A hit-and-run crash is one of the most frustrating and frightening experiences a driver can face. You’re left dealing with the shock of the collision, damage to your car, and possible injuries, all while the person responsible disappears.

In Huntsville, hit-and-run accidents happen on busy roads like Memorial Parkway, University Drive, and I-565, as well as in dense traffic areas near Research Park, Bridge Street, Downtown Huntsville, and neighborhoods in Madison County. Whether the crash happens at a major intersection like Sparkman Drive or on a quiet residential street, being struck by a driver who flees leaves victims feeling uncertain about what to do next.

Even though these crashes are complicated, you still have options. Alabama law provides protections for victims, and with the right steps and proper legal help, you can pursue compensation even if the other driver tries to avoid responsibility.

Tyler Mann Injury Law knows the devastating physical and emotional impact of hit-and-run crashes all too well. We’ve helped many Huntsville residents move forward after these types of car accidents, and we can help you, too. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Why Do Some At-Fault Drivers Leave Crash Scenes?

Most drivers know they’re legally required to stop after a collision, but some still choose to flee. Their reasons often stem from fear, panic, or an attempt to avoid legal or financial consequences.

Common motivations drivers have for leaving the scene of a crash without speaking to the injured victims or waiting for police include the following:

  • Fear of Legal Trouble: Some drivers immediately worry about getting ticketed or arrested, especially if they think they caused the crash.
  • Driving Without a License or Insurance: Uninsured or unlicensed drivers often flee because they fear the penalties for being caught.
  • Impaired Driving: People who have consumed alcohol or drugs may leave to avoid potential DUI charges. Severely intoxicated drivers may not even realize they struck another vehicle or were involved in an accident.
  • Outstanding Warrants: A driver who knows they have legal issues pending may run to avoid police interaction.
  • Panic or Confusion: Not every hit-and-run involves malicious intent. Some drivers panic, especially young or inexperienced drivers, and keep going out of fear even when they know stopping is required.

Regardless of the reason, leaving the scene is illegal and puts victims in an unfair position physically, financially, and emotionally.

What Counts as a Hit-and-Run in the Eyes of the Law in Alabama?

Alabama law requires drivers involved in a crash to take specific steps before they may legally leave the scene.

A driver who fails to do these things may be considered to have committed a hit-and-run.

  • Stopping at or Returning Immediately to the Scene: The law requires drivers to bring their vehicle to a stop at the location of the accident or, if necessary, return as close to it as safely possible.
  • Exchanging Identifying Information: Drivers must provide their name, address, and vehicle registration information to the other parties involved.
  • Providing Reasonable Assistance: This can include calling emergency services, arranging transportation to medical care, or helping injured individuals get the assistance they need.
  • Reporting the Crash to Law Enforcement: If injuries or significant property damage are involved, the driver must notify police. In Huntsville, this typically means contacting the Huntsville Police Department, Madison Police Department, or the Madison County Sheriff’s Office.

Failing to follow any of these requirements may result in criminal charges and additional civil liability that goes beyond their initial contribution to the crash.

What Should I Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

After a hit-and-run in Huntsville, you may feel overwhelmed, especially if the other driver sped off before you could gather any information. Taking the right steps immediately after the crash can help protect your health and your ability to pursue compensation.

  • Call 911. Even if the crash seems minor, reporting it ensures law enforcement arrives promptly to assess the accident and begin searching for the driver. Huntsville police officers or deputies with the Madison County Sheriff’s Office can create an official crash report, which may be essential for your claim.
  • Document everything. Take photos of vehicle damage, the roadway, traffic signals, and any debris that may have come from the fleeing vehicle. These details can help investigators later.
  • Write down what you remember. Details fade quickly, so note the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, color, direction of travel, or partial plate number if you saw it.
  • Look for witnesses. People nearby may have seen the other driver or captured video on a doorbell cam, dashboard cam, or cell phone. Getting witness contact information is invaluable.
  • Check for nearby cameras. Huntsville has traffic and security cameras throughout the city. Businesses near University Drive, Governors Drive, or major intersections often have surveillance that can capture the fleeing car.
  • Notify your insurer. Report the crash promptly, but avoid giving recorded statements until you speak with an attorney.
  • Contact an attorney. An experienced Huntsville car accident lawyer can help track down crash footage, locate witnesses, and work with law enforcement to identify the at-fault driver.

Where Should I Get Medical Treatment After a Hit-and-Run Crash?

Even if you feel okay after the collision, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Side-impact injuries, whiplash, and head trauma may not show symptoms immediately.

Huntsville offers several hospitals and emergency departments equipped to treat crash-related injuries, including:

  • Huntsville Hospital: As a Level I trauma center, Huntsville Hospital provides comprehensive trauma evaluation, imaging, surgery, and emergency care for serious injuries.
  • Crestwood Medical Center: This hospital operates a Level III trauma emergency department and offers quick access to imaging and orthopedic services, which often benefit hit-and-run victims.
  • Madison Hospital: Located conveniently for Madison residents, this hospital provides emergency evaluations, imaging, and stabilization for crash victims needing prompt care.
  • Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children: This facility is equipped to treat children and pregnant passengers injured in hit-and-run crashes.
  • Urgent Care in Huntsville: Urgent care centers can treat moderate injuries, provide imaging referrals, and document early symptoms, which is important for your claim.

Getting prompt treatment not only protects your health but also establishes a medical record that supports your injury case.

What Will Happen to the Hit-and-Run Driver if They’re Found?

If the fleeing driver is located, they may face both criminal and civil consequences. Criminal penalties depend on the circumstances of the crash.

  • Misdemeanor Charges: These may apply if the hit-and-run involved property damage but no injuries. Penalties can include fines, license suspension, and possible jail time.
  • Felony Charges: If someone was injured or killed and the driver fled, felony hit-and-run charges may follow. Penalties include higher fines, a lengthy license suspension, and potential prison sentences.
  • Additional Charges: The driver may face charges such as DUI, reckless driving, or driving without insurance, depending on the circumstances.

These criminal charges are separate from your civil claim, which focuses on helping you recover compensation.

Can I Still Sue the Hit-and-Run Driver if They’re Being Criminally Charged?

Yes. A criminal case focuses on punishing the wrongdoer, while a civil case seeks to compensate the victim. These two legal processes happen independently of one another.

Even if the driver is arrested and prosecuted, you may file a claim or lawsuit against them seeking compensation for your injuries, lost income, property damage, and other losses. Evidence from the criminal case, such as police reports or witness statements, may even strengthen your civil claim. The legal team at Tyler Mann Injury Law can help ensure your rights are protected during both processes.

How Can a Lawyer Help Me After a Hit-and-Run Crash?

A hit-and-run crash can feel like an uphill battle, especially when you don’t know who caused it or how to move forward. An experienced attorney at our firm can make a big difference by handling the legal work and investigation for you. Here’s how a lawyer can support you:

  • Helping Locate the Driver: Your attorney will work with investigators, examine surveillance footage, gather witness statements, and look for physical evidence that may help identify the fleeing driver.
  • Pursuing Every Possible Source of Compensation: Your attorney will review your insurance policy, including uninsured motorist coverage, to ensure every available avenue is used to secure compensation.
  • Building a Strong Injury Claim: Your attorney will gather medical records, documentation of lost income, and evidence of pain and suffering to support your claim.
  • Handling Insurance Communications: Your attorney will take over communication with insurers so you don’t have to navigate complicated questions or tactics aimed at minimizing your settlement.
  • Representing You in Negotiations or Court: Your attorney will advocate for a fair settlement and, if necessary, pursue your case in court to obtain the compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Huntsville Hit-and-Run Car Crash Lawyers

If you were hurt in a hit-and-run crash in Huntsville or the surrounding areas, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone.

Tyler Mann Injury Law understands how overwhelming these situations can be, and we’re here to help you find answers, uncover evidence, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us stand up for your rights.