Immediately after being in a car accident, many people feel confused, angry and shocked over what just happened. After an auto accident, many people aren't sure what they should do. However, many people expect the other person involved in the accident to stick around. When a driver leaves the scene of an accident, it can be even more shocking that the crash itself.
Hit-and-run accidents come in many different forms. They can involve two vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. Hit-and-run accidents can result in minor injuries or property damage, but they can also result in catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident can by traumatizing even for victims not seriously injured.
Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents are increasing in Colorado despite recent laws aimed to discourage drivers from fleeing the scene of an accident. Statistics show that fatal hit-and-run accidents increased from 2011 to 2012, where fatalities increased from 18 to 34 in the state.
Hit-and-run accidents have become a serious safety issue for Colorado drivers. That is why lawmakers passed a law that increased the penalties for hit-and-run accidents that caused "substantial bodily injury."
Despite this law, it appears that many drivers are still leaving the scene of serious and fatal accidents. The increase in hit-and-run accidents begs the question as to why drivers would leave after being in a car accident. Previous studies have found that drivers often leave the scene of a crash out of fear. That fear could be caused by the driver having alcohol in her or her system, being underage or not having a valid driver's license.
Leaving the scene of an accident is not only a crime in Colorado, but it can lead to potentially fatal injuries for victims who could be saved if they receive medical attention as soon as possible. All drivers involved in a car accident need to stay at the scene to make sure everyone is okay, and if someone is injured, call for emergency responders right away. Drivers can also take this time to exchange insurance information and call the police if the accident resulted in damage to property or any injuries.
Source: The Windsor Beacon, "Hit-and-run fatal crashes rising in Colorado," Burt Hubbard, Feb. 17, 2014
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