Being involved in a hit and run accident can be a frightening experience, leaving you feeling helpless and angry. It’s natural to want to track down the driver who caused the accident and hold them accountable for their actions.
However, chasing after the other driver is not always the best course of action. In fact, it can lead to even more problems that could have serious consequences for your physical safety and for your personal injury case.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the risks associated with chasing after a hit and run driver and why it’s important to seek help from an experienced Cincinnati car accident lawyer instead.
Table of Contents
Following the Driver Means Leaving the Accident Scene
First of all, chasing the driver who caused a hit and run accident is an offense in itself. It means leaving the scene of the crash. This is illegal in Ohio, as all drivers involved in an accident are required by law to remain at the scene until they have exchanged contact and insurance information with each other.
By following another driver instead of staying put, you risk being charged with a hit and run offense yourself. This could result in fines, points on your license, increased insurance premiums, and even possible jail time.
Moreover, when you leave the accident scene to follow someone else, there’s a chance that important evidence might be lost or destroyed. For example, if there were any witnesses to the accident who saw what happened but didn’t get a chance to talk to you before you left for chasing down the other driver then this can hurt your case later on.
It’s always best to stay calm and collected at an accident scene while calling emergency services immediately followed by getting help from experienced car accident lawyers rather than taking matters into your own hands by going after hit-and-run drivers yourself!
You Risk Suffering another Car Accident
Chasing after a hit and run driver can be incredibly risky, especially if you’re not careful. One of the most significant risks involved is the potential for suffering another car accident. When you choose to follow someone who has already caused an accident, you are putting yourself in harm’s way once again.
The reason for this is that when following another vehicle or driver, your focus becomes divided between two tasks: keeping up with them and paying attention to your surroundings. This means that there’s a higher chance of getting into an accident because your concentration isn’t entirely on driving safely.
Moreover, pursuing another car at high speeds through Ohio traffic increases the likelihood of reckless driving. The other driver could drive aggressively out of fear or anger towards being followed which puts both drivers’ lives in danger.
It’s essential always to prioritize safety during any type of road incident or situation – including hit-and-run accidents. Remember that nothing is worth risking your health and safety over; it’s best to contact law enforcement immediately so they can handle everything accordingly without putting anyone else in jeopardy.
The Hit and Run Driver May Be Armed and Dangerous
One of the biggest risks of chasing after a hit and run driver is that you have no idea what their intentions are. They may be armed and dangerous, making it extremely risky to confront them.
The fact that they fled the scene of the accident indicates that they have something to hide or are not willing to take responsibility for their actions. This can make them unpredictable and potentially violent.
Confronting an individual who is already fleeing from a crime could put you in serious danger, especially if they feel cornered or threatened. You never know how someone will react when they are feeling scared or desperate.
Your safety should be your top concern above all else in these situations. After all, you are already injured, in shock and pain. These are not the right conditions to act on an impulse.
Instead, focus on gathering as much information about the other driver as possible, such as their license plate number and the vehicle’s make and model, so that law enforcement can track them down safely and effectively.
You Risk Making Your Injuries Worse
Chasing the other driver after a hit and run accident is not only risky but can also worsen your injuries. When you get involved in an accident, it’s important to prioritize your health and bodily integrity.
If you’re chasing the other driver, you may be increasing physical activity that could exacerbate any injuries or medical conditions that resulted from the initial crash. For example, if you have a spinal cord injury or whiplash, running after someone could put additional strain on these sensitive areas.
Moreover, pursuing the negligent driver may cause adrenaline to surge through your body which can dull pain sensations at first but lead to more intense discomfort later on. It’s essential to seek medical attention immediately following any car accident regardless of its circumstances.
Therefore, staying safe and seeking help should be everyone’s priority after a crash rather than taking matters into their own hands by chasing down another driver who fled the scene.
You Have No Legal Authority to Detain the Hit and Run Driver
After a hit and run accident, it’s natural to want to pursue the driver who fled the scene. However, it’s important to remember that you have no legal authority to detain them. Attempting to do so can lead to serious consequences for yourself.
When you try to detain someone without proper legal authority, you put yourself at risk of being charged with assault or false imprisonment. Even if your intentions are good, your actions could end up making things worse for both you and the hit and run driver.
It’s also important to remember that detaining someone can be dangerous. You don’t know who this person is or what they’re capable of doing. They may be armed or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, making them unpredictable and potentially violent.
If you want justice after a hit and run accident, rely on experienced Ohio car accident lawyers who will help guide you through the legal process in a safe manner. Don’t put yourself in harm’s way by taking matters into your own hands – leave it up to professionals who have years of experience dealing with these types of situations.
Let an Experienced Cincinnati Car Accident Lawyer Help You!
If you have been involved in a hit and run accident, chasing the other driver may seem like the right thing to do. However, it can put you in danger and potentially make your situation worse. Instead, seek medical attention immediately and contact an experienced Ohio car accident lawyer.
An attorney at Young, Reverman & Bolotin can help you gather evidence, track down the hit and run driver, and hold them accountable for their actions. They can also assist with any legal proceedings related to your case.
Don’t let a hit and run accident go unpunished. Contact our experienced Ohio car accident lawyers today and schedule a free case review!
