One of the most frightening driving accidents is being involved in a hit-and-run accident. You may feel nervous and not know what to do next.
In 2020, hit-and-run accidents accounted for almost 17% of all recorded auto accidents. This article talks about what to do if you’re unfortunate enough to be involved in a hit-and-run accident.
What is a Hit-And-Run?
A hit-and-run is a vehicle accident in which the driver leaves the accident scene. According to expert car accident attorneys, a driver should stop if they cause an accident. At the scene, the driver is expected to render aid and check on the people involved in the accident. The driver should also exchange contact with the parties involved in the car accident.
Depending on the circumstances, you might have to stay at the collision site until law enforcement officers have visited and collected everyone’s contact information. Follow your state’s regulations for promptly reporting an accident to the police. You might be able to leave a crash scene after exchanging contact information with other vehicles in more minor collisions.
Steps to take
Now that you understand what a hit-and-run is and the scenarios surrounding it, here are the steps you should take as a victim.
1. Stay Safe
First, make sure you and everyone else involved are free of injuries. Then, after you’ve guaranteed everyone’s safety, make an instant call to emergency services if medical treatment is required. Even if you initially feel well, your adrenaline could be hiding the pain, so it’s safer to see a physician on time. The health expert will rule out any injuries that might have delayed the event.
2. Secure the Scene
Try to park your automobile as far away from traffic as you can. To warn other cars, turn on your danger lights and, if you have any, set up warning flares. This keeps other collisions to a minimum and shields you from approaching cars.
3. Gather Proof
You know, every detail matters when it comes to accident-related issues. So, as you wait for assistance, gather as much evidence as you can about the vehicle that hit and fled. Take note of specifics like:
- The car’s make and model
- Color as well as any other distinguishing features
- The number on the license plate
- Driver’s biography, if it is accessible
- Take pictures of your car’s damage, the surrounding area, and any remaining wreckage, and
- Record the time and location of the accident
4. Inform the Police of the Accident
Inform the police as soon as possible. The police report includes all the information the investigating office has gathered, including any available witness statements. Remember, insurance claims and potential legal actions depend on the police record. The police record should contain all the necessary details.
5. Consult Your Insurance Service Provider
As soon as you can, report the collision to your insurance company. Even without the identity of the negligent motorist, your policy may still cover hit-and-run situations. You will receive assistance from your insurance agent during the claims process.
6. Consider Your Legal Choices
Hit and run accidents can be complex. You should avoid mistakes to recover fair compensation. Consulting attorneys for traffic accidents can be beneficial. They can help you make sense of the legal system and look into your options for recovering damages.
Types of Injuries in Hit-and-Run Car Accidents
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
In the United States, more than 50,000 people die each year because of traumatic brain injury in car accidents. A traumatic brain injury occurs when the brain is damaged by a blow or a piercing injury to the head. TBI can have a lasting effect on a person’s life.
Spinal Cord Injuries
During the car accident, the victim will face and feel the impact of the crash. The force created in the accident can lead to spinal cord injuries and in the worst case, can cause long-term disability. This may force the victim to rely on another person for everyday activities.
Burns
This occurs when a vehicle gets damaged by fire during a car accident. Once the vehicle crashes or the victim is exposed to fire or hot fluids, the victim can suffer from severe burns. In some cases, burns may require surgery or skin grafting.
Final Thoughts
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident is difficult. Fortunately, by following the correct processes and seeking legal counsel from car accident attorneys, you can protect your rights and pursue the compensation to which you are legally entitled. Ultimately, surviving the accident’s aftermath calls for you to continue being vigilant, informed, and resilient.
