The holiday season is a busy time on Florida’s roads, with more cars, distractions, and unfortunately, reckless driving. A recent hit-and-run accident in Boynton Beach highlights just how reckless drivers can be. According to a Palm Beach Post report, a man lost his life while pushing a wheelchair across the street early one Saturday morning, just days before Christmas. Around 2 a.m., a minivan struck the pedestrian near the road’s center line. Instead of stopping, the driver kept going and fled the scene. Police later identified the driver, and are still investigating the crash details. Fleeing the scene of an accident carries serious consequences that no driver can escape.
Hit-and-Run Accidents in Florida
Hit-and-run accidents are alarmingly commonplace in Florida, accounting for nearly a quarter of all crashes. According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department (FLHSMV), 2023 alone saw 104,273 hit-and-run crashes—only a 1% decrease from the previous year. Pedestrians and bicyclists are especially vulnerable, making up 76% of all hit-and-run fatalities. An overwhelming number (over 81%) of these incidents occur during the most dangerous times of day: dawn, dusk, and nighttime.
Florida law is clear: drivers involved in a crash must stop immediately. Failing to do so can result in severe penalties, including felony charges, jail time, and license revocation. Despite common factors like distracted or impaired driving, there is no excuse for fleeing the scene. Understanding these laws and their consequences is essential for every driver.
Contact Schwed, Adams & McGinley
If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run accident, the attorneys at Schwed, Adams & McGinley are here for you. We will fight for your rights. Our dedicated team has over 200 years of combined experience, making our firm well-equipped to handle even the most complex personal injury cases. We are passionate about helping car accident victims, including those impacted by hit-and-run crashes, secure the compensation they deserve. Call us today at 877-694-6079 or email [email protected] for a free consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and get the justice you need.
