(321) 242-7000
In 2025, Brevard County reported 1,633 hit-and-run crashes—that’s about 1 in every 5 crashes in the area—resulting in 6 deaths and 366 injuries. These incidents often occur on busy corridors like I-95, U.S. 1, or high-traffic intersections in Melbourne and surrounding areas, where drivers may flee due to fear, impairment, lack of insurance, or other reasons.
Under Florida Statute 316.061, Florida law strictly prohibits a motorist from leaving the scene of an accident. However, it is an unfortunate reality that it happens much too often. The person may panic because they have a suspended license, are intoxicated or a myriad of other reasons. Regardless of the reason, it is strictly prohibited to leave the scene of a crash.
Legal punishment for leaving the scene of an accident can be severe as listed below:
- Property damage only: Second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days in jail, $500 fine).
- Injury: Second- or third-degree felony (up to 5 years in prison, $5,000 fine, license revocation for at least 3 years).
- Death: First-degree felony (mandatory minimum 4 years in prison, up to 30 years, $10,000 fine, license revocation).
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you are in injured in a hit-and-run accident the priority if your health. Seek medical help right away. If you are calling an emergency help line let them know you are injured so they can send an ambulance your way.
You want to report this accident to the police so that there is a record of the incident and they can work to find the culprit. Try to provide them with as much information about the other party as possible. This includes the time of the accident, what the driver looks like, the make and model of the vehicle, the color of the vehicle and which direction they were heading.
After you have been medically checked out and the police have their report, notify your insurance company of the incident. Provide the police report number and details. Florida is a no-fault state, so your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) covers up to $10,000 in medical bills and lost wages initially, regardless of fault.
Finally, follow up on all medical appointments and contact an attorney. An attorney can help in many ways. They will work diligently to find the identity of the driver in case a lawsuit needs to be filed against them. They will help you manage your case and only get paid if you get paid. Their mission is to make sure you receive as much compensation as possible. They can act on your behalf in negotiations with insurance companies as well.
Hit-and-run accidents can feel isolating and frustrating, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Victims in Brevard County have successfully recovered significant compensation through UM claims or by identifying drivers later.
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run in Melbourne or elsewhere in Brevard County, contact our office today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us at 321-242-7000 for legal assistance.