What is a Felony Hit and Run?
A felony hit and run, also known as a hit and run serious bodily injury, is a criminal offense that occurs when a driver flees the scene of an accident without checking on the well-being of the injured party or exchanging necessary information with the other people involved. In the aftermath of a collision, some drivers may panic and accelerate away from the scene of the accident, leaving damaged vehicles and injured people in their wake. However, this behavior is illegal in most jurisdictions and can carry severe consequences, including fines and imprisonment.
What defines a Felony Hit and Run?
To meet the criteria for a felony hit and run, three essential elements must be proven:
• Involuntary injury: The reckless or negligent actions of the driver must have caused, or have a high risk of causing, serious or permanent bodily harm to others.
• Hit-and-run: The driver knowingly leaves the scene of an accident without stopping, yielding, or providing information in accordance with the law (e.g., reporting their identity, vehicle information, etc.).
• Disregard for human life: The driver’s flight from the scene demonstrates a shocking disregard for human life or safety.
Consequences of a Felony Hit and Run
The effects of a felony hit-and-run can be far-reaching and devastating for the families of those injured or wrongfully killed. The law enforcement and legal systems do not take these offenses lightly, and the consequences include:
• Fines: Substantial fines to punish the driver for recklessly disregarding the health and safety of others.
• Imprisonment: Up to 4 years in a state prison for vehicular manslaughter or up to 6 years for infliction of great bodily injury.
• License Revocation: The driver may face license revocation in addition to other penalties outlined above.
• Driver’s License Suspension: Additional suspension or revocation by the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
• Insurance Consequences: Insurance rates may increase sharply, or coverage may even be denied.
• Civil Liability: Victims injured in a hit-and-run may be able to claim damages against the driver directly, regardless of the specific charges filed.
Reporting a Hit and Run Injury
If you are an injured party or witness hit-and-run, it’s crucial to report the accident to the authorities as promptly as possible. Timing is essential in most jurisdictions, as failure to report a hit-and-run within a specific timeframe, usually 24-72 hours, may lead to additional charges or penalties against the victim.
Information to Report
When responding to a hit-andrun, please provide the following information:
• Driver(s) Involved: Driver’s name, license information, vehicle description, vehicle license plate number, if available.
• Circumstances of Accident: Briefly describe how the accident occurred, your injuries, and any important details about the other motorists involved.
• Incident Location: Provide location details, including the type of road, nearest exit, and any nearby structures or landmarks.
Supporting the Victims
Communities often come together in the aftermath of a violent hit-and-run, pledging support to the suffering families. Voluntary organizations, such as Victims of Crime, can mobilize resources, including law enforcement assistance, medical consultations, and financial aid programs.
Prevention Begins with Education
The statistics on hit-and-run claims are staggering, and as a society, we share the responsibility to raise public awareness about the dangers. Prevention is more effective than punishment if we work together to design safer roadways, establish stricter traffic laws, educate drivers on the consequences, and provide support to road users who have been through traumatic experiences.
Recovering from a Felony Hit and Run
Hit-and-run accidents are brutal and unpredictable, leaving deep emotional scars. Seek Help if you have encountered a similar situation. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local authorities and seek support from law enforcement, healthcare professionals, spiritual leaders, or mental wellness organizations.
