Hit-and-run accidents are an ongoing threat to Florida’s pedestrians, bikers and motorists. Florida has one of the highest hit-and-run rates in the nation. In a recent case, police are on the search for the driver of a vehicle that struck and killed three women. Police reports indicated that the suspect was traveling at high speeds in a Chrysler when it struck a car carrying three women at the entrance of a parking lot. The crash caused the gas tank to rupture and the vehicle was consumed in flames. According to Reuters, all of the women were single mothers and left behind a total of six children.
This is a tragic case that should raise awareness about the danger of hit and runs and the challenging nature of accident investigations and liability. In any accident case, it is important to consult with advocates who can help to identify responsible parties and hold negligent drivers accountable. Our Palm Beach car accident attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals and families who have been impacted by injury or death. We are dedicated to raising awareness to prevent future accidents and to ensuring that negligent drivers are held liable, both criminally and in civil court.
According to Reuters, the women were aged 23, 21, and 25. Two of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene and the third died later at the hospital. The driver who struck the vehicle fled the scene and police have reported that he is still at large, though he has been identified. The owner of the Chrysler was not at the scene but has been cooperating with police to identify and find the suspect.
In many cases, hit and run accidents are caused by drunk drivers who are looking to avoid jail time and prevent criminal liability. A recent change in Florida laws ensures that drunk drivers do not have an incentive to flee. Hit and run accidents have been a growing problem throughout Florida. In Central Florida, investigators are called to 20 to 25 cases per day, compared to 10 per day five years ago. Hit and run accidents may be on the rise, but Florida laws are seeking to curb the behavior. Currently drunk drivers will get a minimum of four years, while fleeing the scene of an accident has no minimum sentences. Under the new bill, offenders would get a minimum of four years for leaving the scene of an accident.
One of the reasons that Florida has a high incidence of hit and run is that there are more pedestrians and cyclists on the road. High temperatures and an active drinking culture is a bad combination that can lead to drunk driving and deadly hit and run accidents. If you or someone you love has been injured in a hit and run, or a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation. In addition to law enforcement, you should consult with an independent advocate who can investigate your case.
Call Freeman Injury Law — 1-800-561-7777 for a free appointment to discuss your rights.
Additional Resources:
Hit-and-run driver injures pedestrian, April 6, 2014, By Robert Nolin, Sun Sentinel
More Blog Entries:
Broward Pedestrian Accidents a Serious, Ongoing Safety Threat, April 15, 2014, Broward Pedestrian Accident Attorney Blog