leaving the scene of an accident

Why You Should Never Leave the Scene of a Car Accident

Car accidents can be a traumatic experience for everyone involved. In the heat of the moment, some drivers may feel tempted to leave the scene of an accident. However, this can result in serious legal and moral consequences.

In this article, we will explore why it is so important to stay at the scene of an accident, as well as provide tips on how to handle the situation if you are ever involved in one.

If you’ve been injured in a car accident, contact a West Virginia car accident lawyer from Miley Legal. We understand how overwhelming the legal system can be after a car accident. We will do whatever it takes to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your damages.

You can rely on us. Contact us today to get started on your claim.

Legal Consequences of Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, and it can result in serious legal consequences. Depending on the severity of the accident, you could face fines, jail time, and even a felony conviction.

In addition to these legal consequences, leaving the scene of an accident can also result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license.

Moral Obligations to Stay at the Scene

Aside from the legal consequences, there are also moral obligations to stay at the scene of an accident. When you leave the scene, you are abandoning someone who may be injured and in need of help. Even if you were not at fault for the accident, it is important to stay and make sure that everyone involved is okay.

The Importance of Collecting Information

Staying at the scene of the accident allows you to gather evidence. If you are involved in an accident, it is important to collect information from all parties involved.

This includes contact information, insurance information, and a description of the vehicles involved. You can also take pictures of your injuries and property damage. This information will be necessary when you file a police report or make an insurance claim.

Protecting Your Rights

By staying at the scene of an accident, you are also protecting your legal rights. If the other driver is at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for any damages or injuries. However, if you leave the scene, it will be difficult to prove your case in court. So, make sure you call the police and remain at the scene until they arrive.

The Importance of Reporting the Accident

Reporting the accident to the police is essential, even if it is a minor one.

Doing this will create an official record of the accident, which can be used to support your insurance claim. If there are any injuries or property damage, the police will need to be involved. Providing accurate and detailed information to the police can also help them to determine who was at fault for the accident.

Remember to remain calm and cooperative when speaking to the police, as this can help to resolve the situation more quickly and smoothly.

What to Do If You Are the Victim of a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, it is important to stay at the scene and call the police immediately. Even if the other driver fled, you need to stay in order to report the accident. If you leave the scene, it will be very difficult for you to seek compensation for your damages.

Once the police arrive, provide them with as much information as possible, including the description of the vehicle and any witnesses who may have seen the accident. It is also important to take pictures of any damages to your vehicle and any injuries you may have sustained.

You should also consider working with a West Virginia hit-and-run accident lawyer. They will help you file a claim and earn compensation even if the police can’t identify the driver who hit you.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When involved in an accident, there are several common mistakes that drivers make, which can have serious consequences:

These mistakes include:

  • Leaving the scene of the accident
  • Failing to collect information from the other driver(s) involved
  • Failing to report the accident to the police or your insurance company
  • Admitting fault for the accident, even if you are not entirely sure
  • Failing to seek medical attention for any injuries you may have sustained

Contact Miley Legal

Leaving the scene of a car accident is never a good idea. Not only is it illegal, but it can also have serious moral, legal, and financial consequences. By staying at the scene, collecting information, and reporting the accident to the police, you are protecting yourself and your legal rights.

After an accident, it’s in your best interest to contact an experienced car accident lawyer. Your attorney will handle all the hard work for you so you can focus on recovery. They will also do whatever it takes to make sure you receive compensation for your injuries.

Contact Miley Legal today to schedule a free case review.

Author Bio

Tim Miley is the Founder of Miley Legal Accident Injury Lawyers, a West Virginia personal injury law firm he formed in 2006. With more than 30 years of experience in personal injury law, he is dedicated to representing clients in a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, trucking accidents, motorcycle accidents, brain injuries, wrongful death, and other personal injury matters.

Tim received his Juris Doctor from Duquesne University and is a member of the West Virginia State Bar and the Harrison County Bar Association. He has helped his clients win more than $10 million in personal injury verdicts and settlements and has further served the people of West Virginia by filling legislative roles in the state’s government since 2004.

LinkedIn | State Bar Association | Avvo | Google