Hit-and-run car accidents can be confusing. You might not know your rights or your legal options after the driver at fault for the accident fled the scene. However, an Oklahoma City hit-and-run accident lawyer can help explain your legal rights and pathways to recover compensation.
Legal Requirements After a Car Accident in Oklahoma
Oklahoma law requires every motorist involved in a car accident to stop, provide aid and assistance to others involved in the accident, and provide their name, contact information, driver’s license number, and car insurance information to the other drivers involved in the accident.
Criminal Charges After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Any driver who fails to stop and abide by the above legal requirements can face criminal charges. The potential penalties depend on the severity of the accident and the harm that it caused, as follows:
- Property damage only: Misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in the county jail and a fine of up to $00
- Non-fatal injury: Felony, with a prison sentence of up to two years and a fine of up to $1,000
- Fatal injury: Felony, punishable by up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
Civil Penalties Following a Hit-and-Run Accident
In addition to the criminal penalties outlined above, hit-and-run drivers can also face a civil penalty that requires them to pay three times the actual value caused by the accident imposed by Oklahoma law. Additionally, they can be required to pay for the victim’s damages, which may include medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and pain and suffering.
Why Drivers Hit and Run
Drivers may hit and run for various reasons, including the driver:
- Has a warrant out for their arrest
- Was committing a crime at the time of the accident
- Is unlicensed or uninsured
- Has a suspended or revoked driver’s license
- Was operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Didn’t realize they caused an accident
Sometimes, the driver might get scared or not want to accept responsibility for the harm they’ve caused.
What Should I Do After a Hit and Run Accident?
To increase the chances for a successful resolution of your case, take the following steps:
- Report the accident: Call 911 to report the accident and have a law enforcement officer respond, complete an accident report, and begin an investigation.
- Seek medical attention: Seek immediate medical attention to ensure your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated.
- Write down what you remember: As soon as possible, write down everything you remember about the at-fault driver and their vehicle, including a description of what they looked like, a description of the vehicle, and any portion of the license plate number.
- Document the scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene. Ask witnesses for their contact information.
- Notify your insurer: You may have uninsured motorist coverage that can help pay for some of your accident-related damages.
- Call a lawyer: An experienced OOKC hit and run accident attorney can review your case and help identify your legal options.
Contact Our Oklahoma City Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
You have a limited amount of time to take legal action, so contact Oklahoma Injury Law Firm or call us at (405) 310-8800 to get started.