What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident

A hit-and-run accident is one of the most distressing experiences a driver or pedestrian can go through. When another driver leaves the scene without stopping, it not only creates a legal issue but also leaves you feeling vulnerable, frustrated, and unsure of what to do next. If you find yourself in this situation, knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and securing compensation for damages and injuries.

In this blog, we’ll cover the essential steps to take after a hit-and-run accident to ensure your safety and help you navigate the legal and insurance processes.

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

The first and most important priority after a hit-and-run accident is your safety and the safety of others involved.

• Check for Injuries: If you or anyone else involved in the accident has been injured, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance. Even if you don’t feel hurt, it’s crucial to get checked by a healthcare professional, as some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
• Move to Safety: If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road or to a safer location to avoid further collisions or traffic disruptions.

2. Document the Scene

In a hit-and-run accident, gathering as much information as possible is critical to help law enforcement find the responsible driver and assist in filing your insurance claim. Here’s what you should document:

• License Plate Number (if possible): If you were able to catch a glimpse of the fleeing vehicle’s license plate, write it down immediately.
• Vehicle Description: Take note of the make, model, color, and any distinguishing features of the other vehicle.
• Time and Location: Record the exact time and location of the accident, including the street names and landmarks.
• Photos and Videos: Take pictures of the accident scene, any damage to your vehicle, skid marks, debris, and any injuries you sustained. If you can, take a video of the area.
• Witness Information: If there were any witnesses to the hit-and-run, ask for their contact information and a brief statement about what they saw.

3. Report the Accident to the Police

After documenting the scene, contact the police to report the hit-and-run accident. A police report will be essential for your insurance claim and may increase the chances of identifying the fleeing driver.

• Provide Details: Share all the information you gathered with the police, including the vehicle’s description and any witness statements.
• Get a Copy of the Report: Make sure to request a copy of the police report for your records. This document will be crucial when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

After reporting the accident to the police, you should immediately notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run. Provide them with all the documentation and details you’ve gathered.

• Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault driver cannot be identified, you may need to rely on your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. UM coverage can help cover the costs of medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other damages resulting from the hit-and-run.
• Collision Coverage: If you do not have UM coverage, your collision insurance may help cover vehicle damage, but you may still be responsible for the deductible.

Be sure to review your insurance policy to understand what coverage you have and what it entails in hit-and-run situations.

5. Seek Legal Assistance

Hit-and-run accidents can be complicated, especially if the driver responsible is not identified. In such cases, it’s essential to seek the guidance of an experienced car accident attorney who can help protect your rights and explore all available options for compensation.

• Investigation: A hit-and-run accident lawyer can conduct a thorough investigation, working with law enforcement, reviewing traffic camera footage, and speaking to witnesses to help identify the driver responsible.
• Filing a Claim: Your lawyer can also assist in filing an insurance claim and negotiating with the insurance company to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
• Legal Representation: If the driver is identified, you may be able to pursue legal action against them. A hit-and-run lawyer can represent you in court, helping you seek compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

6. Keep Records of All Expenses

After a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to keep track of all expenses related to the incident, as this documentation will be crucial when seeking compensation.

• Medical Bills: Keep records of all medical treatments, hospital visits, and rehabilitation expenses.
• Vehicle Repairs: Save receipts for vehicle repairs and any related costs, such as towing or rental cars.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, document any lost wages due to time off work.

These records will help ensure that you are fully compensated for your damages.

Contact Dolinsky Law Group

A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling helpless, but taking the right steps immediately after the incident can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. From gathering evidence and notifying the police to working with your insurance company and seeking legal assistance, each step is critical in protecting your rights and recovering the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, Dolinsky Law Group is here to help. Our experienced team of hit-and-run accident lawyers will guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Let’s Get You Every Dollar You Deserve!

Dolinsky Law Group is a leading injury law firm, committed to representing those injured in accidents and their families. With a focus on quick results, justice, and client well-being, the firm offers full-scale legal services combined with a personalized approach to assist clients in rebuilding their lives following injury. The accomplished legal team at Dolinsky Law Group has a success record of servicing clients for over three decades in many locations, including Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Ohio, and Indiana.

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, please contact Dolinsky Law Group at (800) 474-4089, visit our website at https://www.duejustice.com/.