No one has the right to flee the scene of an accident. Sadly, reckless drivers throughout our state try to escape liability by driving off after a crash. Lawbreakers who run from their legal responsibilities deserve to face consequences in civil and criminal courts.
If you or someone you love is hurt in a crash with a negligent driver, an accident attorney could put the law in motion to help you recover monetary compensation. Legal counsel may be essential for recovering any compensation after hit-and-run car accidents in Marion, particularly when law enforcement is unable to identify the driver.
Consequences for Leaving the Scene of a Crash
Drivers involved in collisions have a specific statutory responsibility to other motorists, as outlined in South Carolina Code § 56-5-1220. In the event of damage to another vehicle, all involved drivers must immediately stop at the accident scene. After remaining at the scene, motorists are expected to offer reasonable aid, exchange personal, insurance, and license information, and seek medical assistance as necessary (SC Code § 56-5-1230). Drivers may be tempted to move any obstructing vehicles; however, doing so before law enforcement arrives might incur liabilities for any resulting complications or injuries.
In the instance of a crash causing bodily injury, procedures are detailed in South Carolina Code 56-5-1210. Drivers must stop and follow the guidelines in §56-5-1230, except in cases where the driver leaves temporarily to inform authorities about the incident.
Failure to stop after an accident that causes harm may lead to a misdemeanor charge. Misdemeanors carry sentences ranging from 30 days to a year in prison, accompanied by fines up to $1,000. Felony charges are applicable when great bodily injury occurs, potentially resulting in up to ten years in prison and fines up to $10,000. In the tragic event of a death, the responsible driver could face a 25-year prison term and a fine of around $25,000.
Despite criminal repercussions, the financial burdens endured by the injured and their families persist. Seeking assistance from a compassionate hit-and-run car accident attorney in Marion allows injured individuals to pursue compensation for their losses in a separate civil proceeding.
Insurance Coverage Minimums in South Carolina
Navigating insurance coverage in auto accident cases can lead to challenges in obtaining payments. The complexity arises in securing funds from the opposing driver’s insurer and seeking payouts through one’s own provider. Competent attorneys understand how to draft necessary documents and make the right calls to secure favorable outcomes for their clients.
As per the regulations set out by the South Carolina Department of Transportation, motorists are required to carry a minimum level of insurance coverage for vehicle-on-vehicle collisions. In terms of liability, coverage starts at $25,000 for bodily harm per individual and $50,000 for all persons injured in the accident.
Required coverage for property damage, encompassing the partial or complete destruction of vehicles and other belongings, starts at a minimum of $25,000 for a single accident. A Marion lawyer could negotiate with insurers to secure fair compensation for both current and future damages faced by individuals and families hurt in hit-and-run accidents.
Work With a Hit-and-Run Car Accident Attorney in Marion
Hit-and-run car accidents in Marion are often catastrophic, and those injured may be left unsure of their options if law enforcement is unable to identify the fleeing driver. Our accident attorneys could exhaust all possible options, particularly those available through insurance coverage, to secure the maximum amount of compensation available under the circumstances. Call Whetstone Perkins & Fulda to discuss your situation with a member of our team.
