Being involved in a car crash is a stressful experience, but if the perpetrator decides to leave the scene of the crime, the situation can go from bad to worse. You may be scared, but if you keep calm and document everything you can, you'll get through your first hit-and-run.
What is a Hit-and-Run?
A hit-and-run is when a person is involved in a collision and leaves the accident site without offering aid, information to the driver, or calling the police. Even in at-fault states, fleeing the scene is against the law and can result in a misdemeanor or a felony charge and jail time.
If the other driver can’t be identified, you may have to pay for the expenses resulting from the crash. Most uninsured motorist coverage and full coverage auto insurance offered by providers will cover your costs, but you have to speak to your insurer about your limits and next steps.
But what if you were injured in a hit-and-run? You’ll need a personal injury attorney to fight for you. If you live in Philadelphia, you can contact the Wieand law firm to file a personal injury claim.
What to do After a Hit-and-Run
As soon as you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run, you need to act quickly. Every moment counts, so make sure you complete the following steps on the day of the accident, if possible.
Make Sure You’re Okay
After a car accident, you may be in shock, which can cause your brain to minimize how painful or severe your injuries seem. If you feel pain or discomfort in your body or you hit your head or neck during a crash, call 911 immediately. You could have a concussion or internal bleeding.
After checking on yourself, speak to the other members in your car. Ask them to feel their body for potential bruising, sprains, or broken bones. Tell the occupants that feeling your body can help reduce negative emotions, which helps them focus on the now and minimizes trauma.
Call the Police
If you didn’t call the police because you or your passengers were injured, you should call them immediately after you get your bearings. You shouldn’t wait a couple of hours before you request a squad car because you need to create a report ASAP for your lawyer or insurer.
Start gathering information for the police officer so you’re ready to write a report when they arrive. Make sure to ask for a copy because your insurance company may require one.
Gather Information
Even if the other person has left the scene of the accident, stay where you are and pull over, if possible. You don’t want to be in the middle of traffic when you’re speaking to the police; it’s dangerous. Then, gather as much information as possible about the vehicle and the accident.
If you have other people in your car or there are witnesses nearby, ask them as well. They may know the time of the crash, the vehicle model, the license plate, the car’s color, the description of the person driving, and the direction they’re heading. Don’t forget to take pictures of your car.
Contact Your Auto Insurer
Once the police finish their report and you’re able to leave the scene, contact your insurer. File a claim and explain that you were involved in a hit-and-run and did not receive the driver’s information. Ask if they need a copy of the police report before they can look into your case.
While it’s a good idea to file a police report and an insurance claim on the same day, you usually have 30 days to do both. If you need someone to tow your car, contact roadside assistance.
