Hawaii News reports that a pedestrian sustained serious personal injuries in a hit-and-run accident. The man was crossing the street in a marked cross-walk, when he was struck by a Waimanalo man driving a car. The driver fled the scene, but was later apprehended by police.
The pedestrian remains in critical condition. By law, drivers are required to remain at the scene of an accident where someone has sustained bodily injury – whether another driver, a passenger or a pedestrian. This is true regardless of fault. Fleeing the scene may constitute a misdemeanor of felony, punishable by jail time and fines.
In addition to potential criminal punishment, hit-and-run drivers may be held liable in a civil suit for the injuries and damages caused by the accident. Types of damages could potentially include past and future medical expenses, past and future lost wages, and pain and suffering. In some cases, it may be possible to get punitive damages. Further, even if the driver is not apprehended, you still may be able to recover compensation from your own insurance policy. The best course of action if you have suffered an injury in any type of accident is to consult with a knowledgeable Hawaii personal injury attorney.
For more information or if you have sustained injuries in a Hawaii car accident, please contact the dedicated Honolulu personal injury lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.