HispanicBusiness

Florida has seen an increase of fatal hit-and-run crashes during the last two years. The Florida Highway Patrol is partnering with the Florida Sheriffs Association, the Florida Police Chiefs Association 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.

"Hit-and-run crashes are a growing problem in Florida," said FHP Director, Col. David Brierton. "Florida had nearly 70,000 hit-and-run crashes last year. We hope the education awareness campaign and our partnerships with Florida law enforcement agencies and FDOT will help us meet our mission goals of traffic safety."

The FHP office in Lake City had a press conference on Monday in response to the campaign. It was conducted by FHP's Public Affairs Officer, Sergeant Tracy Hisler-Pace. Also present and assisting Pace were Corporal Jason Berger, Lt. Mark Boatright and State Attorney of the Third Circuit, Jeff Siegmeister.

"This is a statewide campaign that's beginning (Monday)," said Pace. "The hit/run campaign is aiming to reduce the number of hit/run crashes in Florida."

Pace explained that a hit and run crash could be any number of things such as someone contacting law enforcement about waking up and finding their mailbox hit or destroyed. Pace said they might not have anything to go on in a minor case as that, but that FHP does investigate each one to the best of their ability.

"Mainly what we're focusing on is how bad it's getting with the injuries," said Pace. "And obviously going to the hospital and with the fatalities."

Pace said that the number of fatalities in Florida are becoming a growing problem. She said last year the law enforcement agencies combined in Florida worked nearly 70,000 hit and run traffic crashes. Nearly 17,000 people were injured and 168 people were killed.

"It was an increase from 2011 when we had 162 people killed in hit and run crashes," said Pace.

Pace said there are several different reasons why people might leave the scene of an accident.

"Sometimes they're just scared," said Pace. "They panic, they are possibly impaired."

She said other reasons might include a driver having a suspended license or no license. They might be fugitives wanted for another crime or they may not have car insurance.

"However, leaving the scene of a crash we know just heightens that problem," said Pace. "That's why our campaign is Hit and Run/Bad 2 Worse. Yes, it's bad to be in a crash, but once you leave, you've just heightened your issues."

The consequences of leaving a scene are quite severe.

"Involving death or injury, you obviously commit a felony," said Pace. "That carries with it a maximum term of 30 years in prison or a fine of $10,000 or both."

Pace said that leaving a scene involving property damage is a misdemeanor and can carry a maximum penalty of up to 60 days in jail and a fine up to $500 or both.

"They (Florida Legislature) changed the penalties several years ago, so that if you actually killed someone at the scene, you're better off than fleeing," added Siegmeister.

Pace said that in case you are involved in a crash, you should immediately stop. If you are obstructing traffic and can safely move your vehicle off to the side, then do so. Assist anyone who is injured. Call 911 immediately. Try to get any names, make, model and tags of any vehicles involved. If you have time and are able, even sketch out a simple drawing of what you witnessed.