What Happens if a Hit-and-Run Driver Turns Themself In?
Being in an automobile accident can be terrifying, and depending on how severe it is, such an incident can quickly result in catastrophic injuries and even death. Figuring out what to do in the aftermath of a crash is an overwhelming task, especially with emotions running high alongside the presence of serious injuries. Depending on the details of your crash and the fault laws of the state where you live, you may be able to file a claim to recover financial compensation for the damages you suffered.
In Nevada, a modified contributory negligence system is followed. In this state, you are able to legally recover your damages through a lawsuit as long as you were not 51% or more responsible for causing the crash. Having to think of the work involved to obtain compensation after any type of collision can feel like a daunting job. This is true when the other drivers involved in your crash are present at the scene, but it can feel even more upsetting if the driver that caused your collision has fled the area.
What to Do When a Hit-And-Run Driver Turns Themselves in
Hit-and-run accidents do not always produce devastating and life-altering injuries or death, but like any accident, they have the potential to be devastating. These incidents happen with higher frequency than many think, and in fact, approximately every 43 seconds a hit-and-run crash happens in the United States, according to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
Victims of such incidents may find great luck with the authorities who are able to track down and identify a driver that unlawfully flees the scene. This is not always the case, however, and there are many incidents of hit-and-run collisions where the driver is never found. Then, there are those rare occasions where a driver panics and drives away from a crash but later realizes that the best thing to do is to turn themselves over to the authorities.
In these situations, it is highly likely that the hit-and-run driver will face criminal penalties for the violations of the law they committed. While criminal punishment may help a victim feel as though justice is being served, a criminal case does not generally yield enough financial compensation to fully cover their losses.
Filing a civil suit against the hit-and-run driver is one option, but understanding your rights and what your claim could be worth after such an incident is something that an experienced attorney should handle. In Nevada, the Las Vegas car accident attorney at the Aaron Law Group can examine your accident and determine how much you should be demanding in a legal suit.
Speak with a Las Vegas Personal Injury Attorney Today
When a hit-and-run incident is fatal, family members may be able to file a Nevada wrongful death suit for compensation. By contrast, when only injuries are sustained, a Nevada personal injury suit is appropriate. For more information on how you can secure compensation after a car accident in Las Vegas, Nevada, please call the Nevada personal injury attorney at the Aaron Law Group to schedule a free consultation at (702) 550-1111 today.
