Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing contact information or rendering aid. These accidents are common and leave victims with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Many drivers flee out of fear of legal consequences or lack of insurance, making it harder for victims to recover damages. At Paulozzi LPA, we work tirelessly to investigate these cases, negotiate with insurers, and help victims obtain maximum compensation.
Hit-and-run accidents, also known as “hit-skips” in Ohio, are alarmingly common and can leave victims facing physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial distress. Ohio law mandates that all drivers involved in an accident must stop and exchange information. Failing to do so can lead to serious criminal charges, civil liability, and significant financial burdens for victims. These incidents can range from minor property damage to severe injuries or fatalities, making it crucial for victims to understand their legal rights and options for pursuing compensation.
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Ohio, acting quickly can help protect your rights and increase the chances of identifying the driver. Follow these steps:
Police and private investigators use various methods to track down hit-and-run offenders:
Even if the driver is identified, victims still need legal representation to ensure fair compensation.
Understanding your legal rights is essential when dealing with a hit-and-run accident. Ohio law treats hit-and-run offenses seriously under Ohio Revised Code Section 4549.02. Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, with penalties based on the severity of the accident:
No Injury – 1st-degree misdemeanor
Serious Injury – 5th-degree felony
Known Serious Injury – 4th-degree felony
Death – 3rd-degree felony
Known Death – 2nd-degree felony
In addition to fines, license suspension, and jail time, individuals convicted of a hit-and-run in Ohio may face long-term repercussions, including:
Whether or not the driver is found, hit-and-run victims have legal avenues to recover damages. Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is crucial in these cases, helping cover:
An experienced attorney can help negotiate with insurance companies to maximize compensation.
If the driver remains unidentified, your uninsured motorist (UM) insurance can help cover your medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs.
Ohio law requires hit-and-run accidents to be reported within 24 hours. Delaying your report could complicate insurance claims.
Yes. Ohio follows a comparative negligence rule with a 51% bar rule. This means you can recover damages as long as you are 50% or less at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages.
Yes. Hit-and-run laws apply regardless of whether the accident occurred on a public road, in a parking lot, or on private property. Report the accident to law enforcement and your insurance company as soon as possible.
Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense in Ohio. If the accident only caused property damage, it is a misdemeanor punishable by fines and potential jail time. If the accident resulted in injuries or death, the driver could face felony charges, substantial fines, and a lengthy prison sentence.
Yes. Insurance companies often minimize payouts, and an experienced attorney ensures you receive the compensation you deserve.
At Paulozzi LPA, we understand the emotional and financial stress that follows a hit-and-run accident. Our legal team is committed to ensuring victims get the justice and compensation they deserve. We will:
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a hit-and-run accident in Ohio, don’t navigate this alone. Contact Paulozzi LPA today for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.
Ohio law takes hit-and-run offenses seriously, and with the right legal team on your side, you can fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. At Paulozzi LPA, we are committed to guiding hit-and-run victims through every step of the legal process. From investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies, we fight tirelessly to secure maximum compensation for our clients. If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, don’t face this battle alone. Contact Paulozzi LPA today for a free consultation, and let us help you seek justice.