What to Do in a Hit and Run
Posted on Saturday, April 1st, 2023 at 9:00 am
A hit-and-run is a terrifying and unfortunate incident that can leave victims feeling disoriented and helpless. However, taking swift and appropriate action is crucial to ensure your safety and pursue compensation for your losses. The experienced Cincinnati car accident attorneys at Lawrence & Associates Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC understand how stressful suffering injuries in a collision can be, especially when the other driver flees the scene. This blog post will guide you through the crucial steps to take after a hit-and-run.
Prioritize Your Safety
Before anything else, assess your well-being and that of any passengers in your vehicle. If you or someone else has suffered an injury, call 911 immediately. Do not try to pursue the fleeing driver, as this may exacerbate your injuries or create an additional hazard.
Get to a Safe Location
Move your vehicle out of the flow of traffic, if possible. Use hazard lights, cones, or flares to signal to other drivers that there is an obstruction ahead. These steps can help prevent secondary accidents and keep you and your passengers safe.
Call the Police
Report the hit-and-run incident to the police. Even if you have little information about the fleeing driver, a police report is essential for insurance claims and any legal action you may pursue. When speaking with the police, provide as much detail as possible, including the location, time of day, and any distinguishing characteristics of the hit-and-run vehicle.
Gather Evidence
While waiting for the police to arrive, use your smartphone to take photographs of the accident scene. Capture images of:
- Vehicle damage
- Skid marks
- Debris
- Any nearby surveillance cameras
- Your injuries
If there are witnesses, collect their contact information and ask them to recount what they saw. These statements may be crucial in establishing a case and helping the authorities identify the at-fault driver. Gathering evidence after a hit-and-run will make things easier in the long run.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you do not feel hurt, some injuries may not present symptoms immediately after an accident. Visit a healthcare professional to receive a thorough evaluation. Maintain records of all medical expenses and treatments related to the hit and run, as these documents can prove vital when seeking compensation.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney
Hit-and-run cases can be complex and challenging to navigate alone. A personal injury attorney with experience in such cases can give you the guidance and assistance you need. They can help you understand your rights, identify potential sources of compensation, and develop a robust legal strategy. At Lawrence & Associates Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC, our knowledgeable team is committed to helping you obtain the justice you deserve.
Notify Your Insurance Company
While your attorney is trying to track down the driver who hit you, contact your insurance company to report the hit and run. Provide them with your police report number and any additional information you have gathered. If you purchased optional uninsured motorist or underinsured motorist coverage, your insurance policy could provide benefits for your accident-related expenses. Be mindful of your policy’s deadlines and requirements. Failure to comply can result in claim denial or delayed compensation.
Keep Track of Expenses
Document all expenses related to the hit and run, including vehicle repairs, medical bills, lost wages, and other relevant costs. This information can help establish the financial impact of the accident when pursuing compensation.
Be Patient
The process of resolving a hit-and-run claim can be lengthy, especially if the authorities cannot identify the at-fault driver. Stay patient and cooperate with law enforcement, your insurance company, and your attorney. Persistence and resilience can be instrumental in achieving a favorable outcome.
Be Proactive in Your Recovery
Focus on healing both physically and emotionally from the hit and run. Attend all medical appointments, follow your doctor’s advice, and consider seeking therapy or counseling to address any emotional trauma. A proactive approach to your recovery demonstrates your commitment to regaining your well-being and can help support your case.
Contact Lawrence & Associates Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC Today
Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run can be an overwhelming experience. By following the above steps, you can protect your interests, gather crucial evidence, and enhance your chances of obtaining justice and compensation for your losses. While it is natural to feel frustrated and overwhelmed in such a situation, remember that you have resources and support available to you.
You do not have to face this challenge alone. The dedicated and experienced Cincinnati hit-and-run accident attorneys at Lawrence & Associates Accident and Injury Lawyers, LLC can support and guide you every step of the way. Let us give you the skilled legal representation you need during this trying time. Call us Today at (513) 351-5997 or contact us online for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options.
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