Hit and run accidents happen more often than you may think. There are nearly 575,000 hit and run car accident cases annually in the United States. These auto accidents are both illegal, and come with extensive penalties if the driver is identified. If you are in an auto accident caused by a hit and run driver, what actions should you take?
Although you may be fueled with anger after a driver speeds away from the scene of an accident, do not chase the driver. Remain as calm and level-headed as possible. First and foremost, make sure you and the other passengers are okay. Then, write down all the information you can immediately after the accident. If you don’t have a pen and paper, use the memo feature on your phone, or call a friend to write down all the information for you. What is the location and time of the accident? What area of your car was damaged? Document a description of the vehicle that hit you – the make, model, color, bumper stickers, license plate number, and any other identifying traits of the car. If you have access to a camera, make sure to take many photos of the damage to your car and the location of the accident.
After documenting information about the car accident, call the police and an ambulance if needed and be sure to follow up with an experienced car accident lawyer. It is important to both file an accident report and get medical attention – even whiplash can become a serious injury. If there were any witnesses at the scene of the accident, make sure to collect their contact information. Do not wait for an officer to take their name, phone number, and statement. Witnesses can be vitally important for a successful hit and run case, and may forget important information before help arrives.
Make sure you punctually contact your insurance company. Let them know you were a victim of a hit and run auto accident. Anytime you are in a serious auto accident, it is best to consult an experienced accident attorney. If you have been hit by a careless driver in a hit and run accident, please call a skilled Car Accident Lawyer at Rutter Mills Law Firm. We will be sure to give you the justice and care you deserve.