Hit-And-Run Accident: The Steps You Need To Take If You Are Hit And The Other Driver Flees
According to HG Legal Resources, the number of hit-and-run accidents has increased a whopping 15 percent since 2000. Being involved in a car accident is daunting enough without having to deal with the complications of being in a fender bender where the other driver doesn't stick around. If you're ever involved in a hit and run, here are the next steps you need to take to protect yourself and get the compensation you deserve:
Begin by Making Sure You and the Other Passengers Are Okay
Before you alert the authorities or even attempt to find the other driver, it is vital you make sure that everyone in your car is okay. If there is someone who is seriously injured, contact 9-1-1, immediately. Once you've determined that everyone is okay, go ahead and check the damage to your vehicle.
If your vehicle is damaged and unmovable and you are in the middle of the road, do not stay with your vehicle; instead, find a safe place for you and your passengers. Even if your vehicle can be pulled to the side of the road, it is best to leave it where it is. Remember, you need to gather as much evidence against the other driver as possible – including the position of the accident. The authorities will also want to see the position of the vehicle and gather some evidence of their own.
Contact the Police and Gather Evidence
Your next step must be to contact the police. While you are waiting for the authorities to arrive, begin gathering as much evidence as possible. First, speak to any pedestrians or drivers that are in the area. Ask them to provide their account of the accident, including the make and model of the vehicle that fled. It is vital to gather as much information as possible while it is still fresh in the witnesses' minds.
Next, snap a few pictures of the damage to your vehicle. If you or any passengers sustained injuries, take pictures of them, as well. Additionally, take photos of the position of your vehicle and the surroundings. This will help the police create a more accurate account of what happened, which in turn can help them discover the identity of the other driver.
Once the police arrive, provide them with as much information about the accident as you can remember. This includes the time of the incident and any information you can remember about the other driver. Remember, even the most minor detail can help the police determine the identity of the other driver, which can help you bring them to justice.
Working with Your Insurance Provider
After working with the authorities, your next step should be contacting your insurance provider. Depending on the type of insurance you have and your state of residence, your policy will most likely cover all the costs of the accident, including repairing or replacing your vehicle and covering your medical bills.
For example, if your policy features underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage, any expenses connected with the accident will be covered. Additionally, if you live in a "no-fault" state, your bills will also be covered by your insurance provider. No-fault states, including Kansas, New York, Pennsylvania, and Utah, do not legally assign blame to either party in an accident. If you live in a state that does determine fault in automobile accident, speak with your insurance provider about how to proceed.
Contact an Attorney
Your final step is the most critical: contact a car accident lawyer. If the other driver is identified, an attorney can help you begin the process of filing a lawsuit. This can be a long and arduous road, so don't try to attempt it alone; instead, hire a lawyer to help you get through.
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident is stressful, and the stress is only compounded when you don't know the identity of the other driver. If you are ever involved in a hit and run, don't hesitate to contact an attorney to determine you next steps.