AAA Report: Hit-and-Run Deaths Continue to Increase

AAA Report: Hit-and-Run Deaths Continue to Increase

Hit-and-run crashes are responsible for causing injuries and deaths in the Bay Area each year. Several recent hit-and-run crashes in the Bay Area can serve as examples. Last month, a hit-and-run driver in Oakland caused one death and two injuries. Another hit-and-run last month in Santa Clara critically injured a man. Police later apprehended the driver. A third recent hit-and-run in San Jose was caught on camera. According to a new AAA report, fatal hit-and-run crashes increase by more than 7 percent each year. The report claims that between 2009 and 2016, hit-and-run deaths increased by 60 percent. A majority of fatal hit-and-runs involve cyclists and pedestrians. The report found that bicyclists and pedestrians accounted for 65 percent of hit-and-run deaths since 2009. AAA did not determine why fatal hit-and-run crashes are increasing. Safety advocates responded to AAA’s report with their own theories. According to a recent Washington Post article on AAA’s report, there could be several reasons why hit-and-run deaths are increasing. The article claims there are more bicyclists, pedestrians and vehicles on the road. Distracted driving could also be a reason why hit-and-run crashes are increasing. Safety advocates interviewed for the article claim some drivers may be so distracted by their phones that they are unaware when they strike bicyclists and pedestrians.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Crash

You may be able to take several steps after a hit-and-run crash that can help police locate the driver. Call the police right away and seek medical attention. Quickly write down or record any details about the vehicle’s make, model and color. Although it could be very difficult to remember or notice, the license plate number could also help police locate the driver. Witnesses or nearby video cameras may also help you obtain this information. There is also a chance that nearby video cameras captured what happened. If a hit-and-run driver caused harm to you or a loved one, then you should speak with a personal injury attorney who has experience handling car accident cases. The Bay Area personal injury attorneys at Golden State Lawyers can help you determine possible options for recovering compensation.