Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a terrifying experience. Not only are you left dealing with the physical and emotional aftermath of the hit-and-run accident, but you are also left wondering how you will be able to hold the at-fault driver accountable.
In this article, we will explore what to do if you suffer an injury in a hit-and-run accident.
Did you know?
Across the nation, there were 2,783 fatal hit-and-run incidents in 2021, the latest year with available data. This represents an 89.4% increase from 1,469 incidents in 2012.
Getting medical attention
The first and most important thing you should do if you suffer an injury in a hit-and-run accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel okay at the scene of the accident, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional.
It is not uncommon for people with certain injuries to experience no symptoms for the first few days or weeks after the accident. Seeking medical attention not only ensures that you receive the proper care for your injuries, but it also provides a record of your injuries that may be useful in your personal injury case.
Contacting local law enforcement
After seeking medical attention, the next thing you should do is call the police. Even if the at-fault driver fled the scene, it is important to file a police report.
The police report will document the incident, including the time, date, and location of the hit-and-run accident. It will also provide a description of the at-fault driver’s vehicle and any identifying information.
This information may be helpful in tracking down the at-fault driver and holding them accountable for their actions.
Collecting evidence for a hit-and-run accident
Try gathering as much evidence as you can from the scene of the accident, that’s if you’re physically able to do so. This includes taking pictures of any damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area.
Additionally, you should try gathering any contact information from any witnesses to the accident. Eyewitness testimony can be extremely helpful in identifying the at-fault driver.
You should also keep a record of any medical treatment you receive and any expenses you incur as a result of the accident.
Did you know?
Marking an increase of nearly 50 percent over a decade, hit-and-run accidents were involved in 7% of fatal crashes in 2021. Over 60 percent of these fatal hit-and-runs involved pedestrians.
During the same time period, studies have shown hit-and-runs resulting in injuries has increased by 22%.
Dealing with insurance companies
Even though most attorneys will advise you against giving any statements to any insurance company, it is still important to report accidents to your provider. This is even more so the case when you are in a hit-and-run accident.
After you have sought medical attention and filed a police report, you should contact your insurance company to report the accident. Your insurance company can help you with the claims process and provide guidance on what to do next.
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, this may provide additional compensation for your injuries and property damage. However, be wary of this before you contact your insurance company, as they will most likely try to pay out as least as possible for your claim.
Follow-up medical treatment
After seeking medical attention at the scene of the accident, it is important to continue to follow up with medical treatment for your injuries. This includes attending any scheduled appointments with medical professionals and following any prescribed treatment plans.
Not only is this important for your health and well-being, but it also provides a record of your injuries that may be useful in your personal injury case.
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