Hit-And-Run Accidents

Hit & Run Accident Attorney In Glendale, AZ

A hit-and-run accident can be heartbreaking, both physically and financially. In this situation, one party leaves the scene of an incident without providing details like name or license plate number. When a reckless driver decides to escape after creating damage to you and your vehicle, it becomes exponentially harder for you to achieve optimal healing outcomes.

If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Arizona, don’t hesitate to seek help from an experienced Glendale hit-and-run accident attorney. You deserve legal representation that will fight for your rights and ensure you receive compensation for any injuries sustained due to negligence. We understand how frustrating it can be when another driver deserts you following a car accident; however, there are options available and we want to assist. Reach out now by calling Klink Law, PLLC today—we offer free consultations so that we may discuss your next steps together.

What Should You Do After a Hit-and-Run Crash In Arizona?

Following an auto accident, all involved drivers must immediately stop and determine if emergency medical attention is needed. It’s also necessary to exchange contact information such as names, addresses, registration numbers, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details with the other person or persons. In the event of someone fleeing from the scene:

Call 911

As soon as possible after an accident, it’s essential to contact the police. They will likely begin looking for the other driver involved upon hearing about your incident.

Take Photos

Gather all the evidence you can from your car crash scene by taking pictures with your smartphone. Snap a picture of the other vehicle before it leaves, if possible. Photograph your own car as well and capture details like road signs, lane markings, bits of debris, or tire/skid marks that could be beneficial in court later on.

Get Witness Information

It is essential to obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses who may have seen the accident. These individuals can serve as invaluable character references in preparation for any potential legal proceedings that might arise from this incident, while also potentially providing more details about the other driver involved.

Get Medical Attention

Even if you don’t experience any physical pain, it is essential to visit a medical professional after being in a car accident. A doctor can detect hidden injuries and start treatment instantly, which will be beneficial for filing any claims related to the accident later on. Promptly documenting your health issues following an incident could prove invaluable when attempting to make a hit-and-run claim as well.

Notify Your Insurance Company

If you find yourself in an auto accident, always notify your insurance company first. If the other driver is caught and their insurance company contacts you, do not speak with them about the accident unless you have a lawyer present. You can refer them to your Glendale hit-and-run accident attorney instead.

Common Reasons Why Hit & Run Drivers Don’t Stop

Astonishingly, more than one hit-and-run car accident takes place in the U.S. every minute. In fact, of all pedestrian fatalities over the past decade, a staggering 20% were due to such accidents. You may be curious as to why someone would drive away from an auto incident like this. Some of the more common reasons for hit-and-run accidents in Arizona include:

• Lack of insurance – uninsured or underinsured drivers
• Suspended driver’s license or no license
• Driver has too many tickets
• Driver might not have permission to be using the vehicle they are driving
• Driving while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
• On probation for other criminal conduct, including having a warrant out for their arrest
• Driving a company car and does not want to suffer consequences at work

Are you the victim of a hit-and-run driver? Our Glendale hit-and-run accident lawyer is here to provide assistance in seeking justice. In many cases, those at fault for these types of accidents will be ordered by the court to pay punitive damages – an additional penalty due to their neglectful actions towards others. Even if we cannot find or identify who is responsible, there may still be means available to help you recover financially through your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage or uninsured/underinsured motorist policy. Let us navigate this difficult time together and get what’s rightfully yours!

Hit and Run Charges in Arizona

Depending on the facts of each case, drivers who disregard their duties by leaving the scene of an accident without reporting it can be subject to punishments ranging from fines and citations to more serious legal ramifications. Possible sanctions for such actions include:

Failing To Render Aid/Provide Information

Ignoring the need to give assistance or details subsequent to a collision can result in grave consequences – Class 3 misdemeanors, with potential fines and even up to 30 days imprisonment.

Parked Vehicles/Non-Vehicle Property

Drivers who leave the scene after hitting a parked vehicle or damaging property other than a vehicle (such as a mailbox), and who fail to locate the owner or leave a note providing their information, may also face Class 3 misdemeanor charges.

Damage To A Vehicle

Under ARS 28-662, if your mishap includes only damage to another vehicle and no physical injuries, you must stop at the scene or immediately return there in case of inability. Additionally, when it is necessary, provide information as well as assistance. Fleeing from an accident with damaged vehicles constitutes a Class 2 misdemeanor – this violation can result in hefty fines and four months imprisonment max!