Finding yourself in a hit and run road accident can be a traumatic and confusing experience.
As a victim of a hit and run accident, it’s crucial to act quickly and efficiently to protect your rights and well-being. Immediate actions can significantly impact the outcome of your case and ensure that you receive the necessary support and compensation.
In this post, we’ll outline six essential steps you need to take right after the incident to help you manage the situation effectively and improve your chances of a fair outcome.
Ensure Your Safety and Check for Injuries
The priority after a hit and run accident is to ascertain your safety and the safety of others involved. Move to a safe location if possible, and check yourself and others for any injuries. If anyone is injured, contact emergency services immediately.
Accurate information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that hit-and-run accidents can result in serious injuries or fatalities. It’s crucial to seek medical attention even if you don’t feel injured, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Call the Police and Report the Incident
Contact the police as soon as possible to report the hit-and-run accident. Verified reports from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety show that nearly 11% of all crashes communicated to the police involve a hit and run driver.
Provide them with as much detail as you can, including the location, description of the vehicle that hit you, and any injuries sustained. A police report is essential for documenting the incident and starting the investigation process.
Gather Information and Evidence
Try to gather as much information as possible about the hit and run driver and vehicle. This entails the license number on the plate, the make and model of the vehicle, and any distinguishing features. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information as well.
Take pictures of the accident scene, damage to your vehicle, and any visible injuries. This information will be valuable for the police investigation and your insurance claim.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s important to seek medical treatment after a hit and run accident. Certain injuries one may incur, such as whiplash or internal injuries, could not be apparent instantly.
A report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that nearly 21% of all pedestrian fatalities in hit and run crashes involve injuries to the head. A medical expert can examine your condition and document any injuries you may have sustained.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the hit and run accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the details of the incident and any documentation, such as the police report and medical records. Your insurance company can help you comprehend your coverage and guide you through the claims process.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, hit and run accidents are covered under the uninsured motorist coverage of your auto insurance policy, which can help cover medical expenses and damages to your vehicle.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Consider seeking advice from a personal injury advocate who has experience handling hit and run cases. An advocate can assist you in understanding your legal rights, traversing the legal process, and pursuing compensation for your injuries and damages. They can also represent you in discussions with insurance companies and the court, if necessary.
Based on the report from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, hit and run crashes are on the rise, with an average of 682,000 hit and run accidents occurring each year in the United States.
Conclusion
By following these six steps, you can shield yourself and your rights after a hit and run accident. Acting quickly and decisively can help you gather the necessary evidence, seek medical attention, and pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.
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