The Hawaii Star Advertiser reports that a 73-year-old Paia man has been arrested for his suspected involvement in a fatal Hawaii hit-and-run can accident. Maui police were able to identify the suspect after finding his vehicle in Skill Village. Hawaii police determined that the Mitsubishi had recently been in a car crash and believed that the man was responsible for Sunday's hit-and-run collision.
Pursuant to Hawaii law, stopping to render aid as soon as possible after an accident involving serious bodily injury or death is considered a felony. In fact, even where a serious personal injury is not involved, drivers must stop and exchange basic information whenever an accident involving personal injury or property damage occurs. The failure to do so is considered a hit-and-run and the driver may be subject to criminal penalties.
In addition to criminal penalties, where hit-and-run accidents lead to personal injuries, those injured may file a civil lawsuit to recover damages. In these situations, it is important to seek the advice of a top Hawaii personal injury attorney right away in order to provide you the best opportunity to successfully determine who may be responsible in a car crash and seek to recover damages against the responsible party. More often than not, drivers who cause car crashes and flee the scene are identified. They may leave telltale clues at the scene or other bystanders and witnesses may provide identifying information. Other times, the drivers may come forward of their own account, after the immediate panic of the accident has passed.
However, even if you are not able to identify the driver in a hit and run car accident, you still may be able to recover damages for your injuries. Many times, an individual's own un- or underinsured motorist policy will cover damages for injuries sustained in a hit-and-run accident.
Typical injuries may include:
• Head and neck injuries
• Brain injuries
• Broken bones
• Cuts and bruises
• Wrongful death
Working with an experienced Hawaii personal injury lawyer right away may be the best way to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to if you or a loved one has been injured in a hit and run accident.
For more information, contact the skilled Hawaii car accident attorneys at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.
