Perhaps you were recently involved in a hit-and-run car accident. You know you have a legal case, but you may not know whether you did everything necessary to protect your right to compensation.
NextAdvisor breaks down how to respond to a hit-and-run accident. Learn how to give yourself the most favorable chance of recovering damages.
Ensure your safety
No matter a car accident’s circumstance, prioritize checking yourself and passengers for injuries. Shock and adrenaline may mask injuries, so it makes sense to have a doctor look you over. You could have hidden or delayed injuries that affect your claim. Also, if possible, move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic.
Call law enforcement
Contact the police to come out to the scene of the accident. With hit-and-runs, victims should contact law enforcement sooner rather than later. That way, officers have a better chance of tracking down the responsible party. Once the police officer makes a report of the accident, get a copy.
Collect details
Note anything you remember about the driver before she or he sped off. Useful information includes the direction in which the person drove off, the vehicle’s make and model, license plate numbers, time of day and the car’s color. If anyone witnessed the incident, get a statement. Make sure you take the witness’s contact information.
Contact your insurance provider
Depending on your insurance policy, you could have coverage for hit-and-run accidents. Let your agent know what happened, and share the police report to build your claim.
You should not have to pay for another’s negligence. Hopefully, you receive the compensation you need and deserve.
