VALDOSTA HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT ATTORNEYS
Fighting For Hit And Run Accident Victims in Georgia
Hit and run accidents are an increasing problem. A report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found about 11% of all crashes reported to the police involve a hit and run driver.
Also, 1 out of every 5 pedestrian fatalities involves hit and run drivers. Studstill Firm, LLP has the experience you need in your hit and run case.
There may be times where the driver didn’t notice they had hit something but most of the time the hit and run drivers are too afraid of the repercussions to stop and care for the injured person. Failing to stop and render aid turns the accident into a deliberate crime.
If you’ve been injured by an irresponsible driver who never stopped to give their information, call (229) 515-8900 to talk to our team at Studstill Firm, LLP for a free consultation. Let us see what we can do for you.
Understanding Georgia's Hit and Run Laws
Penalties for a hit and run will vary, but can can include jail time, fines, and license suspensions according to hit and run laws in Georgia.
WHEN IS A HIT AND RUN A FELONY AND WHEN IS IT A MISDEMEANOR?
When is a hit and run a felony in Georgia? If a Georgia hit and run accident results in death or serious injury, a conviction could result in a felony charge punishable by imprisonment for no less than one and no more than five years.
If the hit and run accident results in a non-serious injury or property damage, a conviction could result in a misdemeanor. According to Georgia hit and run laws, the punishment for misdemeanor hit and run intensifies for repeat offenders:
- 1st Offense: A conviction will result in a fine no less than $300 and no more than $1,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months.
- 2nd Offense: A conviction of a second hit and run offense within five years of the last arrest will result in no less than $600 and no more than $1,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months.
- 3rd Offense: A third offense within five years of the last arrest will result in a fine no less than $1,000 and/or imprisonment for up to 12 months
While it may have been easier to get away with such a crime before street cameras and smartphones, now it is much easier for people to hold others accountable for their irresponsibility.
If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a hit and run accident, hold the responsible party accountable for their gross negligence and contact our firm today!
WHAT MUST A DRIVER DO AFTER THEY ARE INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT?
According to Georgia code, a driver involved in an accident that results in injury or property damage must immediately stop at the scene of the accident and give his or her name, address, and vehicle registration number.
The law also states that upon request and if available, the driver must be able to show his or her operator's license. Additionally, a driver involved in an accident involving injuries is obligated to render aid and transportation if it is required and contact emergency medical services and police if the victim is deceased, unconscious, or incapacitated.
What is a Hit And Run?
A "hit and run" is when a driver fails to fulfill these duties and drives away after being involved in an accident with another driver or pedestrian.
If a person doesn’t stop, not only can they be charged with a criminal offense, but they are also subject to punitive damages in any subsequent civil action suit filed by the victim or the victim’s family.
WHY DON’T PEOPLE STOP AFTER A HIT AND RUN?
There is no good reason for people to fail to stop after striking another car or individual with their vehicle. However, those who do commit this crime might do so because they have been driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol and don’t want to be arrested and punished for a DUI.
Similarly, it could be that the driver is so far gone under the influence he or she didn’t even notice the accident occurred. In other cases, people might not stop because they are driving without a valid license or do not have car insurance.
Contact Our Valdosta Hit And Run Attorneys Today
Even if you weren’t able to get the license plate of the hit and run driver or any information, you can still seek compensation for injuries and damages by hiring an experienced Valdosta injury lawyer.
Have the police document the accident fully and get the contact information for any and all eyewitnesses as they will be crucial to any claim. It’s almost impossible to identify a hit and run driver at a later point in time, so you must act as quickly as possible to preserve relevant evidence.
Contact one of our skilled auto crash attorneys, who are more familiar with the ins and outs of car accident liability lawsuits and investigations.
Studstill Firm LLP attorneys have handled many cases involving car accidents, so we can help perform a full investigation to ensure those responsible for your accident are held accountable.
We have 2 offices in South Georgia available to serve you, and we are also able to meet with individuals and their families at home or in the hospital. If you need trusted lawyers who will tenaciously advocate on your behalf, don’t hesitate to call us.
Our team believes victims of personal injury are owed not only for their medical bills and potential lost wages but also they deserve justice. Let us get you the compensation you deserve. We have recovered millions for injured clients and will go above and beyond in your case.
Contact us by calling (229) 515-8900 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We look forward to helping you through this difficult time.
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I have known and worked with the staff at the Studstill Firm for many years. From the beginning I have been treated as a member of the “family.” They have gone out of their way to assist me in my business dealings. There’s not a finer bunch than the Studstill Firm. I highly recommend them!- Jenny
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Everyone in the office was very friendly and quick to return emails and phone calls. Danny Studstill was very helpful at explaining the paper work…Great firm! Highly recommend!- Lindsi
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Experience counts greatly when dealing with legal transactions and this firm has that, and more…. I would highly recommend their services to anyone!- Don & Kelli
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I felt like I was well taken care of and [Haynes Studstill] was very responsive and kept me up to date with everything. I would refer anyone to this law firm.- Adam
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Wonderful…. Everyone at the Studstill Firm is truly caring and will go out of their way to make sure all of the best decisions are made for you. They truly have your best interest at heart.- Diane
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I can’t emphasize how satisfied I am with how you handled my case throughout; and it has nothing to do with the fact that you earned me a favorable settlement. Honestly the amount of the settlement mean little compared to the quality of service I received. I’ve dealt with lawyers in the past and my experience with you is by far the best! What makes it the best is: You communicated EVERYTHING clearly from beginning to end (no surprises) Your response time was ALWAYS fast Your staff is professional and thorough You applied yourself diligently to make SURE I was protected by law and that I received EVERYTHING I was entitled to by law You NEVER made me feel pressured to make a decision or do anything I didn’t feel comfortable with Overall and throughout the process, I felt as if you cared more about ME as a client than about making money. I just felt as if I had a “good person” working on my behalf.- Daryl
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I would recommend every person I know to the Studstill Firm. Awesome people and representation.- Shane
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All staff were nice, professional and helpful as my case moved along. Staff called just to see how I was feeling and to keep me up to date on what was happening and why.- Jessie
What Sets Us Apart?
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We are dedicated to achieving significant results that truly make a difference. Our track record of millions recovered underscores our relentless pursuit of justice on behalf of our clients.
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Our clients' needs and goals are at the heart of everything we do. We are results-driven, ensuring that every strategy is aligned with delivering the best possible outcomes.
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We bring unwavering commitment and passion to every case we handle. Our advocacy is fueled by a deep dedication to defending our clients' rights and interests.
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We take pride in offering personalized attention that caters to the unique circumstances of each client. Every legal plan is carefully curated to provide the most effective and tailored solutions.