Hit and Run Accident Lawyer in Tampa

Hit-and-run accidents throughout Tampa are disproportionately high. Heavy truck and commuter traffic, mixed with high tourism and booming construction, all contribute to higher accident rates in the city. And every motorist has their own reason for failing to live up to their legal and ethical responsibilities after causing a traffic accident. If you’ve been injured by a driver who hits and runs, you need the professional legal representation of our experienced Tampa hit and run accident lawyers at Jeeves Law Group in your corner.

Prime Reasons for Leaving the Scene of a Car Accident

No two car accidents are alike, but many motorists who don’t remain on the scene following a collision are motivated by factors like the following:

• They panic, which is not a valid excuse. Motorists accept an immense responsibility to the safety of others on the road, and there is no room in this equation for fleeing the scene of an accident.
• They are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which leaves them more likely to cause accidents in the first place.
• They don’t have a driver’s license or lack the required insurance coverage.
• There is a warrant out for their arrest.

Regardless of the reason, drivers who do not pull over following an accident are in the wrong.

Technological Advances Increase the Chances of Identifying Hit and Run Drivers

In the past, identifying hit and run drivers was generally a lost cause. Modern technological advances, however, are helping to change that. Evidence like the following can help you hold a driver who fled the scene of the accident that caused you to be injured responsible for your legal damages:

• The testimony of and the photos and videos captured by eyewitnesses
• Footage from dashcams, security cameras, and traffic cameras
• Accident reconstruction models that can help identify the kind of vehicle involved
• Physical evidence, such as skid marks and paint transfer from vehicle to vehicle

Turning to Your Own Uninsured Motorist Insurance Coverage

If the at-fault driver cannot be located, you can turn to your own uninsured motorist (UM) insurance coverage. And your claim will proceed very much as a car accident claim against the negligent motorist would have.

While motorists in Florida are not required to carry UM coverage, insurance providers must offer it when issuing policies. To reject UM insurance, you must do so in writing, which means you likely have coverage. By filing a claim against your policy, you can seek compensation for your full range of losses. And having a knowledgeable hit and run accident attorney backing you up from the start is always advised.