November 9, 2023 | Accidents

According to the Nebraska Department of Transport, 1.2 people in the state are killed in motor vehicle accidents for every 100 million miles traveled. In 2021, the government body reported 221 fatalities from car accidents. While not every accident results in fatalities, many car accidents result in serious injuries.

The Rise of Hit and Run Accidents in Omaha

Nebraska law prohibits drivers involved in an accident from leaving the scene of the accident. State laws require all drivers in an accident to stop at the scene of the accident and exchange information with other drivers involved in the accident. Fleeing the scene of an accident is a serious crime. In addition, every driver involved in a motor vehicle accident resulting in a fatality, injury or damages amounting to damages over $1,000 is required to submit a confidential Driver’s Motor Vehicle Crash Report to the authorities within 10 days of the accident.

Despite these laws, hit and run incidents in Omaha are on the increase. The following are some factors contributing to the surge in this concern for public safety.

1.       Distracted driving

Widespread use of devices such as smartphones, tablets and navigation systems is one of the leading causes of accidents today. When drivers are not fully attentive to the road or their surroundings, they are more likely to cause accidents. These drivers are also more inclined to flee the scene of the accident out of fear of the legal consequences of their actions.

2.       Impaired driving

Driving while under the influence of drugs, alcohol or other substances can impair the judgment and reaction time of drivers. Impaired drivers are more likely to engage in reckless behavior such as fleeing from the scene of an accident to avoid DUI charges.

3.       Lack of insurance

Underinsured or uninsured drivers are more likely to flee the scene of an accident. Thy may do this for fear of being held financially liable for the accident and having no means to cover the resulting costs.

4.       Driving without a driver’s license

Drivers that are involved in an accident may flee the scene of the accident if they were driving without a license or if their license was suspended at the time of the accident. They do this in order to avoid the legal penalties of driving without a license.

5.       Youth and inexperience

Inexperienced drivers as well as younger drivers are more likely to flee from the scene of an accident. They may not understand the legal or moral implications of leaving the scene of an accident and may react out of fear of the consequences of remaining at the scene.

6.       Lack of familiarity with legal obligations

Some drivers are not aware of their legal obligation to stop at the scene of an accident in which they are involved in. They may not be aware of the legal requirement to exchange information after an accident even when the accident is considered a minor collision.

What You Should Do When Involved in an Accident

If you have been involved in a car accident, it is important to take the following steps:

1.       Ensure your safety and that of others involved in the accident. Check to ensure you and your passengers are safe. You should call emergency services if there is anyone injured.

2.       Exchange information with other drivers involved in the accident. Note the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved. You should also note information such as the model, make and color of the car. This is especially important if the other driver is fleeing the scene of the accident. You should also take note of details such as the appearance of the driver.

3.       Notify the authorities. If you haven’t contacted emergency services, you should contact the local authorities to report the accident as soon as possible. The police report and any evidence gathered at the scene of the accident will play a vital role when recovering compensation for damages as well as in tracking down the hit-and-run driver.

4.       Document the scene of the accident. Take photos and videos of the scene, damage to the vehicle and visible injuries.

5.       Contact your insurance provider to inform them about the accident.

Why You Should Contact an Attorney after a Hit and Run Accident

Recovering compensation in hit and run accidents can be difficult and even complex. It helps to have an experienced attorney fighting in your corner. If you’ve been involved in a hit and run accident, you should contact an attorney right away. Your attorney will:

1.       Provide you with legal guidance

They will provide valuable legal guidance on how to navigate the complex process of filing a claim and seeking compensation.

2.       Help in identifying the culprit

Attorneys have the experience and resources necessary to help in identifying hit and run drivers. They will increase your chances of finding the driver and holding them accountable.

3.       Maximize compensation

Your attorney will fight to recover maximum compensation on your behalf.

Have you been injured in a hit and run accident? Contact our law firm now to schedule free consultation with an attorney and learn about your rights and how we can help.

Hit and Run Accidents Omaha