In the parking lot of the Erbach hospital: hit-and-run! Police are looking for witnesses!

In the parking lot of the Erbach hospital: hit-and-run! Police are looking for witnesses!

A worrying incident occurred on October 15, 2025 in the parking lot of the district hospital in Erbach. Between 2:00 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., a parked car was damaged and the person who caused it made off without leaving any personal information behind. The current property damage cannot yet be quantified, but the police have already started investigations to locate the unknown driver. The officers at the South Hesse Police Headquarters ask possible witnesses or people with suspicious observations to come forward immediately. Anyone with information can contact the police in Erbach on 06062 / 9530.

In such places it is particularly important to pay close attention to each other - as the police also emphasize in their recommendations for action in the event of a hit-and-run. This includes always stopping in the event of an accident, carefully examining the situation and documenting all relevant details. Photos of the vehicle, license plate, and crime scene are essential. If the injured party is not on site, it is advisable to inform the police and, if necessary, contact witnesses to note their contact details. In Germany, according to Section 142 of the Criminal Code, hit-and-run is a criminal offense and not a minor offense - the penalties can be up to three years in prison or high fines, depending on the severity of the damage.

Important information for witnesses

If you have witnessed such an incident, there are some important points to keep in mind. You should memorize the license plate, model and color of the vehicle well. Without the help of witnesses, it is often very difficult to identify a getaway driver, which the police emphasize in their statement. It is crucial to remain at the scene of an incident to ensure that the injured party and the police are notified in a timely manner. It is also important to know that witnesses who leave the scene do not commit a criminal offense - but they should ensure that their observations are carefully recorded.

Hit and run is punished severely in Germany. The requirements are clear: A driver who leaves after an incident on public roads without providing his or her personal details is guilty of hit-and-run. However, police have listed some exceptions that do not constitute a hit-and-run, such as medical emergencies or not being aware of the accident. However, it is every driver's responsibility to act promptly after an incident. There are a few things to keep in mind to avoid fearing legal consequences. In the event of an accident with material damage of less than 600 euros, you can sometimes face a fine or driving ban. More expensive damages or personal injuries, on the other hand, lead to much harsher sanctions.

In such incidents, it should not be forgotten that a motor vehicle insurance company can refuse to settle the damage if the driver is suspected of hit-and-run. In such a case, it is advisable to contact a traffic law lawyer in good time and act quickly to protect your rights. Evidence such as witnesses, photos or video material are worth their weight in gold in such situations and should definitely be secured.

Stay alert and help increase road safety! Everyone can make a contribution, because a little help from neighbors can often have a big impact - who knows, you might soon be available as a witness to help clear up a traffic situation.