Forsyth County Hit and Run Car Accident Lawyers
Leaving the scene of a Forsyth County accident is generally considered illegal. Despite that fact, it is not uncommon for drivers to flee the scene after negligently injuring another person in a car wreck. If you suffered an injury and the responsible party fled the scene, you could benefit from the counsel of a Forsyth County hit and run car accident lawyer.
Through a thorough investigation, a detail-oriented car accident lawyer could identify the party that hit you and initiate a lawsuit against them. If successful, you could recover monetary compensation for your injuries.
When is it Illegal to Leave the Scene of an Accident in Forsyth County?
The requirements of a driver following a Forsyth County vehicle accident can vary. For example, if a driver strikes a parked car, the law does not require that they wait for the owner to arrive before leaving. However, they must leave a note with their contact information before leaving the scene.
On the other hand, a driver must remain on the scene after a collision that results in significant property damage or any bodily injuries. A person is only free to leave after law enforcement arrives and conducts their interviews. A failure to comply with the rules on leaving the scene of an accident can have both civil and criminal consequences.
Criminal Consequences
Leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in an injury is a criminal offense in Georgia. While the charge is a misdemeanor, fleeing the scene after a fatal car accident could result in a felony conviction.
Civil Consequences
Separate from any criminal ramifications for leaving the scene of an accident, a negligent driver could face consequences in a civil case. A Forsyth County hit and run accident lawyer could file a lawsuit against a driver once they discover their identity. In addition to the standard damages in an injury lawsuit, someone who fled the scene of an accident could also face punitive damages.
What Damages Are Available in a Hit and Run Accident?
There is a wide array of potential damages available in a hit and run crash lawsuit. While the discussion of damages typically focuses on physical injury, there are other damages available in certain situations. These damages often include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
Medical Bills
An injury victim’s medical bills are frequently the largest expense following a hit and run accident. Injuries sustained during a car crash can be severe. When they result in significant medical bills, a person has the right to seek compensation for the cost of the bills from the responsible driver.
Lost Wages
When a plaintiff is forced to miss work due to injury, they may seek to recover those lost paychecks from the responsible driver. This can also include compensation for lost future wages if a person is unable to return to their previous job.
Pain and Suffering
A plaintiff may also seek compensation for the physical pain they endured due to the accident. While it can be challenging to assign a value to a claim for pain and suffering, an attorney can help clearly illustrate the effects the injuries had on a person’s life.
Punitive Damages
Because leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, punitive damages, which are meant to punish a responsible party’s egregious behavior, could be available. However, it is important to note that it is rare for a Forsyth County jury to award these damages.
Contact a Forsyth County Hit and Run Accident Lawyer
A Forsyth County hit and run car accident lawyer may be able to track down the person that hit you and hold them accountable. To learn how an attorney can help, call today for a free consultation to discuss your options.
