The title refers not to slower times in the year’s Marine Corp Marathon, but to the refreshing new law change that prohibits unscrupulous lawyers and other professionals from obtaining automobile accident reports and harassing accident victims with unwanted calls and visits. The law is referred to as the D.C. Theft and White Collar Crimes Act, but is often referred to as the anti-runner law.
Until this recent law took effect, the District of Columbia was nearly the only place in the country where “runners” could buy accident reports from police departments for the purpose of soliciting accident victims for work. These “runners” often called and visited accident victims early in the morning or late at night. Accident victims are often harassed by multiple “runners.” This offendsive conduct sullied the reputation of all lawyers, including those who conduct their practices with the highest degree of integrity.
The District of Columbia City Council should be congratulated for promulgating the “anti-runner” law, which will protect the citizens of this great city from undue harassment. If you are interested in reading the entire text of the new law, please click here.
We at Regan Zambri & Long worked very hard, alongside other trial lawyers, to put an end to the practice of “runners” in the District of Columbia. We are very proud of our efforts. Notwithstanding the new law, there may be some “runners” that remain undeterred and continue to practice in violation of law. If they do, they will jeopardize their license to practice law and face civil penalties. More importantly, should you or anyone you know become a victim in an accident, be wary of anyone who comes knocking or calling. If you would like to discuss the rights available to automobile accident victims, please feel free to contact us.