Hit and Run Accidents
Any type of car accident can be stressful and even devastating. However, hit and run accidents can be particularly infuriating as the party responsible for the crash attempts to flee the scene. In the state of Tennessee, an individual is required by law to stop his or her vehicle after an accident occurs. If the individual fails to do so, he or she is then committing a hit and run. If an individual is found guilty of a hit and run, the corresponding punishment may vary according to the severity of the crash. He or she could be required to pay various fines, spend time in jail, or both.
Duty to Stop
According to Tennessee traffic law, all parties involved in a car accident are obligated to do three things:
- Stop your vehicle immediately and return to the scene of the accident,
- Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and
- Wait for appropriate authorities to get to the scene.
In addition to these requirements, if any individual is injured in the accident you are expected to do anything you can to assist the injured party. This act is called providing reasonable assistance, and most actions taken with the intention of assisting a victim of the accident qualify. However, individuals are not expected to put themselves in danger in order to fulfill reasonable assistance.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney in Tennessee Today
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a hit and run, you may be eligible for a financial settlement. Contact the Tennessee law offices of Pohl & Berk, LLP by calling 615-277-2765 to discuss your options today.