Police have not released all the details of a five-car pileup that occurred at the intersection of Flamingo and Fort Apache, but made it clear that a hit-and-run driver was to blame. The suspect attempted to flee the area, according to Las Vegas police, but was apprehended nearby. Police have not released any details about the driver.
The intersection and the two roads were closed briefly while police continued their investigation.
WHAT IS A HIT-AND-RUN?
A "hit-and-run" accident occurs when any driver causes a crash with damage to another vehicle or injury to another person then attempts to leave the scene. The driver does not have to "get away" to be charged with hit-and-run, and can even be charged if he or she returns to the scene of the accident. Hit-and-run is illegal in every state, but each state has its own set of penalties for a hit-and-run incident.
In Nevada, Section 484E of the Nevada Revised Statutes states that all drivers have a legal duty to stop at the scene of an accident and render aid if they were involved in the accident and someone is hurt. Failure to do so can result in Category B felony charges, which carry up to 15 years in prison as a penalty as well as a fine of up to $5,000.
WHAT IF I HAVE BEEN THE VICTIM OF A HIT-AND-RUN ACCIDENT?
Hit-and-run accidents are, unfortunately, very common. When they occur, it is important for the victims to exercise their rights to collect damages from the responsible driver. However, it may be difficult to do this if the driver is not caught.
Fortunately, you can purchase uninsured motorist coverage to ensure that you have protection if this happens to you. By buying an uninsured or underinsured motorist policy, you guarantee that funds will be available for your medical care, property damage, lost wages and other expenses if you are injured by a hit-and-run driver. You may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver if he or she is identified, or against any other third party who may be responsible such as a governmental agency or another person involved in the accident.
A car accident attorney from High Stakes Injury Law in Las Vegas can discuss your options with you and help you determine the best way to recover damages from your injuries sustained in a hit-and-run accident.
