Being involved in a hit and run accident can be a stressful and confusing experience. The shock of being hit by another vehicle and then watching the driver flee away without stopping can leave you feeling helpless.
You may wonder, “What should I do next?”
Understanding the immediate steps to take is the best thing to do to deal with a hit and run accident. It can help protect your rights and increase your chances of finding the person responsible for the accident.
Here in this blog, we will discuss what to do after a hit and run accident.
Check for Injuries and Ensure Safety
The first and foremost thing is to make sure you and the passengers in your vehicle are safe. Check if you suffer any injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately and request medical assistance. If you are able to move, get to a safe area to avoid further risk of an accident.
Even if you don’t feel injured immediately, it is wise to have a medical professional evaluate you, as some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not be apparent right away. Prioritize your health and safety above all else.
Call the Police
Even if the damage seems minor, reporting a hit and run to authorities is important. Law enforcement can help you gather evidence, create an official report, and search for the responsible driver. In the United States, leaving the accident scene is illegal, and the police will treat it as a serious offense.
When speaking to the police, provide them with as many details as possible, including:
- The make, model, and color of the vehicle (if you saw it)
- The license plate number (if you can remember it)
- The direction the driver fled
- Any physical descriptions of the driver (age, gender, appearance)
Document the Scene
If you are physically able to do so, take a photo of the accident scene. It includes damage to your vehicle, any visible debris, and the traffic signs at the accident spot. Try to take photos from multiple angles. If there are any skid marks or signs of the other vehicles’ impact, capture them as well. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information.
Avoid Chasing the Fleeing Driver
It can be tempting to chase the driver who fled the scene, but this is dangerous. Driving recklessly to catch up to the fleeing vehicle could result in a crash or further injury.
Additionally, police will have better resources, training, and tools to follow the hit and run driver, so it is always best to leave this to them.
Contact Your Insurance Company
After reporting the incident to the police, notify your insurance company. In cases of hit and run, your insurance policy may cover the costs of damages. Be honest and share all the information with them. Even if you do not have specific coverage for hit and run accidents, your insurance company may be able to help you handle the claim, including repairs to your vehicle.
Seek Legal Advice
Suppose you are struggling to deal with the aftermath of a hit and run accident. It is a good idea to seek assistance from the legal counsel. An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you understand your rights.
In some cases, if the driver is located, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages.
Even if the driver is not found, a lawyer may help you handle insurance claims to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Conclusion
Surviving a hit and run accident can leave you uncertain about what to do. However, by following the above steps, you can protect yourself both physically and legally. While the experience can be difficult, taking quick action can significantly impact the outcome of your case and help you recover.
