The greater Phoenix are experiences more hit-and-run accidents every year than most residents realize. In 2013 alone, there were 11,679 hit-and-run collisions in Arizona – nearly 11 percent of all traffic-related incidents across the state.
The reasons given by fleeing drivers vary but often share some of the same themes. Some running drivers claim they were afraid of the punishment that might result if they remained at the scene. Other drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs and flee so that their intoxication cannot be proved. Yet in other instances, drivers claim ignorance and state they did not realize they were involved in a collision.
The victims of these crashes may be entitled to relief if they sustain injuries, regardless of whether the at-fault driver is apprehended. Arizona laws entitle car accident victims to seek compensation against those responsible for an accident, and if the responsible driver flees and cannot be identified, the victim may be able to seek relief against his or her own insurance company. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer who has experience representing accident victims may help you understand whether you have a valid claim for your injuries if you have been injured in a collision.
Tempe police have reached out to the public to ask for their assistance regarding a hit-and-run crash on Monday night. Officials say a man was walking his bicycle on the north side of Broadway Road around 9:00 p.m. against traffic. According to the victim and eyewitnesses, a car in the area appeared like it was going to pass the pedestrian without issue but then veered at the walker, colliding with him and causing a crash. The driver of the car fled the scene and has not yet been identified.
Police believe that the vehicle involved was possibly a Dodge Stratus or a Chrysler Sebring manufactured between 2001 and 2006. An exact color is not known but witnesses describe the vehicle as dark. It may also have some damage from the collision. Anyone with information regarding the accident or the suspected driver is asked to call the Tempe Police Department.
The victim of Monday’s crash sustained serious injuries and was treated at an area hospital. He is recovering but may have sustained brain damage in the crash.
Fleeing the scene of an accident without speaking to police is a violation of the laws in Phoenix and across Arizona. Those found guilty of such an offense may face time in jail or prison, fines and fees, and even a loss of a driver’s license depending on the facts surrounding the crash. Additionally, though, a driver responsible for a crash may be held financially liable for any injuries that result, including the medical bills incurred by the victim or victims of that accident.
The legal team at Abels & Annes, P.C. believes in fighting for the rights of those who have been hurt by the negligence of others. We make ourselves available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to take your call toll free at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 819-5191. We offer a free case consultation to all injury victims who call us and everything discussed will be kept confidential.
If you have been hurt in a hit-and-run accident, do not suffer in silence. Call Abels & Annes, P.C. now and let us help you seek the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Coconino Rollover Accident Leaves 1 Dead, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published July 24, 2014.
Resource:
Hit-and-run victim speaks out, search for driver continues, Fox 10 News, published July 24, 2014.