Hit and Run Statistics in Fort Myers: What You Need to Know

Have you ever wondered about the impact of hit and run accidents in Fort Myers? These incidents, where a driver flees the scene after causing a collision, can have devastating consequences for victims and their families. Understanding the scope of this problem and knowing what to do if you're involved in such an accident is crucial for your safety and legal protection.

In this article, you'll learn about the extent of hit and run incidents in Fort Myers, including common causes and the legal ramifications under Florida law. We'll also guide you through the steps to take if you find yourself a victim of a hit and run accident. By the end, you'll be better prepared to handle these situations and understand your rights as a driver or pedestrian on Fort Myers roads.

Overview of Hit and Run Incidents in Fort Myers

Hit-and-run accidents have become a growing concern in Fort Myers and Southwest Florida. In the first 11 months of 2021, Lee County reported over 2,500 illegal hit-and-run accidents. This alarming trend is part of a larger statewide issue. Between 2015 and 2019, Florida experienced more than 507,000 hit-and-run incidents, with over 1,000 resulting in fatalities. These accidents pose a significant threat to all road users, especially pedestrians and bicyclists. In fact, 3 out of 5 pedestrian fatalities in Florida involve a hit-and-run. If you find yourself a victim of a hit-and-run accident in Fort Myers, it's crucial to know that you have options for recovery, whether the at-fault driver is caught or not. Fort Myers car accident attorney David Pittman can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.

Common Causes of Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents in Fort Myers often stem from drivers' fear of consequences. Intoxication is a leading factor, with impaired judgment prompting fleeing. Distracted driving, including texting or eating while driving, contributes significantly to these incidents. Some drivers leave the scene due to lack of insurance, driving without a license, or fear of legal repercussions. Panic or unawareness of legal obligations can also lead to hit and runs. In Florida, 80% of accidents are caused by distracted driving, which includes various activities beyond phone use. Remember, leaving an accident scene is illegal and can result in severe penalties. If you're involved in a hit and run, Fort Myers car accident attorney David Pittman can help protect your rights and navigate the legal process.

Legal Consequences of Hit and Run in Florida

Florida law takes a harsh stance against hit and run drivers. If you're caught fleeing the scene of an accident, you could face severe penalties based on the damage caused. For property damage only, you may be charged with a second-degree misdemeanor, resulting in up to 60 days in jail and a USD 500.00 fine. If someone is injured, you could face a third-degree felony, with penalties of up to 5 years in prison and a USD 5,000.00 fine. In cases of serious bodily injury or death, the consequences are even more severe, including felony charges, longer prison sentences, and higher fines. Fort Myers car accident attorney David Pittman can help you understand these laws and protect your rights if you're involved in a hit and run incident.

Steps to Take if You're a Victim of a Hit and Run

If you're involved in a hit and run in Fort Myers, take these crucial steps:

1. Stay at the scene and call 911 immediately.
2. Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries.
3. Gather information about the fleeing vehicle, including make, model, color, and license plate details.
4. Take photos of the accident scene and your injuries.
5. Collect witness contact information.
6. File a police report and cooperate fully with law enforcement.
7. Notify your insurance company promptly.
8. Contact Fort Myers car accident attorney David Pittman to protect your rights and explore compensation options, including uninsured motorist coverage.

Remember, your actions immediately after the incident can significantly impact your case and potential compensation.

Hit-and-run accidents in Fort Myers pose a serious threat to road users, especially pedestrians and cyclists. The statistics reveal a troubling trend, with thousands of such incidents reported annually in Lee County alone. Understanding the common causes, legal consequences, and steps to take if involved in a hit-and-run is crucial to protect oneself and navigate the aftermath effectively.

Fort Myers car accident attorney David Pittman can be a valuable resource for victims of hit-and-run accidents. His expertise can help guide individuals through the legal process, explore compensation options, and protect their rights. Whether the at-fault driver is caught or not, knowing your options and taking prompt action can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

FAQs

1. How common are hit and run accidents in Florida?
Hit and run incidents represent about one quarter of all vehicle crashes in Florida, where the driver involved leaves the scene without admitting responsibility or contacting emergency services.

2. Which states have the highest frequency of hit and run accidents?
States like New Mexico, Louisiana, and Florida have the highest rates of hit and run accidents, whereas New Hampshire, Maine, and Minnesota report the lowest. There has been a noted increase in the number of hit-and-run crashes resulting in police reports in recent years.

3. What is required to prove a hit and run case in Florida?
To prove a hit and run in Florida, it must be demonstrated that the accused was driving a vehicle involved in an accident causing injury, death, or property damage, and that they knew or should have known they were involved in an accident.

4. Are hit and run incidents investigated by the police in Florida?
Yes, Florida law enforcement actively investigates hit and run cases. If the fleeing driver is caught, they can be arrested and charged with leaving the scene of an accident, which is considered a misdemeanor of the second degree under Florida Statute 316.061.

If you have been hit by a hit and run driver and need legal advice, call Pittman Law Firm ,P.L. today for your free consultation. 

The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.