What should I do if I was in a hit-and-run accident?

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be stressful, but there are several important steps you can take to protect yourself and increase the likelihood of tracking down the responsible driver. If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, it’s crucial to remain calm and they educate yourself about what steps you will need to take to unsure you are legally protected.

What is a hit and run accident?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver causes a collision with another vehicle, pedestrian, or property and then leaves the scene without stopping to identify themselves, provide contact or insurance information, or offer assistance if there are injuries. Essentially, it’s when a driver is involved in an accident but fails to fulfill the legal responsibilities required by law, such as exchanging information or reporting the crash to authorities.

Steps you should take after a hit and run accident

Make sure you are safe

If you’re able to and it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to avoid further danger. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Also, assess yourself and passengers for any injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is injured, even if the injuries seem minor at first.

Call the police

It’s crucial to report a hit-and-run to the police right away. Once the police show up on the scene, give them any information you have, including the make, model, and color of the other vehicle, as well as any part of the license plate number you may have seen. The police can file an official report, which will be important for any legal or insurance claims. They will also begin an investigation to try to identify the responsible driver.

Gather documents and witness statements

After calling the policy, document your car’s damage, the surrounding area, and any relevant road conditions, signs, or traffic lights. Also, take pictures of any skid marks or debris, as this could be useful evidence. Also, if you can, note anything that could help identify the other driver or vehicle. This could include their direction of travel, any distinguishing marks or features on the car, or even the time of day and weather conditions.

Look around the area to see if any nearby businesses or traffic cameras may have recorded the incident. If you find any, try to get the footage or ask the police to help you with it. And, if there are any witnesses who saw the accident or the other driver fleeing the scene, get their names and contact information. They may be able to provide valuable testimony about what happened.

Research your state’s hit-and-run laws

Hit-and-run accidents are criminal offenses, and the driver who fled the scene can face serious legal consequences if caught. In many states, these incidents are treated as a hit and run felony, which can result in severe penalties. Many states have specific laws related to hit-and-run accidents, including fines, license suspension, or even jail time for the responsible driver. In some states, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help pay for your damages if the other driver is not found or does not have insurance. Review your policy or ask your insurance company about what’s available to you.

Consider Legal Help

If you are facing significant damages or injuries and the responsible driver is not found, consider speaking with a hit and run attorney like a Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney in Atlanta. They can guide you through your legal options, including seeking compensation from your insurance company or pursuing legal action if needed.

File an Insurance Claim

Notify your insurer about the hit-and-run accident. Depending on your policy, your insurance may cover damages under your uninsured motorist or hit-and-run coverage. They may also guide you through the claims process. Share any photos, police reports, and witness information with your insurance company to help them investigate and process your claim.

Take care of your health

Even if you don’t feel injured right away, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. Some injuries, such as whiplash or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent. Keep detailed records of any medical visits and treatments related to the accident. If you were injured, follow your doctor’s treatment plan, and keep track of any ongoing symptoms or issues.

Seek medical treatment through personal injury protection (PIP) insurance to cover the costs regardless of who was at fault. No fault doctors are familiar with handling accident-related injuries and insurance claims, ensuring you receive proper care while navigating the claims process.

Stay in Touch with the Police

Keep in contact with the police to see if they have any updates on the investigation. In some cases, surveillance footage or tips from witnesses can help identify the responsible driver. Investigations into hit-and-run accidents can take time, but law enforcement may be able to find the driver through vehicle tracking, traffic camera footage, or other means.

Conclusion

A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling frustrated and unsure about what to do next, but following these steps can help protect your safety and increase your chances of recovering damages. It’s important to stay calm, gather as much information as you can, and work closely with the police, insurance company, and any legal professionals to pursue justice.