Consequences of a Hit and Run in Orlando

You are driving down the streets of Orlando when suddenly, you feel a jolt. In a moment of panic, you realize you have collided with another vehicle. Your heart races as you contemplate your next move. Do you stay and face the consequences or flee the scene and hope no one notices? At JustCallMoe, we want to emphasize that leaving the scene of an accident, commonly known as a “hit and run,” can lead to severe legal ramifications in Orlando and throughout Florida.

Hit-and-Run Charges in Florida

In the state of Florida, leaving the scene of an accident without fulfilling certain legal obligations is a serious offense. These obligations include the following:

• Stopping your vehicle immediately at the scene of the accident or as close as possible without obstructing traffic.
• Providing your name, address, and vehicle registration number to the other parties involved.
• Showing your driver’s license to the other parties if requested.
• Rendering reasonable assistance to any injured persons.

Failure to adhere to these requirements can result in hit-and-run charges, the severity of which depends on the circumstances of the incident.

Property Damage vs. Injury or Death

The consequences of a hit and run in Orlando vary significantly based on whether the accident resulted in property damage only or injury or death to another person.

If the accident solely caused property damage, the offense is classified as a second-degree misdemeanor. If convicted, penalties can include up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. It is important to note that even if the damage appears minor, leaving the scene without providing the required information is still considered a hit-and-run and can result in criminal charges.

Additionally, failing to report the accident to the police can lead to further legal complications and hinder your ability to file an insurance claim for the damages.

However, if the accident resulted in injuries to another person, the hit-and-run charge escalates to a second or third-degree felony depending on the severity of the injuries. A second-degree felony hit-and-run conviction can lead to up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Additional Consequences Beyond Criminal Charges

Apart from criminal penalties, a hit-and-run conviction in Orlando can have far-reaching consequences on your personal and professional life.

License Suspension or Revocation

If convicted of a hit and run, your driver’s license may be suspended or revoked. The duration of the suspension depends on the severity of the offense and whether you have prior convictions. For property damages, your license can be suspended for up to one year. For injury or fatal hit and runs, the suspension can last three years or more, and you may be required to complete a driver improvement course before reinstating your license.

Civil Liability

In addition to criminal charges, you may face civil lawsuits from the parties involved in a hit-and-run in Florida. They can seek compensation for property damage, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other accident-related costs. Your auto insurance may not cover these damages if you fled the scene, leaving you personally responsible for potentially substantial financial liabilities.

Employment Consequences

A hit-and-run conviction on your record can hinder your employment prospects, especially if your job involves driving or requires a clean criminal history. Employers may view a hit-and-run as a sign of poor judgment and a lack of responsibility, making them hesitant to hire or retain you. If you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL), a hit-and-run conviction can lead to the disqualification of your CDL, jeopardizing your livelihood.

Increased Insurance Premiums

If your auto insurance provider learns of your hit-and-run conviction, they may view you as a high-risk driver and significantly increase your insurance premiums. In some cases, your insurer may even cancel your policy altogether, making it difficult and expensive to obtain coverage in the future.

What To Do if You Are Involved in a Hit-and-Run

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being involved in a hit-and-run accident in Orlando, either as the driver who fled or as the victim, it is crucial to seek legal guidance from an experienced attorney. At JustCallMoe, our skilled legal team has a deep understanding of Florida’s hit-and-run laws and can help you navigate the complex legal process.

If you were the driver who left the scene, it is essential to contact an Orlando hit-and-run attorney as soon as possible. Time is of the essence in these cases, and the longer you wait, the more challenging it can be to build a strong defense. We can assess your case, advise you on the best course of action to minimize the potential consequences, and guide you through the process of turning yourself in if necessary. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights, investigate any mitigating factors, and negotiate with prosecutors to seek a favorable outcome on your behalf.

If you were the victim of a hit-and-run, our team can provide invaluable assistance in several ways.

We can help you gather evidence, work with law enforcement to identify the responsible party, and ensure that your rights as a victim are protected throughout the legal process. Additionally, we can help you pursue any civil remedies available to secure the compensation you deserve for your damages, injuries, and emotional trauma. Our goal is to alleviate the burden of navigating the legal system alone and fight for the justice and support you need during this challenging time.

JustCallMoe for Legal Help in Orlando, Florida

Hit-and-run accidents are serious offenses in Orlando and throughout Florida, with potentially life-altering consequences. From criminal charges and license suspension to civil liability and employment difficulties, the ramifications of fleeing the scene of an accident can be severe and long-lasting.

At JustCallMoe Injury and Accident Attorneys, we strongly advise all drivers to remain at the scene of an accident, fulfill their legal obligations, and seek professional legal counsel if needed. Doing so can protect your rights, minimize potential consequences, and ensure that justice is served. Remember, when facing the challenges of a hit-and-run incident in Orlando, do not hesitate to JustCallMoe for the experienced legal representation you need.