Florida has seen an increase of fatal hit-and-run crashes during the last two years. FHP is partnering with the Florida Sheriffs Association, the Florida Police Chiefs Association, Students Against Destructive Decisions and the Florida Department of Transportation to combat the problem. The campaign aims to reduce the number of hit-and-run crashes in Florida by educating drivers on their responsibilities if involved in a crash and the consequences they face if they leave a crash scene.
What to do after a crash:
C.ALL law enforcement.
R.EMAIN calm.
A.TTAIN vehicle, witness and driver information.
S.KETCH the scene, showing vehicle crash locations.
H.ELP the injured.
A few hit-and-run facts for Florida:
Hit-and-run crashes involving fatalities increased from 162 in 2011 to 168 in 2012.
The number of hit-and-run crashes statewide equaled 69,994 in 2012.
Three out of every five fatalities in 2012 were pedestrians struck in hit-and=run crashes.
What does Florida law say?
The driver must immediately stop and remain at the scene, must exchange information and render reasonable assistance to any injured persons.
Leaving the scene of a crash involving a death commits a felony of the first degree and carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in a state correctional facility and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
Leaving the scene of a crash involving injuries commits a felony of the third degree and carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in a state correctional facility and/or a fine up to $5,000.
Leaving the scene involving property damage commits a misdemeanor of the second degree and carries a maximum penalty of 60 days in a county jail and/or fine of $500.
For more information about hit-and-run crash facts and tips, visit http://www.flhsmv.gov/fhp/HitRun/.