An Accident Attorney Discusses Hit and Run Cases

In Colorado Springs and many other areas of the United States, an Colorado truck accident attorney or Colorado Springs personal injury lawyer is bound to work with a few hit and run cases involving a party who suffers injuries or other losses.  According to state law, hit and run is defined as any accident where the driver of a motor vehicle leaves the scene of the accident, but it is especially known for one where the perpetrator is intentionally trying to avoid legal consequences.  The term “hit and run” can apply to accidents involving another vehicle or one where a pedestrian was struck.  Over the years, the number of hit and run accidents has been on the rise, with records from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showing an increase of 15 percent in just one recent four year period

State traffic laws require that motorists involved in a vehicular accident follow certain guidelines after the incident takes place.  It is mandatory that drivers involved in an accident stop their vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.  They are also required to exchange contact information with one another, including the name of their insurance company.  The same applies to motor vehicle accidents that involve property damage, but that may require writing a note to the owner of the property including your contact information.

In addition to providing contact information, the driver must take reasonable steps to provide assistance to help someone who sustains injuries, which may include a request for medical help and filing a report with local law enforcement authorities.

Accident attorney or criminal lawyer?

If you or someone you know has been identified as the defendant in a hit and run accident, the charges could be very serious, especially if the accident resulted in serious injuries or death. Keep in mind that the severity of this charge will depend on various factors surrounding the accident, but an Colorado Springs auto accident attorney will only work on behalf of victims in such a case by filing a claim for losses or damages. A criminal attorney will be the right choice of representation for the defendant while an Colorado auto accident attorney presents a strong case on behalf of the victim.

What are the penalties involved in a hit and run accident?

A lot will depend on how the accident took place, the extent or degree of the damages, and whether serious injuries were sustained.  For defendants, a Colorado criminal defense attorney  will attempt to minimize the punishment for this type of accident, but the penalties for conviction may include time in jail, probation, the loss or suspension of your driver’s license and punitive fines.

If you are the victim of a hit and run accident, an car accident attorney colorado will be able to help you get fair compensation for your injuries.  For more information about hiring an accident attorney in Colorado Springs, contact the law firm of Clawson & Clawson, LLC.