What Evidence Is Needed to Convict a Hit-and-Run?
A hit-and-run is a crime. It happens when the driver of a vehicle knows they have just caused an accident and yet they don’t stop and exchange information with those involved. It’s an attempt to escape the scene and civil liability that might be incurred.
This applies even if the accident is not the driver’s fault. You will need evidence from the accident scene to convict them, and that’s where a lawyer from Kooi Law can help.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
Gathering proof immediately after the incident will help to validate your claims. Remember that the scene of the accident will not last forever, so it is advisable to act fast.
If you are understandably shocked or seriously hurt, ask someone to gather evidence for you.
Get Detailed Information About the Driver Who Hit You
Detailed information like their full name, address, and phone number will come in handy. Also ask for insurance details.
Collect Details of the Car That Hit You
Here are a few examples:
- License plate number
- Vehicle identification number (VIN)
- Model, make, and year of manufacture of the vehicle
- Owner’s contact details
Get Images and Footage
These are ideal evidence. If you are still in shock or hurt, ensure someone else is doing it for you. It is very important to take pictures of the vehicle that hit you and the resulting injuries and damages in Indianapolis. In fact, any photo or video showing what happened could be helpful.
Speak to Witnesses
You should talk with any witnesses to get a report of what they saw. One option is to record the witnesses’ report with a camera. When recording, be sure to include their full name and contact details.
What Sentence Can a Person Get for Fleeing After Hitting Someone?
Committing a hit-and-run is serious behavior and can be punishable by law. Indeed, leaving the scene of an accident without reporting means the person does not take responsibility for inflicting personal injury on another.
The absence of a responsible party undermines the entire compensation process for victims by insurance companies. It is difficult to request compensation for damage from the opposing party when the responsible driver has fled.
In this sense, the penalties provided for by law in the event of a hit-and-run are very heavy. It is up to a judge to set an appropriate sentence according to the seriousness of the incident. A person could face:
- Six points on their driving license
- Cancellation of a driving permit for a minimum of three years
- An obligation to take a road safety awareness course
- Confiscation of the car used
- Payment of damages to the victims of the accident, often in the thousands of dollars
The insurance company of the offender might also decide to cancel their car insurance policy.
Investigating Hit-and-Run Accidents
The police will investigate the accident based on the type and severity of the incident. When someone is seriously injured, the authorities launch an investigation. This investigation can also be supplemented by a personal injury attorney’s efforts.
Talk to a Personal Injury Attorney
If you or your loved one need the help of a personal injury attorney from Kooi Law after being affected by a hit-and-run, contact an experienced hit-and-run lawyer for advice now by calling 317-569-1335 or filling out the form below.
