What Do I Do After a Hit and Run Accident?

• 10 Jul 2024
• Car Accident

Imagine driving home when another car hits you out of nowhere and then speeds off. It’s a scary situation, and you might wonder, “What do I do in a hit-and-run case?” Unfortunately, hit and run accidents happen more often than we’d like. Knowing what happens in a hit and run case and the steps to take can make all the difference. Whether you’re dealing with damage to your car or just the stress of the moment, it’s important to act quickly and carefully. Let’s review the immediate steps you should take after a hit and run and how long these cases can stay open.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident

Here’s what you should do right away to protect yourself and your rights:

1. Stay Calm and Secure the Scene

Try to Stay Calm: It’s normal to feel upset, but staying calm will help you think clearly.

Move to a Safe Spot: If your car can still move, get to the side of the road or a safe area. Turn on your hazard lights to warn other drivers.

Check for Injuries: Make sure you and any passengers are okay. This is the most important step.

Staying calm and safe is your first priority after an accident.

2. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Help

Call 911: Even if no one seems hurt, calling for help is important. Emergency responders can make sure everyone is okay and secure the area.

Check Again for Injuries: Sometimes injuries aren’t obvious right away. If you or anyone else feels pain, seek medical help immediately.

Get Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s smart to see a doctor. Some injuries can show up later.

Your health and safety come first, so don’t skip this step.

3. Document the Scene

Take Pictures: Use your phone to take pictures of your car, the accident scene, and any damage.

Write Down Details: Jot down anything you remember about the other car, like the color, make, model, or license plate number.

Look for Witnesses: If anyone saw what happened, ask for their contact information. They might be able to help later.

Detailed information will help you report the accident and deal with insurance.

4. Report the Accident to the Police

Call the Police: Reporting the accident is important, especially in a hit-and-run case. The police will take your statement and file a report.

Give All the Details: Share everything you remember about the accident and the other car with the police. Even small details can help.

Get a Copy of the Report: Ask for a copy of the police report. This will be important for your insurance claim and any legal actions.

Reporting to the police creates an official record of the incident, which is crucial.

5. Gather Evidence

Check for Cameras: Look around for any traffic or security cameras that might have recorded the accident. If there are, tell the police about them.

Collect Witness Info: If anyone witnessed the accident, ask them to state the police.

Write Down What Happened: Write down everything you remember about the accident as soon as you can. This will help keep the details fresh.

Gathering evidence can make a big difference in identifying the driver and handling the case.

Reporting the Accident

After a hit-and-run, it’s important to report the accident immediately. Here’s what you should do:

Inform Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Tell them about the accident, and provide all the details you’ve gathered, like the police report, photos, and witness statements. This helps them understand what happens in a hit and run case and how to assist you.

Filing a Claim: Your insurance company will guide you on how to file a claim for a hit and run. Depending on your plan, you may be covered under your uninsured motorist policy or collision coverage. They will help you with the steps needed to repair your car or cover medical costs.

Acting quickly and providing all necessary information will help your claim process go more smoothly.

Legal Steps to Take

After a hit and run, you might need to take legal steps to protect yourself:

Hiring a Lawyer: Consider hiring a lawyer who specializes in car accidents or in personal injury. They can help you understand what to do in a hit and run case and represent you if you need to go to court.

Gathering Additional Evidence: Your lawyer can help you gather more evidence, like surveillance footage or expert opinions, which could be crucial in proving your case and finding the driver.

These steps can strengthen your case and help you navigate the legal process more effectively.

Understanding the Legal Implications

Hit and run cases can be complex, so it’s important to understand the basics:

What Happens in a Hit and Run Case? The police will investigate, try to identify the driver, and may press charges. Your insurance may also cover damages, depending on your policy.

How Long Do Hit and Run Cases Stay Open? Hit and run cases can stay open for months or even years, depending on the investigation and the evidence available.

Understanding these points will help you know what to expect and how to protect your rights.

Consider Legal Options

After a hit and run, exploring your legal options is important. Knowing what happens in a hit and run case and how long do hit and run cases stay open can help you decide your next steps. Consulting a lawyer can guide you through the process, help gather additional evidence, and work to protect your rights. This can improve your chances of resolving the case effectively.

Navigate with Confidence: Contact Radow Law Group’s Experienced Attorneys

If you’ve been in a hit and run accident, you may feel unsure about what to do next. The attorneys at Radow Law Group, P.C. are here to help. They can explain what happens in a hit and run case and provide the support you need, whether you’re wondering about filing a claim or need legal representation. With their experience, you can feel confident in handling your situation. Reach out to Radow Law Group today to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q) Can I still file a claim if the driver is not found?
A) Yes, you can file a claim with your insurance company using uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage, depending on your policy.

Q) Do I need a lawyer for a hit and run case?
A) It’s advisable, especially if there are injuries or significant damage. A lawyer can guide you on the best actions and help with legal processes.

Q) What evidence is helpful in a hit-and-run case?
A) Photos, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage are valuable. These can help build your case and identify the driver.

Q) Should I contact a lawyer even if the damage seems minor?
A) Yes, a lawyer can still assist with navigating insurance claims and ensuring you get fair compensation, even for minor damages.

Q) What if I don’t have the license plate number of the hit-and-run driver?
A) Focus on details like the car’s make and model, color, and witnesses. This information can help in the investigation.