a fee of $5,000.
  • The conviction may result in up to 5 years in prison.
  • Revocation of driving privileges for drivers who flee the scene.
  • Fleeing the scene may result in 60 days in jail for the driver.
  • Adds eight points to the driver’s license in case of property damage.
  • The driver must pay compensation for the injuries of the victim.

A hit and run accident lawyer Waldorf MD can guide you about how to get compensation for the damages incurred by the hit and run accident.

Reasons Why Drivers Leave the Scene

Even though things could get worse if a person who caused the hit and run accident flees the scene instead of facing it, some would still leave the scene for some reasons. Here are a few reasons why drivers leave the scene:

  • The driver may be driving the vehicle without permission – a stolen vehicle, perhaps.
  • The driver may be driving an employer-owned vehicle and not want to cause more trouble.
  • The driver might have other crimes committed, so he may not want to risk getting caught by the authorities.
  • The driver may be an immigrant and living in the country illegally.
  • The driver might possess a commercial driving license that he cannot risk losing. An official could withhold a driver’s commercial driving license for a year if involved in an accident.
  • If the injuries to the other party are severe, the driver may leave the scene to avoid a criminal conviction or a criminal record.

How to Handle a Hit and Run Accident?

Here’s how you should handle a hit and run car accident immediately:

  • If you got hit, stay calm. Regain your senses and ensure if some wounds or injuries require immediate medical attention.
  • Notice the specifics on the other vehicle; anything you can memorize. It should be your priority since most drivers leave after causing the accident.
  • Gather any witnesses for further aid in your case.
  • Call the local authority to report a hit and run Maryland accident.

Being the victim in a hit and run situation can be perplexing, but here are some steps you must also take:

  • Get the proper medical attention you need after being in an accident.
  • Take some time off work to recover.
  • Have the insurance company handle the damage to your vehicle, if any.
  • Hire an accident injury lawyer Waldorf MD.
  • Consult with your hit and run auto accident attorney MD for further steps you should take.

Common Hit and Run Injuries

The following are the common hit and run injuries;

  • Back injuries may take a long time to recover.
  • There may also be some serious spinal injuries.
  • There may be a lot of sprains.
  • Fractured vertebrae and herniated discs.

How Can The Attorney Help Your Case?

If you have been in a car accident, you should contact an accident injury lawyer at the Law Office of Robert Castro PI in Waldorf, MD, as soon as possible. We will make sure you get maximum compensation for all your damages.

Having a hit and run accident lawyer Waldorf MD can help you get higher compensation than average due to the lawyer’s efficiency and handling of the case. Call us and have your appointment set now!

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