Although it is illegal to do so under South Dakota law, some drivers cause accidents and flee the scene without stopping to call the police or to help get medical care for the victims. This can make obtaining compensation challenging for the victims since they must have the contact information for the negligent driver to file a claim. Why do drivers engage in this irresponsible and criminal behavior? Hit-and-run accidents

Why Do Negligent Drivers Flee the Scene of the Accident?

Hit-and-run drivers come from all cross-sections of society and income levels. They can be students, stay-at-home moms, bankers, doctors, business people, criminals, and much more. Their main objective is trying not to get caught. Drivers do this for a variety of reasons, including:

  • The driver is intoxicated either due to alcohol or drug use.
  • The driver has no minimum automobile liability insurance as required under South Dakota law.
  • The driver stole the vehicle or is driving it without permission.
  • The driver does not have a valid driver's license, or it has been suspended.
  • The driver is driving an employer-owned vehicle and does not want his employer to know that he got into a crash.
  • The driver has an outstanding warrant for his arrest for unpaid tickets or crimes.
  • The driver is in this country illegally.
  • The driver is transporting some type of illegal goods or drugs.

Some of these reasons suggest the hit-and-run driver would not have the means to pay the compensation you may be owed; however, you shouldn’t assume that just because the driver can’t be located, you won’t receive compensation. A concerned witness may remember enough identifying information, such as a partial or complete license plate number, to help the police or an experienced attorney locate the driver and hold him accountable for his actions.

If you were injured in a hit-and-run or other accident, the experienced auto accident attorneys at Northern Plains Justice are here to help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation to get your questions answered, and learn about your legal options.