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Driver Sought in Deerfield Beach Hit-and-Run That Left Pedestrians Seriously Injured
Authorities are asking for the public’s help in locating the driver responsible for a violent hit-and-run crash that left two pedestrians hospitalized with serious injuries late last month.
According to the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), the crash happened around 8:20 p.m. on August 29 in the 1500 block of East Hillsboro Boulevard.
A man and woman were crossing the street when they were struck by a vehicle. Instead of stopping to help, the driver fled the scene, leaving both victims badly injured. They were transported to a local hospital, where they remain in serious condition.
On Wednesday, BSO released a flyer with surveillance images of the suspect vehicle. Investigators believe it to be a red SUV, possibly a Honda Fit, with front right damage from the collision.
A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered for information that leads to the driver’s identification and arrest.
Anyone with information is urged to call BSO’s Traffic Homicide Unit at 954-480-4300 or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers at 954-493-TIPS.
Hit-and-run crashes are devastating because victims are often left without immediate aid that could save their lives. In Florida, leaving the scene of a crash involving injury is a felony offense, and if serious bodily harm or death occurs, penalties can include years in prison, steep fines, and permanent license revocation.
Can Victims Pursue a Legal Claim?
Even if the hit-and-run driver has not yet been caught, victims may still have legal options to pursue compensation:
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): If the victims or their families have this coverage, it can step in when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Florida requires drivers to carry PIP, which may cover part of the medical expenses regardless of fault.
- Civil Claim Once Driver Is Found: If investigators identify the driver, the victims may pursue a lawsuit for damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
Attorneys experienced in hit-and-run cases can also help victims’ families work with insurance companies and law enforcement to ensure all avenues for recovery are explored.
The Broward Sheriff’s Office stressed that community tips are critical in solving cases like this. Even small pieces of information—such as seeing a damaged red SUV in your neighborhood or at a repair shop—could help bring justice to the victims and their families.
This tragic crash highlights the importance of driver responsibility and the devastating consequences when someone flees instead of helping injured victims. As BSO continues its investigation, the community’s assistance may be the key to holding the at-fault driver accountable.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run crash in Florida, you may be entitled to compensation. At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we fight for victims and their families to ensure they get the justice and support they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation about your legal options.