Hit-and-Run Car Accident Lawyer in Ohio

In Ohio, individuals involved in an auto accident are legally required to remain at the scene. If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Ohio, contact us today!

The experienced hit-and-run accident lawyers at Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, are dedicated to helping victims throughout Ohio secure the full and fair compensation they deserve. We are standing by to make sure you know your full legal rights and options. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation with a skilled Ohio car accident lawyer.

Why Do Drivers Leave the Scene Of Car Accidents?

There are many reasons a driver may choose to leave the scene after being involved in an auto accident. For example, they may fear arrest if they are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. They may also fear legal consequences if they were driving without a valid license or were operating a stolen vehicle.

How Is a Hit-and-Run Defined in Ohio? What are the Penalties?

Again, Ohio law requires all drivers involved in an accident to remain at the scene. Specifically, the governing statute provides as follows:

In the case of a motor vehicle accident or collision with persons or property on a public road or highway, the operator of the motor vehicle, having knowledge of the accident or collision, immediately shall stop the operator’s motor vehicle at the scene of the accident or collision. The operator shall remain at the scene of the accident or collision until the operator has given the operator’s name and address and, if the operator is not the owner, the name and address of the owner of that motor vehicle, together with the registered number of that motor vehicle [to all relevant parties].

Failure to stop after an accident is considered a misdemeanor in the first degree. Penalties start at up to six months in jail and fines of up to $1,000.

However, if anyone suffers serious injury or death due to the accident, the hit-and-run charge is upgraded to a felony. The severity of the felony goes up incrementally depending on whether the defendant knew that someone in the other car was injured or died. A hit-and-run driver charged with a felony can face a prison sentence ranging from six months to eight years, as well as a fine of up to $15,000.

The presiding court can also suspend the defendant’s driver’s license for six months, as well as order that they pay restitution to the victim as compensation for any economic loss arising from the accident. However, the amount cannot exceed $5,000.

How Hit-and-Run Accident Victims Can Recover Compensation in Ohio?

Absolutely. However, it is often more difficult because if the hit-and-run driver is not found, there is no way to file a third-party liability claim with their insurer.

Usually, the primary source of compensation for victims of hit-and-run accidents is normally uninsured motorist (UM) insurance. If you purchased this kind of coverage as part of your auto insurance, it can cover your medical expenses, property damage, and more.

Alternatively, you could also turn to Medical Payments (MedPay) insurance to pay for your medical expenses and collision coverage to pay for your property damage.

What Should I Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Being involved in an auto accident is difficult enough when the at-fault driver can be found. It can be even more frustrating when they flee the scene. If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, it is important that you do your best to take proactive steps early on.

• Report the incident to increase the odds that the police might be able to track down the at-fault driver.
• Take photos and videos of the scene to help establish the at-fault driver’s responsibility for the accident and take notes of everything you remember while it is still fresh in your mind.
• Look for witnesses and gather their contact information.
• Get a copy of the police report. You will need this report when you file your insurance claims.
• Seek medical attention and keep a copy of your medical records to file any insurance claims.
• Report the accident to your insurer no longer after the deadline established on your contract. Ideally, consult with an attorney first.
• Consult with an Ohio personal injury lawyer to get you started on the road toward compensation.

Talk to an Experienced Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer in Ohio Today

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Ohio, do not hesitate to consult with a skilled attorney as soon as possible. The legal team at Amourgis & Associates, Attorneys at Law, is standing by to hear your story and make sure you are fully informed about your legal rights and options going forward. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation with an experienced Ohio personal injury attorney.