Getting in an accident is never an easy experience, and being the victim of a hit and run only makes it worse. It comes out of nowhere, and you might not know what to do in the aftermath. Everything you are used to hearing about with car accidents assumes that the other person isn’t going to run away. So what do you need to do now?
Take Care of Yourself
Your first priority is treating any injuries. Are you bleeding? Does it appear you may have broken bones or whiplash? Is there pain? Are you suffering from shock? Assess your condition and the condition of your passengers so you can properly address any problems. Just as you would in a normal accident, if you are in the middle of the road and our car is still mobile, move it to the side of the road. If it isn’t mobile, get everyone who was in the car to a safe spot so you don’t get hurt any worse.
Write Everything Down
Once everyone is in a safe place, start writing down as many details as you can remember about the accident. You should write down what happened and anything you remember about the car that hit you. The make and model, color, full or partial license plate, and any distinguishing features like stickers or dents can all help the police identify the car that hit you. If there are witnesses who stop to help, ask them to write down anything that they remember as well, in addition to their contact information.
Call the Police
When you contact the police, they will come create a report, just as they would with a normal accident. Don’t leave until they have come, or you won’t have a case against the other driver. The police will collect the information you have written down and use that find the other driver.
Call Your Insurance
It is crucial to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. If the hit-and-run driver cannot be identified, your insurance may cover any damages or injuries that occurred. Additionally, your insurance company will want the other driver’s insurance to pay them back, so they will also attempt to find the other driver. The more eyes out looking, the more likely it is that the other driver will be found.
Get Legal Help
In some cases, the victim’s insurance company is able to provide coverage and pay for your injuries, it doesn’t always work that way. According to Page Law, even if the other driver is convicted, you might not necessarily get a settlement unless you file a personal injury lawsuit. This will allow you to receive full compensation from the person who actually hurt you.
Hit-and-run accidents are complicated and messy, and it can be incredibly difficult to figure out. If you are struggling, don’t be afraid to lean on other people for help.