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Charlotte Amalie
Thursday, March 28, 2024
HomeNewsArchivesCrime Stoppers: Avoid Becoming a Victim of a Hit-and-Run

Crime Stoppers: Avoid Becoming a Victim of a Hit-and-Run

Over the last five years there have been 17 individuals who have lost their lives walking or crossing Virgin Islands roadways in which the drivers who struck them never even stopped.

Leaving the scene of an accident is a misdemeanor when there are no injuries. If injury or death occurs, the penalty could be greater. After a motor vehicle accident, laws require the drivers involved to follow set procedures, including the exchange of identifying information.

In the case of personal injury, it is the duty of all parties to seek medical attention for injured individuals and to remain at the scene until released by authorities. In fatal collisions, fault may not lie with the party striking the victims so a criminal charge would not automatically result.

However, even when not at fault, some drivers will flee and thereby bring charges upon themselves, even though they were not responsible for the collision. This driver is known as a hit-and-run driver, one who is guilty of fleeing the scene of an accident to avoid being identified.

According to one hit-and-run survivor, “hit and run is a cowardly and heinous act. … We need to expose it and create awareness. People need to take responsibility for their actions and be aware that, if they do hit someone and flee the scene, the end result is much worse. … Additionally those that witness a hit and run should step forward to report it.”

Help reduce future hit-and-runs by telling Crime Stoppers what you know about unsolved crimes at www.CrimeStoppersUSVI.org or by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You can also text “USVI” plus your message to CRIMES (274637).

To reduce the risk of becoming the victim of a hit-and-run, pedestrians should obey all traffic signals; look right, then left, and then right again before crossing the street, even when in a crosswalk.

Do not assume drivers see you because you see them; remain aware of cars as they approach and pass you. If you must walk on the highway where there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic and as far away from the roadway as possible. If walking at night, please wear light-colored or reflective clothing.

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