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Hit and Run Accidents in Missouri

Hit and run accidents in Missouri can leave victims devastated and unsure of where to turn for help. A hit and run occurs when a driver flees an accident without stopping to provide necessary information or assistance to those involved. At McShane & Brady, our team of personal injury attorneys understands the complexities of these cases and the challenges victims face. We are dedicated to fighting for the rights of those injured in hit and run accidents in our Kansas City community, in Missouri and Kansas. We are dedicated to helping our clients seek justice and compensation for their injuries and losses. If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit and run accident in the Kansas City area, contact us for experienced legal representation and support.

What Is a Hit and Run Accident in Missouri?

In Missouri, a hit and run accident refers to a situation where a driver involved in a collision with another vehicle, a pedestrian, cyclist, or property leaves the scene without stopping to provide necessary information or assistance. Necessary information typically includes their name, contact details, and insurance information. Hit and run accidents are illegal and can result in serious consequences for the fleeing driver. 

Victims of hit and run accidents often face difficulties in obtaining compensation for their injuries and property damage since the responsible party has fled the scene. It’s essential if you’re involved in a hit and run accident in Missouri, to report it to the authorities and seek legal assistance to protect your rights and pursue appropriate recourse.

Misdemeanor Leaving the Scene of an Accident

Hit and run accidents in Missouri can involve various levels of crime, depending on the circumstances surrounding the incident. Leaving the scene of an accident that didn’t result in injury to another party is considered a misdemeanor offense under Missouri law. This offense can carry penalties such as fines, license suspension, and potential jail time, depending on the amount of property damage.

Felony Leaving the Scene of an Accident

In cases where the hit and run accident leads to injuries or fatalities, the severity of the crime escalates significantly. Missouri law categorizes these incidents as felonies, which can result in harsher penalties, including substantial fines, prison sentences, and revocation of driving privileges.

Aggravating Circumstances

There are additional circumstances that can escalate the severity of a hit and run accident in Missouri. For example, if the driver involved in the hit and run accident was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the incident, they may face additional charges such as driving while intoxicated (DWI) or vehicular manslaughter, significantly increasing the severity of the legal consequences.

Ultimately, the level of crime involved in hit and run accidents in Missouri is determined by factors such as the extent of injuries or damages, the driver’s behavior after the accident, and any aggravating circumstances such as intoxication. Seeking legal guidance is crucial for injured victims of hit and run accidents. Seeking the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney is vital, to navigate the legal complexities of obtaining the appropriate compensation for your injuries.

What To Do If You Are Injured in a Hit and Run Accident in Missouri

Finding the responsible party in a hit and run accident can be very challenging. If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident in Missouri, it’s crucial to take immediate steps to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Here are some steps that we recommend you take: 

  • Collect Information – Unless your injuries require immediate medical attention, it is very helpful to gather evidence from the accident scene, if possible. Take photographs of the damage to your vehicle, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. If there were witnesses to the accident, obtain their contact information as their statements may be valuable for your case.
  • Report the Accident – Next, report the hit and run accident to the authorities as soon as possible. Provide as much detail as you can about the incident, including any information you remember about the vehicle that fled the scene.
  • Seek Medical Attention – First and foremost, seek medical attention for your injuries, even if they seem minor at the time. Your health and well-being are paramount, and documenting your injuries will also strengthen your case.
  • Contact Our Personal Injury Experts – Contact our experienced personal injury attorneys at McShane and Brady for assistance. We’ll help you navigate the legal process, investigate the hit and run incident, and work tirelessly to identify the responsible party and hold them accountable for your injuries and losses. For additional information about the process of meeting with a personal injury attorney, read our recent article Meeting With Your Kansas City Personal Injury Attorney.

McShane & Brady Will Fight For Your Rights

Remember, you have rights as an injured victim of a hit and run accident in Missouri, and we’re here to fight for justice on your behalf. Our dedicated personal injury attorneys have almost 40 years of combined experience in personal injury law and an extensive record of success in securing compensation for our clients. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about how we can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with us by calling (816) 888-8010 or by completing our online form. We look forward to hearing from you.