When someone’s reckless or careless conduct leads to a car crash, the law imposes certain responsibilities.
DRIVER CONDUCT AT THE SCENE OF THE ACCIDENT
First, regardless of whether someone is killed, injured, or there is just vehicular damage, the person who caused the crash must immediately stop at the scene or as close to the scene as possible. Under Alaska law, the driver must give identifying information to the person who was hit. This information includes the following:
- Their name;
- Their address;
- The vehicle license number.
Second, the driver who caused the accident must render aid and assistance. This can include calling an ambulance, if required. Failure to comply with these requirements is a criminal offense, punishable by imprisonment for up to a year as well as up to a $500 fine. When the person fails to assist someone who has been injured, punishment can be up to 10 years in prison, and a fine of up to $10,000.
DRIVER CONDUCT AFTER THE ACCIDENT
When somebody hurts you in in a car wreck, they owe you compensation for:
- Property Damage to your vehicle;
- Lost wages;
- Medical bills; and
- Pain / Suffering / Disability.
Find Help After the Accident
An Alaskan personal injury attorney will help recover damages owed to you. This is not something you should do alone. When you’ve been injured in an accident, you should spend your time and energy focused on your complete medical recovery. Let the worry of handling related claims fall on the shoulders of a personal injury attorney.
At Merdes Law Office, we have extensive experience helping car accident victims. We know how to properly calculate your lost wages. Additionally, we can help you recover costs associated with your treatment. This includes bills for ambulance transport, doctor visits, surgeries, X-Rays, and MRIs. Did you know it also includes mileage to and from the doctor? Physical therapy? Prescriptions? You are entitled to be compensated for your pain and suffering. Finally, if you are disabled and cannot make a complete recovery, you are entitled to be compensated for related disability losses.
CONTACT US
If you are hurt in a car wreck, you need an Alaska personal injury attorney who knows Alaska law. Somebody who knows what he/she is doing – and is honest. At Merdes Law Office, we will listen and tell you where we think you stand. Contact us for a free consultation at 907.452.5400 or visit www.Merdes.com for further information.
Merdes Law Office has been helping Alaskans for more than 30 years. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do.
