What are the legal consequences of a hit-and-run accident?
October 6, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Nina Koch
Dear lawyer,
I am reaching out to you because I was recently involved in a traffic accident in which the perpetrator committed a hit-and-run. The situation was as follows: I was stopped at a red light when suddenly a car rear-ended me. However, the driver did not stop, but simply drove away without leaving his personal information or taking care of the damage caused.
Now I am very concerned about the legal consequences of this hit-and-run. I wonder what consequences the perpetrator can expect and if as the victim I have any rights to get my damages reimbursed. I also wonder if it is possible to hold the fleeing driver accountable and how I should proceed in this case.
I am aware that hit-and-run is a criminal offense and can be punished accordingly. However, I want to ensure that my interests as the victim are protected and that I can claim my right to compensation. Therefore, I ask for a detailed consultation on the legal consequences of a traffic accident with hit-and-run and possible solutions on how to best proceed in this situation.
Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Sincerely,
Christian Hahn
Dear Mr. Hahn,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the traffic accident in which you were recently involved and the hit-and-run driver who fled the scene. I understand your concerns about the legal consequences and wanting to protect your interests as the victim.
First and foremost, I want to assure you that hit-and-run is a criminal offense and can be punished accordingly. The fleeing driver violated their duties as a party to the accident by not taking care of the damage caused and leaving the scene without providing their personal information. In such cases, it is important for you as the victim to know your rights and take steps to have your damages compensated.
As a victim, you have the right to compensation for damages. This includes the repair costs for your damaged vehicle, any medical expenses for injuries suffered in the accident, as well as compensation for pain and suffering and any lost wages. In your case, where the hit-and-run driver is involved, the process of obtaining compensation may be more complex.
To have your damages compensated, you should immediately report the incident to the police and document the details of the accident. It is important to gather as much information as possible about the accident, the fleeing driver's vehicle, and any potential witnesses. Furthermore, I recommend consulting a traffic law attorney to effectively represent your interests and pursue a claim for damages against the hit-and-run driver.
In such cases, it may also be possible to hold the hit-and-run driver civilly liable. Your attorney can assist you in identifying the driver and taking legal action to have your damages compensated. It is important not to give up and assert your rights as a victim.
In conclusion, it is crucial to act promptly and seek professional help in such cases. Your attorney will help you understand the legal consequences of the hit-and-run accident and find the best possible solution for your situation.
I hope this information is helpful to you and I am available for any further questions you may have.
Sincerely,
Nina Koch
Attorney at Law
