Hit-and-run accidents are more common than you think.
According to the AAA, a hit-and-run crash happens on U.S. roads every minute. If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you may feel confused and upset. Keep calm and handle the situation wisely. Discover five critical steps to take in such a situation.
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Ensure You’re Safe
Are you and everyone else in your vehicle safe? If someone has injuries, call 911 immediately and ask for medical help. Even if you have minor injuries, medical attention is imperative. An injury may appear minor but have major long-term implications.
Seeking medical attention will help when filing a personal injury claim. You get to document your injuries and demonstrate the seriousness of the issue, both of which are essential when you file a claim. Also, consider the safety of your vehicle. If it’s in a dangerous location after the accident, move it to a safer place to avoid another collision.
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Record Information
Record as much information as possible about the fleeing vehicle and its driver.
You can include:
- The make, model, and color of the car
- The license plate number
- The description of the at-fault driver
- The direction the vehicle is going
Additionally, document the accident scene. Include photos or descriptions of:
- The location
- The things that might have caused the crash (hidden traffic signs or non-working traffic lights)
- The Damage to your vehicle
Written documentation or pictures are necessary when reporting the accident to the police or your insurance company. They help you remember all the vital details that may help your case.
If witnesses are nearby, ask them about what they saw to ensure you don’t miss something. Also, request them to give their statements to the police. Don’t forget to take their contact information in case you or the police need to call them later.
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Report the Crash to the Police
Hitting a car and running away from the scene is a criminal offense. The other driver needs to be held liable, so file a police report. The police will use the information you have gathered, the witness statements, and their own investigation to locate the driver. Also, file the police report as soon as possible. If you wait several days, the police may not be able to help you.
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Notify Your Insurance Company
Your auto insurance company could cover some expenses after the accident. These include the cost of medical bills, vehicle repairs, and transportation. Usually, coverage varies by state and terms in your policy.
Two specific coverages that might help you in this case are:
- Uninsured motorist insurance: This policy covers medical expenses and vehicle damage if the driver responsible for the accident is unknown or doesn’t have insurance.
- Collision coverage: This one pays for your vehicle’s repair or replacement if it collides with another object or rolls over in an accident.
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Speak With Experienced Car Accident Attorneys
Hit-and-run accidents can be complicated. You’re now a witness in an ongoing criminal investigation, and the other driver isn’t present to accept or deny charges. You have to file an insurance claim, and your insurer may not be willing to offer you enough compensation.
You need a competent car accident attorney to hold your hand. They will answer your questions, communicate with insurers, gather more evidence to support your case, connect you with investigators to locate the fleeing driver, and represent you in court (if need be).
Contact our experienced attorneys at Williams & Swee, Ltd. if you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident. We will fight for you to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
