What To Do If You Are Involved In A Hit And Run
Being involved in any car accident is stressful, but a hit and run can feel even more overwhelming. One moment you are trying to process what happened and the next you realize the other driver has sped away without giving you any of their information. You may feel shocked, angry, or helpless, but, as attorneys such as our friends at Johnson & Alday, LLC always emphasize, knowing what to do in those first moments can make a big difference in protecting your health, rights, and chances of recovering damages.
- Prioritize Safety and Check for Injuries
First, make sure you and any passengers are safe. If you are seriously injured, call 911 immediately. If you can, move your vehicle to a safe location out of traffic. Your health and safety come first.
- Call the Police Right Away
In many states, leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, and a police report is crucial for any insurance claim. Call the police as soon as possible and give them all the details you can remember: the make, model, color of the vehicle, license plate number, and any description of the driver. If there are witnesses, ask them to stay and talk to the police.
- Gather as Much Evidence as Possible
Even though the other driver left, you can still gather valuable evidence, such as photos of your vehicle’s damage, the accident scene, skid marks, debris, and any nearby traffic signs or signals. Look around for security cameras, nearby businesses, houses, or doorbell cameras that might have recorded the accident. Get contact information for any witnesses who saw the crash or fleeing vehicle.
A good car wreck lawyer knows that evidence gathered at the scene can be crucial in car accident cases.
- Seek Medical Attention
Even if you think your injuries are minor, see a doctor as soon as you can. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries show up hours or days later, like whiplash or concussions. Medical records also connect your injuries directly to the crash, which is important for a claim.
- Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company promptly and explain that you were the victim of a hit and run. If the at-fault driver cannot be found, your own uninsured motorist coverage may help pay for vehicle damage and medical expenses. Be honest and detailed when reporting the crash but avoid giving recorded statements until you fully understand your rights.
- Talk to an Attorney if You Have Questions
Recovering damages after a hit and run can be more complicated than a typical accident claim, especially if the driver is never found. An experienced attorney can help you explore all possible options for compensation, gather additional evidence, negotiate with your insurance company, and fight for the maximum recovery you are entitled to under your policy.
A hit and run can leave you feeling frustrated and powerless, but you do not have to face it alone. By staying calm, gathering evidence, and knowing your rights, you will be better prepared to protect yourself physically, legally, and financially.