Considering how often the average American gets behind the wheel of a car, it is all but inevitable that most of us will deal with an auto accident at some point. However, few accidents are as frustrating as a hit and run.
It is important to understand what to do in the event that somebody hits you and speeds off. According to State Farm Insurance, you absolutely should not try to go after the driver.
Why should I not give chase?
Chasing after the culprit may be your natural impulse, but it is not a good one. This is because it could confuse eyewitnesses. If both cars go driving off, the eyewitnesses may not know who was at fault.
Instead, focus on calling 911 if there is an injured person, then call a non-emergency number to file a police report. Try to get a photograph of the car that hit you if you can. Getting as much information as you can about the culprit will help the police apprehend him or her.
Important information to remember is the license plate if you can see it, the color, model, and make of the vehicle and any identifying rust spots or damage the offending vehicle has. If you can remember where the vehicle was going and the time of the accident, this information is helpful as well.
Should I talk to eyewitnesses?
Absolutely. With the proliferation of smartphones, everybody has a camera these days. It is possible that a witness got a photo of a license plate or took footage of the accident. These can be invaluable when you are talking with the police and, in the future, when you make an insurance claim.
