Hit and Run Accidents in Brownsburg

When someone wrongfully leaves  an accident scene, it causes multiple problems. First, the injured party may be left to fend for themselves if no one else is around, but it also makes it more difficult to acquire damages without a specific target. In this situation, you should call a trusted car accident attorney from Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin. We know how to handle hit and run accidents in Brownsburg and can put our skills to good use on your behalf.

Defining a Hit and Run

A hit and run refers to a person leaving the scene of an accident without stopping to identify themselves or render aid to someone who is hurt. There are generally three types of accidents that could lead to a hit and run: hitting another motor vehicle; hitting a pedestrian or cyclist; and hitting a fixed object like a telephone pole or a mailbox.

The law requires that someone stops immediately after hitting another party, remain at the scene for a reasonable period, and do their best to render aid until help arrives for the injured party.

Common Fact Patterns

Many of the people who cause a hit and run in Brownsburg either do not want to be caught or do not want to be held responsible for injuries. Common reasons that people leave the scene after a car accident include:

• They were drinking alcohol.
• They were under the influence of drugs. .
• They may not have insurance.
• They do not want to be charged with a crime.
• They may have a previous conviction and are concerned they will end up in jail and/or their driver’s license is suspended.
• They have outstanding warrants or previous moving violations. .
• They might not be a U.S. citizen.
• They have a suspended driver’s license.
• They are on parole and think they have too much to risk in stopping.
• They just panic out of fear and take off.

Sometimes, these people go home and talk to someone or decide to turn themselves in. However, there is no acceptable reason for not stopping when they have caused an accident, and leaving an injured person alone by themselves is reprehensible.

Criminal Elements

Hit and run accidents are a little different than most accidents, as it typically involves both a criminal and civil aspect. If the person is found, there could be criminal charges from the state prosecutor, either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the incident. The defendant may get an attorney or a public defender, complicating the case.

Discuss Your Hit and Run Injury Claim with a Brownsburg Attorney

Hit and run accident claims in Brownsburg can be complex. Call our personal injury attorneys at Fleschner, Stark, Tanoos & Newlin and get legal assistance after a hit and run accident in Brownsburg.