In Maryland, hit-and-run accidents refer to incidents in which at least one individual involved in a crash leaves the scene before rendering aid or providing identifying information. These crashes contribute to the pain and suffering and economic burdens of typical injury crashes but can aggravate the severity of a victim’s outcome. The delay or complete lack of medical attention for the victim can lead to deadly consequences. In addition to civil ramifications, those who flee an accident scene can face criminal charges.
An analysis by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Fatal Reporting System (FRS) revealed an increase in fatal hit-and-run accidents. There are many individual, vehicle, and environmental factors that play a role in these accidents. Additionally, researchers apply two primary behavioral theories to drivers who commit hit-and-runs. Under the “rational decision theory,” drivers may decide to flee when they have the opportunity, the incentive, and the time to flee. For instance, drunk driving is more likely to occur at night or when there is limited lighting and fewer witnesses. Similarly, a drunk driver who commits an accident at night may take the opportunity to flee.
For example, a recent article reported on a 3 a.m. Hagerstown drunk driving accident where the driver may have been attempting to flee. Police explained that they saw the driver leaving the scene when they arrived at the accident. Police apprehended the vehicle on the ramp and arrested the driver with DUI. The second car’s driver and one passenger suffered life-threatening injuries. Further, emergency responders transported another passenger to the “shock trauma” unit. Early evidence suggests that both drivers may have been under the influence of alcohol.
Another theory research posits the “personality theory,” which suggests that an underlying personality characteristic might predispose people to both drinking and driving and other criminal behavior, such as leaving the scene of an accident. However, despite these theories, those who suffer injuries in a Maryland drunk or impaired driving accident may seek damages from the at-fault party. An attorney can help an injury victim thwart these behavioral theories that the negligent party may purport during settlement negotiations or litigation. Despite the viability of these defenses, an attorney is a critical resource to ensure that the victim recoups all of the damages the law entitles.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a Maryland Drunk Driving Accident?
If you or someone you love has suffered injuries or died in a serious Maryland DUI accident, contact the Schupak Law Firm. The attorneys at our law firm have extensive experience representing Washington D.C. and Maryland accident vicitms to recover damages after an accident. In addition to Maryland drunk driving cases, our firm handles other traffic accidents, premises liability claims, defective product lawsuits, and medical malpractice claims. The attorneys on our team do not collect a fee unless we win. Contact our office at 240-833-3914 to discuss your rights and remedies.