In every state in the U.S., drivers are legally required to stop and wait for law enforcement to arrive following an auto accident. Should one of the parties leave the scene of the accident, it is automatically considered to be a hit and run accident. Motorists tend to flee the scene because they have no insurance, are intoxicated, already have a record, or have outstanding warrants. Regardless of the reason, the other party is often left to pay for the damage to his or her vehicle and cope with medical expenses if injuries are involved. By contacting an experienced auto accident attorney, the victim of a hit and run is more likely to recover compensation.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents in Maryland
Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing contact information or rendering aid to injured parties. Under Maryland hit-and-run laws, this is a criminal offense that can result in severe penalties, including:
- Property damage only: Up to 60 days in jail and/or $500 in fines
- Bodily injury: Up to 5 years in prison and/or $5,000 in fines
- Serious bodily injury: Up to 10 years in prison and/or $10,000 in fines
- Fatal accident: Felony charges with up to 10 years in prison and/or $10,000 in fines
Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene?
Understanding why drivers flee can help law enforcement in their investigation. Common reasons include:
- Driving without valid insurance or a license
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Having outstanding warrants or a criminal record
- Driving a stolen vehicle
- Panic or fear of consequences
- Being unaware that an accident occurred (rare but possible)
What Law Enforcement Does After a Hit-and-Run Accident
1. Questioning the Other Party
The first step a police officer will take when investigating a hit-and-run accident is to question the motorist who remained on the scene. Victims of hit-and-run accidents should inform the police officer of any details they can remember, such as the make, model, and color of the car the other party was driving. The police officer will need to know which direction the other party is heading. It’s very helpful if the motorist remembers the fleeing driver’s license plate number – or even a partial plate number.
3. Searching the Area
Immediately after obtaining this information from the victim, law enforcement officers conduct a search of the area. They may set up roadblocks to stop vehicles that match the description of the suspect’s car.
4. Ticketing or Charging the Other Driver
If the other driver is found, he or she will, at the very least, be ticketed for traffic infractions. Often, hit-and-run offenders face criminal charges, particularly if injuries were involved with the auto accident.
What Victims Should Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run
Your actions in the moments following a hit-and-run can significantly impact both the police investigation and your ability to recover compensation. Follow these critical steps:
1. Ensure Safety First
- Move to a safe location if possible
- Call 911 immediately for medical help and police response
- Do not attempt to chase the fleeing driver
2. Document Everything
Use your smartphone to capture evidence before it disappears. Our article on how your iPhone can help after a car accident provides detailed tips on using technology effectively.
3. Gather Witness Information
Witnesses are crucial in hit-and-run cases. Learn more about the benefits of witness statements and how they can strengthen your case.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, get examined by a medical professional. Some injuries, particularly common auto accident injuries, may not show symptoms immediately.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, it may provide crucial protection in hit-and-run cases.
Criminal Charges and Legal Consequences
When law enforcement locates a hit-and-run driver, they face serious legal consequences:
Traffic Violations
At minimum, hit-and-run drivers will be ticketed for:
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Failure to render aid
- Failure to provide information
- Any moving violations that contributed to the accident
Criminal Charges
Depending on the severity of the accident, drivers may face:
- Misdemeanor charges: For property damage only accidents
- Felony charges: When injuries or fatalities occur
- Additional charges: DUI, vehicular assault, or manslaughter if applicable
License Consequences
- Immediate license suspension
- Points added to driving record (12 points in Maryland)
- Mandatory driver improvement programs
- Potential permanent revocation for severe cases
Insurance Coverage and Financial Recovery
Even if the hit-and-run driver is never found, you have options for financial recovery:
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
In Maryland, uninsured motorist coverage can protect you when the at-fault driver cannot be identified or lacks insurance. This coverage can help pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage (if you have UMPD coverage)
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Maryland requires all drivers to have PIP coverage unless explicitly waived. Learn why you shouldn't waive PIP insurance in Maryland. PIP provides immediate coverage for:
- Medical expenses up to policy limits
- Lost wages (typically 85% up to limits)
- Essential services
- Funeral expenses if necessary
Steps to Maximize Your Hit-and-Run Claim
To ensure the best possible outcome in your hit-and-run case:
- Report immediately: File a police report within 24 hours
- Document thoroughly: Take photos, gather witness information, and keep all records
- Seek medical care: Create a documented record of your injuries
- Review your coverage: Understand your insurance policies and available benefits
- Avoid quick settlements: Don't accept the first offer from insurance companies
- Consult an attorney: Get professional legal guidance before making decisions
Have You Been Injured in a Maryland Car Accident?
If you've been injured in a car accident, you need to speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Gaithersburg office directly at 301.840.0404 to schedule your free consultation.
