Getting injured in a car accident is stressful enough, but when the at-fault driver flees the scene, that stress can quickly escalate into confusion and frustration. Florida drivers involved in hit-and-run crashes often face uphill battles when trying to recover medical costs, vehicle repairs, and lost income. While Florida’s no-fault insurance system offers some initial protection, it doesn’t always cover the full picture—especially when serious injuries are involved.
Knowing when to hire a lawyer after a hit and run in Florida can make a major difference in how effectively you recover damages and navigate the legal process. Here’s what you need to know about your rights, your options, and when legal representation becomes not just helpful, but necessary.
Hit-and-Run Accidents Are on the Rise in Florida
Florida consistently ranks among the top states for hit-and-run incidents. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), more than 100,000 hit-and-run crashes occur each year across the state. Many of these collisions result in injuries or fatalities, and law enforcement is not always able to locate the fleeing driver.
That reality leaves victims with difficult choices: file an uninsured motorist (UM) claim, pursue a civil lawsuit (if the driver is eventually identified), or rely solely on their own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. These decisions often involve deadlines, documentation, and insurance challenges that are easier to handle with an attorney’s help.
Florida's No-Fault Insurance System Only Covers So Much
Florida is a no-fault state, which means that after an accident—hit and run or not—your own PIP insurance typically pays for your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. However, this coverage has limitations:
- PIP only covers 80% of medical bills up to $10,000
- It covers just 60% of lost income
- Pain and suffering are not covered under PIP
- Severe injuries may exceed your policy limits
If your injuries are significant or your PIP coverage runs out quickly, you may need to file a claim under your uninsured motorist policy or pursue other legal remedies. That’s when a lawyer becomes essential.
When Should You Hire a Lawyer After a Hit-and-Run in Florida?
1. You Have Serious Injuries or Long-Term Medical Needs
If your injuries require surgery, physical therapy, or ongoing care, there’s a good chance your expenses will exceed PIP limits. An attorney can help you pursue compensation beyond PIP, either through your uninsured motorist coverage or by preparing a personal injury claim if the other driver is found.
2. The At-Fault Driver Cannot Be Identified
When the fleeing driver is never found, you may feel like you're out of options. However, a lawyer can help you access benefits through your own auto insurance. Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is not mandatory in Florida, but if you have it, it can cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical care
Your insurer may not offer a fair settlement without legal pressure. A lawyer can negotiate with them to ensure your policy works the way it’s supposed to.
3. The Insurance Company Delays or Denies Your Claim
Whether you’re dealing with your own insurer or a third-party provider, claim denials and delays are common. Insurance companies often look for ways to limit payouts, especially in hit-and-run situations where liability is harder to establish. If your claim is undervalued, denied outright, or stuck in limbo, legal representation can force action.
4. You're Being Asked to Give a Recorded Statement
Insurers may request that you provide a recorded statement soon after the accident. While this may seem like a routine step, your words can be used against you to deny coverage or reduce your payout. A lawyer can handle communications on your behalf and protect you from unintentionally damaging your claim.
5. You're Unsure About the Legal Deadlines
Florida’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the crash. However, insurance-related deadlines can be much shorter. For example, your PIP claim may need to be filed within 14 days to qualify for benefits. Missing key deadlines can make it impossible to collect compensation later.
What a Lawyer Can Do for You After a Hit-and-Run
Working with a personal injury lawyer doesn’t just help you file paperwork—it strengthens your entire case. Attorneys familiar with Florida hit-and-run claims can:
- Review your insurance policies to identify all potential sources of compensation
- Gather evidence such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and crash reports
- Coordinate with police or investigators to locate the at-fault driver
- Handle negotiations with your insurer and represent you in settlement talks
- File a lawsuit on your behalf if a fair resolution can’t be reached
Even if the driver is never identified, your attorney can build a compelling case against your own insurance provider to secure the compensation you need.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Hit-and-Run
Even before hiring a lawyer, there are several things you can do to protect your rights:
- Call 911 immediately. A police report is vital for both insurance and legal purposes.
- Seek medical attention. Your health comes first, and timely treatment helps document your injuries.
- Document the scene. If possible, take photos of your vehicle, road conditions, and any damage.
- Gather witness information. Eyewitnesses may be key in identifying the fleeing driver.
- Notify your insurance company. Report the crash promptly, but avoid detailed statements until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
These early steps can provide a strong foundation for any legal or insurance claim that follows.
Florida Penalties for Hit-and-Run Drivers
If the driver who fled the scene is eventually identified, they may face serious criminal charges under Florida law. Penalties for leaving the scene of an accident can include:
- Misdemeanor charges for property damage only
- Felony charges for crashes involving injuries or death
- License suspension and possible jail time
- Fines and restitution to victims
While criminal charges won’t directly compensate you, they may help support a civil lawsuit and demonstrate negligence.
Call Brandon J. Broderick for Legal Help
Being the victim of a hit-and-run crash in Florida can leave you with more questions than answers, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we help accident victims protect their rights, maximize their recovery, and hold insurers accountable. If you’ve been injured in a hit and run, we’ll help you understand your options, file the right claims, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t wait for the system to work itself out—contact our team today for a free consultation. Let us help you move forward with confidence.