The number of hit and run accidents is on the rise in Mississippi and across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over 1,449 fatal hit and run accidents occurred in 2011, a figure that is up significantly from prior years. This rise in the number of hit and runs also comes during a time when deaths from most traffic deaths are on the decline.  Pedestrians are frequently fatal hit and run accident victims due their vulnerability.

The Mississippi automobile accident attorneys at Barrett Law, PLLC are saddened to hear that hit and run accidents are on the rise. We have assisted countless hit and run accident victims and witnessed firsthand the devastation these accidents can bring to a family.  We understand that hit and run accidents can occur due to a wide variety of circumstances, the most common of which include:

1. Illegal driving: Many hit and run drivers are driving illegally. They may not have a license or their license is suspended. They may also lack insurance or a proper registration. They do not want law enforcement personnel to catch them driving illegally, so they flee the scene of the accident.
2. Panic: Sometimes drivers reach such a point of panic that they flee the scene of the accident. The majority of hit and run fatalities involve pedestrians. In some cases, drivers may not see a pedestrian and when they realize they have hit someone, they panic and flee.
3. Drunk driving or other illegal activity: Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time they hit someone may flee the scene of the accident in order to avoid prosecution. They are likely worried that they will fail a field sobriety test and in fear they flee. Other drivers may have illegal substances or firearms in the vehicle and flee out of fear these illegal items will be found and seized.
4. Fear of the overall consequences of an accident: Drivers at times will flee simply to avoid the consequences that accompany any serious accident. They may be afraid of being charged for causing the accident due to breaking traffic violations. They may not wish to face increased insurance rates or deal with the police.

While all of these circumstances explain why someone may elect to flee the scene of an accident, they are never a valid excuse for engaging in this illegal behavior. All drivers have a legal responsibility to stop and wait for the authorities to arrive if they have been involved in a serious accident.  Failure to do so is a criminal offense, punishable by fines, points on your license, and much more.

If you have been injured by a hit and run driver, there are steps you can take to obtain the compensation you deserve. Often, hit and run drivers can be identified through witnesses, cameras, and other physical evidence left at the scene. Other times, you may be able to obtain compensation through your own insurance.  Contact a car accident attorney for more assistance.

Barrett Law, PLLC: A Preeminent Mississippi Law Firm

If you have been injured in a car accident, contact the Mississippi Automobile Accident Attorneys at Barrett Law, PLLC. Our outstanding Mississippi law firm has assisted injured car accident victims and their families for over 75 years.  We fight for our injured clients to receive the coverage they deserve for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and much more.  Do not delay in seeking legal assistance as you have a limited time within which to file a claim after your injury.  Call Barrett Law, PLLC today at 1 (601) 790-1505 to schedule your free initial consultation.