If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Tampa, Florida, it’s important to do certain things. You’ll want to take down the license plate number and make sure you get photos of any damage to your car, as well as any other evidence that might be helpful in finding the person responsible. As well as making sure you’re seen by a doctor or nurse practitioner for any injuries sustained during the incident, it’s also crucial that you report the accident to your insurance provider. It’s not always easy but make sure to follow the next steps.
Upon the Accident
First, collecting information like the license plate number of the vehicle involved in a hit and run accident, as well as any dashcam footage you may have recorded is crucial. Other items that will be helpful are pictures of any damage done to your car or home, along with any witness testimony or notes on where the accident occurred. At this moment you should already think about hiring a hit and run lawyer in Tampa, Florida. Even if you’re not sure what rights and claims you have in your case, you will be sure that you have a legal representative who will go through the process with you and make sure you do all the steps correctly.
Local Authorities
You should file a police report with your local authorities, who will likely ask that you go over what happened one more time once they arrive on the scene. There’s a good chance you’ll have to go over the events of what happened more than once, so be prepared. Contacting the police is your obligation, so do not hesitate to go through with this part of the process, as it might help you in the long run.
Do You Have Insurance?
Now, it’s time to call up your insurance provider and give them details on what happened. They’ll likely ask you why you believe this is a hit-and-run accident, so be sure to have any photos of evidence ready to show them. If possible, try and get in touch with anyone else involved in the accident, as they might also have some pictures or video of what happened as well. Your insurance company should send out a representative immediately to further discuss what occurred. This person can give you advice on what steps you need to take next and make sure that you receive the compensation you need for any damage that has been caused.
After just a few days you can start the claims process. This is an important step in receiving compensation for any damage or injuries you or your property may have sustained during the incident.
Seek Medical Help
After an accident like this, it’s important to visit the doctor or nurse practitioner to receive treatment for any injuries. This is not only so you can take care of yourself properly, but it will also be useful in the case that the other driver wasn’t insured and you’re unable to pay for your medical costs without compensation later. Many people underestimate visiting the doctor’s office after a car accident, but even if it was a minor hit-and-run accident, you cannot know if there are some injuries that can show up later or have long-term impacts on your health.
Hire a Lawyer
Now, when you have all the facts, notes, pictures, and copies of any other evidence that could be helpful, your next step should be finding a legal representative. They can walk you through everything that has happened, discuss if there are any fees you need to pay, and ensure that the recovery process is as smooth as possible. They will also keep you updated on any new information that is available, as well as make sure everything is going according to plan at all times.
In this case, because the other driver fled the scene of the crime, it’s likely that you’re stuck with paying for your own medical costs. A lawyer will also help ensure that you get the compensation for your medical bills and any other costs associated with your accident, in the case you weren’t insured as well. You can also use this time to discuss what steps need to be taken next and what needs to happen during this process.
Even if you think your hit-and-run incident was a minor one, it’s important to follow these steps in order to make sure you receive the very best outcome for your case. By going through this process, it will be easier to, and make sure you receive all money owed to you in a timely manner. Hit-and-run accidents like this happen every day, and if you follow the steps outlined in this article, it should help you receive what you need to get back on your feet again.
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