People don’t plan on being the victim of a hit and run. One minute you’re driving home from work or walking across the street, and the next you’re rattled up, hurt, and unsure what to do next. It’s not just the injury to your body that aches; it’s also the perplexity and the impression that someone just drove away and left you behind.
What you do right when this happens can make a big difference. If you talk to a hit and run accident lawyer right away, they can help you protect your rights and make sense of the complicated world of insurance claims and police reports.
What to Do Right After a Hit and Run
The moments after a hit and run are chaotic. You’re hurt, scared, or angry, and it’s easy to miss details that could later help your case. Take a breath. Your first move should always be safety.
- Get to a safe place: If possible, move your car out of traffic. Turn on your hazard lights.
- Call 911: Even if you think your injuries are minor, report the crash immediately. Police reports are key evidence in hit and run cases.
- Get medical help: Some injuries show up hours later, especially neck or back pain. Getting checked early protects your health and strengthens your record for insurance or legal claims.
- Call the Cops: Make sure to call the police to the site of the accident. They can conduct a thorough investigation of the scene. The official report they make can serve as strong evidence for your claim.
Gather Every Bit of Information
If you’re able, gather as much evidence as possible before leaving the scene. Even small details can make a difference.
- Details about the vehicle: Please write down the color, model, and any aspect of the license plate.
- Time and direction: Write down the direction in which the driver went and when it happened.
- Pictures and videos: Take pictures of the damage to your car, the skid marks, the broken glass, and the area around you.
- Witnesses: If anyone saw the crash, get their names, phone numbers, or dashcam footage.
The point isn’t to play detective; it’s to write down details that police or a hit and run accident lawyer can utilize later.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Most insurers require you to report a hit and run within 24 to 48 hours. Delays can cause claim denials, even if you’re not at fault.
When describing what happened, be factual, not emotional. Stick to verified details and share the police report when available. Your uninsured motorist coverage may cover repairs and medical costs if the other driver is never found.
If your policy doesn’t include this, a lawyer can help you explore other options, like state victim funds or civil claims.
Consult a Lawyer Early
Hit and run laws vary by state, as do time limits for filing claims. A hit and run lawyer can guide you through the fine print, when to file, how to prove negligence, or whether you qualify for punitive damages.
A lawyer also deals with insurance adjusters who may try to minimize your payout. Having legal help means you can focus on healing while someone else handles the paperwork and negotiation.
Things You Shouldn’t Do
- Leaving the scene without getting proof
- Writing about the crash on social media
- Taking too long to get to the doctor
- Taking a hasty insurance settlement before you know how much harm has been done
If you commit even one of these mistakes, it could be tougher to defend your case later.
Taking Care of Yourself
Physical injuries often get attention, but emotional trauma can linger too. It’s common to feel anxious or unsafe after a hit and run. Reach out to a therapist or support group if you’re struggling. Healing isn’t just about the car or the bills; it’s about feeling steady again.
Quick Recap
- Move to safety and call 911 right away.
- Get medical attention, even for minor pain.
- Gather photos, witness info, and vehicle details.
- File a police report and get a copy.
- Inform your insurer within 24 – 48 hours.
- Talk to a hit and run accident attorney to protect your rights.
- Avoid posting online or rushing into settlements.
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