Getting into a car accident is already distressing, but it can feel even more overwhelming when the other driver flees the scene. Hit and run accidents are not just illegal—they can leave you feeling confused and vulnerable. Knowing what to do right after a hit and run can make a big difference in protecting your rights and getting the help you need. In this article, we’ll walk you through the crucial steps to take after a hit and run.
What is a Hit and Run Car Accident?
A hit and run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing contact information or aiding the injured. This type of accident can happen to anyone, whether you're driving, cycling, or walking. The fleeing driver typically avoids taking responsibility for the accident, leaving victims to deal with the aftermath on their own.
A driver must take several important steps before leaving the accident scene:
Stop the Vehicle and Move to a Safe Location: Ensure that the vehicle is safely parked to prevent further accidents or traffic disruptions.
Evaluate the Damage: Assess the damage to all involved properties or individuals to understand the severity of the situation.
Exchange Contact Information: Share necessary contact and insurance details with the other parties involved in the accident.
Seek Medical Assistance: If any person is injured, provide aid and call for medical help immediately.
Call the Police: Report the accident to the authorities, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage.
In many states, causing damage to property or an unoccupied vehicle may lead to charges. If the accident involves injury to a person, the driver can face felony charges. Moreover, victims of hit and run accidents can also pursue civil penalties against the responsible driver.
Dos and Don'ts for Handling a Hit and Run Accident
Dos
Try to Get the License Plate Number and Write Down All Vehicle Information
As soon as you realize you've been hit, make an effort to note the license plate number of the hit and run driver. Also, try to remember and document the make, model, and color of the other vehicle involved in the accident.
Take Photos or Videos of the Car and Driver
If possible, capture photos or videos of the hit and run car and driver. This visual evidence can be crucial in identifying the at fault driver and supporting your insurance claim.
Return to the Scene of the Accident
After attempting to gather information, return to the scene of the accident. Remaining at the scene is important for documenting the incident accurately.
Stay at the Scene if Unable to Pursue the Driver
If you can't follow the hit and run driver, stay where the accident occurred. Leaving the scene could complicate your insurance claim and legal standing.
Call the Police Immediately
Contact the police as soon as possible to report the hit and run accident. A police report is essential for your insurance claim and for any legal actions that may follow.
Look for Witnesses
Seek out any witnesses who might have seen the accident. Their statements can provide valuable support for your hit and run insurance claim.
Check for Cameras Around the Accident Location
Look for surveillance cameras in the area that may have captured the accident. This footage can serve as critical evidence in identifying the hit and run driver.
Take Photos of the Scene, Including Damage to Your Car
Document the accident scene thoroughly. Take photos of the damage to your car, the surrounding area, and any other relevant details. This evidence will be vital when filing your insurance claim.
Get a Police Report
Ensure you obtain a police report, as your insurance company may deny the claim if there is no official documentation. Even if you report the accident a few days later, your insurance provider might use the delay against you.
Conduct an Investigation to Identify the Hit and Run Driver’s Insurance Company
Work to identify the hit and run driver’s insurance information. This may involve accessing databases or other resources to track down the at fault driver.
Inform Your Insurance Carrier
Notify your insurance carrier about the hit and run accident immediately. Set up an uninsured motorist claim if the driver cannot be located. Your insurance policy may provide coverage for your medical expenses, property damage, and other costs.
Don’ts
Don’t Leave the Scene of the Accident
Leaving the scene can lead to complications with your insurance claim and potential legal issues. Always remain at the accident location until you have completed all necessary steps.
Don’t Neglect to Document Everything
Failing to document the accident thoroughly can hurt your case. Make sure to take detailed notes and gather as much evidence as possible.
Don’t Skip Contacting the Police
Not calling the police can jeopardize your hit and run insurance claim. A police report is crucial for proving that the accident occurred and for pursuing any legal actions.
Don’t Forget to Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it’s important to seek medical attention. Injuries from car accidents can sometimes manifest later, and immediate medical evaluation can support your personal injury protection claim.
Don’t Hesitate to Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
An experienced personal injury lawyer can assist you with navigating the complexities of a hit and run insurance claim. They have access to resources and databases that can help identify the hit and run driver and their insurance provider.
Insurance Coverages for Hit and Run Accidents
Collision Car Insurance Coverage
Collision coverage pays for repairs to your vehicle if it's damaged in an accident, regardless of fault. This includes incidents with other vehicles, objects like fences or trees, and single-car accidents. You pay a deductible, and your insurance covers the rest. If the hit-and-run driver is identified, your insurer will seek to recover your deductible from the at-fault driver's insurance.
Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury Coverage
Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI) coverage protects you if you’re injured by an uninsured driver. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. In a hit-and-run, if the at-fault driver is unidentified, UMBI provides compensation for your injuries, helping cover medical bills and lost wages.
Uninsured Motorist Property Damage Coverage
Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) coverage pays for damage to your vehicle and property in a hit-and-run where the at-fault driver is not identified. This ensures your vehicle is repaired or replaced promptly, minimizing disruption to your life.
Medical Payments Coverage
Medical Payments (MedPay) coverage is optional insurance that pays for medical expenses from a car accident, regardless of fault. It covers hospital visits, surgeries, and other treatments. In a hit-and-run, MedPay provides immediate financial assistance for medical bills, helping you get necessary treatment without financial strain.
FAQs
Is there such a thing as hit and run insurance?
Yes, it is called uninsured motorist coverage. This type of insurance provides protection when you're involved in an accident with a driver who flees the scene or does not have insurance.
Do you have to pay a deductible for a hit-and-run insurance claim?
If you are using collision coverage to fix your vehicle, you will need to pay a deductible. Your insurance provider will then cover the remaining repair costs.
Does liability insurance cover a hit-and-run?
No, liability insurance does not cover damages when you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident. Liability insurance applies when you are at fault and responsible for damages to another person or their property. However, if the hit-and-run driver is identified, their liability insurance will cover your damages. You would then make a claim on their policy for any recovery.
How long do you have to report a hit-and-run?
The timeframe to report a hit-and-run can vary. It's essential to check your specific auto insurance policy or ask your insurance company for their rules. Regardless, report the incident as soon as possible to avoid complications. The longer you wait, the more you risk hurting your claim.
Need Help After a Hit and Run? Contact Burnham Law Firm
If you've been involved in a hit and run accident, you don't have to go through it alone. At Burnham Law Firm, we understand the stress and confusion that come with such incidents. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We have the knowledge and resources to handle the complexities of hit and run cases, from conducting thorough investigations to dealing with insurance companies and pursuing the responsible parties. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Reach out to us today for a free consultation. Let's discuss your case, answer your questions, and explore how we can assist you in moving forward. Call us now or visit our website to schedule your consultation.
Your peace of mind and justice are our top priorities.
コメント