What Should I Do Following a Hit and Run?
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Hit and run accidents are, unfortunately, more common than you might think. When you’re hit by another vehicle and the driver simply drives away, it can be frustrating. You may feel like nothing can be done, so you don’t even bother to call the police if you can still drive your car. However, that’s not the best idea. Here are some of the things you should do after a hit and run so you have a better chance of getting the compensation you deserve.
Write Down Any Information You Can
Once you’ve made certain that you’re safe, write down as much as you can about the other vehicle. Do this quickly because you may forget important details, especially once you start talking to the police. One of the best things you can do is make notes on your phone. You can even start taking video and narrate what happened while capturing the accident scene. Important information you need includes the car’s license plate, if possible, the make and model, the color, the location and the time, and which way the driver drove after leaving the scene.
You’ll also want to get the contact information for any witnesses. Many times, people nearby will come forward to give you information about what they saw. Even if you missed the license plate number, one of these witnesses may have got it. Ask if they will provide information to the police and get their name, address, and phone number.
Call the Police
Next, get the police involved. Tell them what happened and that you want to file an accident report. If you’re injured, call 911 so that you can also have the dispatcher send an ambulance to the scene. Provide the police with all of the information you’ve gathered.
File a Claim with Your Insurance
Call your insurance company and file a claim. If you’re able to track down the driver, your insurance company can likely get the person’s insurance information so you can file with their company. Many people who do hit and runs leave the scene because they are driving without insurance. To protect yourself against that, you may want to consider adding uninsured motorist coverage to your policy.
Were you in a hit and run? If you were and need assistance with the legal aspects of these accidents, Held & Hines LLP is here to help. Contact us today with the details of your accident.
Posted in: Car Accidents, Personal Injury, Uncategorized
