Louisiana Hit and Run Lawyer
An accident is termed a hit and run when a vehicle driver does not stop at the scene of the collision but flees. Fleeing the scene of an accident is considered a criminal offense and can have legal repercussions which can include fines and jail time. The law requires that when someone is in an accident, they must stop at the scene and follow the procedure which includes calling for medical aid in case of injuries, reporting the accident to the police, and exchanging insurance information.
If you are a victim of a hit and run accident, you should seek legal counsel at the earliest. Irrespective of whether you have been injured or not, if the other driver is at fault then you are entitled to claim damages to your vehicle at the least. Consulting a qualified car accident lawyer in Louisiana can help you understand your options better and make a prudent, legal, and informed decision.
Types of Hit and Run Accidents
A hit and run accident can occur between two vehicles or involve one vehicle and pedestrians or bicyclists. A hit and run can also be caused without direct contact with the guilty driver’s vehicle. For instance, one car may cause another car to swerve abruptly and run into a pedestrian or a bicyclist. Most such accidents are caused by drunk drivers who drive off without even realizing what they have done in their inebriated state.
In some hit and run cases, the driver might abandon the vehicle and flee. This usually happens in cases where the vehicle has been stolen and the driver would not want to be caught with it. Often panic causes a driver to flee the scene of the accident and this is usually the resort of those who have something to hide.
Legal Implications with Louisiana Hit and Runs
Hit and run accidents can result in serious charges in all states in the U.S. If the accident occurs on private property or involves parked vehicles, the procedures followed may be a little different but a violation of the law is still effected regardless. If the offender is caught and convicted then he or she will be required to pay for damages caused to the other driver’s car as well as any medical expenses in case anyone was hurt. In accidents where an injury has occurred, the punishment is usually severe and the fines are usually quite steep. Most or all of these fines could be distributed to you if you have the right lawyer working on your behalf.
In some states, DMV might award negative points for such an incident. A certain number of negative points can result in license revocation and other penalties aside from the criminal case associated with a hit and run accident. An attorney experienced in hit and run accidents can fabricate and design the right strategy for you in court. Your lawyer might also be able to access the police report filed in connection. Such cases abide by the statute of limitations. So, if the guilty driver is located only after a decade or so, it will not do you any good since they will not be liable for prosecution at that later point in time.
Contact Our Skilled Louisiana Hit and Run Lawyer
Experienced and hardworking attorney Price McNamara handles hit and run cases across New Orleans, Kenner, Lafayette, Mandeville, Lafourche, Terrebonne, Jefferson, Orleans, East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, Ascension, and St. John Parishes. If you think that you have a basis for a personal injury claim, or have been hurt or injured due to someone’s negligence or fault, call Louisiana personal injury attorney Price McNamara at his Baton Rouge office (225-201-8311) or his Metairie office (504-458-8455) to have your queries answered or to schedule a free consultation. His extensive trial experience of over 20 years, proven track record, and limited caseload philosophy ensure that you will obtain excellent personal attention and a patient hearing on a consistent basis.
