It’s difficult to understand how someone could cause an accident and leave the scene without checking to see if the driver and passengers in the other vehicle are injured or not. Hit-and-run crashes continue to affect Indiana drivers. In 2020, there were 24,892 hit-and-run accidents in Indiana.
Why Do Drivers Leave the Scene of the Accident?
Dr. J. Thomas Dalby, a psychology professor from the University of Calgary and author of the paper, “The Psychology of Hit and Run,” is considered a forensics expert on the topic of hit-and-run drivers. He says, “Overwhelmingly, those who flee the scene of a hit and run have made an instant decision – within seconds – about the cost of staying versus taking off.” Although Dr. Dalby mentions blind panic as one possible reason, there are several others.
The Washington Post mentions several in their article, “Psychology 101: Why Do Drivers Involved in Crashes Flee the Scene?” Drivers may flee because they are:
- Attempting to avoid consequences.
- For example, drivers may have been drinking or taking drugs.
- They may have an outstanding warrant for their arrest.
- They may be driving a stolen car or have contraband in their vehicle.
- They may not have a driver’s license, up-to-date insurance, or registration.
- Unaware that they have hit another vehicle or pedestrian. This could happen because:
- They are under the influence and not aware of their surroundings.
- They are in such an adrenaline-charged state of panic that they block it out.
- Convinced that the accident was trivial and that they are not required to stop.
What Is the Law in Indiana?
Leaving the scene of a crash without fulfilling the required duties can lead to criminal charges. The consequences depend on the circumstances, including whether anyone was injured or killed.
Indiana Code 9-26-1-1.1 states that a driver involved in an accident must:
- Stop the vehicle –either at the scene of the accident or as close as is safely possible without obstructing traffic.
- Remain at the scene of the accident and give the following details to anyone involved in the accident:
- Name and address
- Registration number of the vehicle
- Show driver’s license
- If the accident has caused injury or death, the operator of the vehicle must also:
- Provide reasonable assistance to anyone injured or trapped
- Report the accident to the local police department, nearest county sheriff or county police post, or 911 operator.
- If the accident has caused damage to an unattended vehicle or property, the driver must attempt to find the owner. If that is unsuccessful, the driver must notify a law enforcement officer or agency and provide information.
Possible Criminal Charges
Failing to comply with Indiana’s duties after a crash can lead to criminal charges. The applicable charge and penalties depend on the facts, including the nature of any injury and other circumstances.
What Can You Do if You Are Involved in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
Unfortunately, there is always the possibility that the other driver will not behave appropriately. If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, here are the steps you should take:
- Try to note the license plate of the other car if the driver seems to be leaving. Remember as many details about the other driver and their car as you can.
- Call the police, but also get contact information from any witnesses before they also leave the scene (although hopefully, witnesses will wait for the police to arrive so that they can make statements).
- If the other driver is not found, review your insurance policy and discuss whether an uninsured motorist claim may be available. Coverage depends on the policy and the circumstances. Read more about uninsured and underinsured motorist claims in Indiana.
- Contact an experienced Indiana car accident attorney to help you navigate the process of negotiation with your insurance company, or with the other driver’s insurance company if they are found. You may have a legal battle on your hands, so strong legal representation is crucial.
Seek Compensation with Indianapolis Legal Counsel Today
Flores Law Group dedicates itself to ensuring our clients receive the help they need after experiencing a car accident. Our team can help you gather evidence, evaluate available insurance coverage, and pursue compensation for losses related to the crash.
Fill out our form for a free car accident consultation, give us a call at 317-426-4228, or stop by the office to find out how we can get the compensation you deserve.
