09 Apr Hit and Run Cases

If you are involved in a hit and run accident, it is important to make reasonable efforts to determine the identity of the unknown driver. Failing to do so may result in your case being dismissed.    

In George v. Doe, 2015 BSCS 442, an unknown driver struck Mr. George’s vehicle and then left the scene.  Mr. George’s airbags deployed and his vehicle spun around so he was unable to get out of his vehicle immediately.  It was dark so Mr. George was unable to see the driver or his licence plate.

Mr. George relied upon his cousin and lawyer to take any steps himself to find the unknown driver.  They reported the incident to the police and ICBC within 24 hours.  They also put up signs seeking witnesses to the accident in the area and placed an ad on Craigslist.

At trial the Court found that Mr. George could rely on his cousin and lawyer’s actions to establish that he had taken reasonable steps to identify the unknown driver.  However, the Court cautioned that it would be preferable to take those steps oneself, in order to avoid the risk that the actions taken by others were inadequate. 

The Court assessed Mr. George’s personal injury claim and awarded him $98,700 in damages.