If another driver has hit you, and then fled the scene, there are some important things you should know. A hit and run accident can be very scary, and you might not know what to do. Here, we are going to provide some important steps that you should take if you have been involved in a hit and run accident.
Can You Receive Compensation?
After the accident, you might wonder who is going to pay for your damages. You may even believe that you are going to get stuck with the bill. While it might be difficult to receive the compensation that you deserve, it is not impossible. Below, you will learn some steps that you can take.
Take Action
After being hit by another auto, there are some important things that you should do. Each of these steps will ensure that you will receive compensation, even if the runaway driver is never found.
Call The Police
The first thing that you should do after a hit and run accident is to call the police. Hit and run accidents are serious crimes. It is very important that you call them as soon as you can.
Do not leave the accident scene, and wait for the police to arrive. They will respond to your call, and bring any medical assistance with them. After you have been attended to, the police will begin their search for the other driver.
They will talk to all witnesses, and may even pull camera footage from traffic lights and local retail establishments. Many times, the police can find the other at-fault driver, and bring them to justice.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you have the police on the scene, it is a good idea to go ahead and contact your insurance company. Most insurance policies have an uninsured drivers clause built into them. This will protect you, and cover any costs that you may incur, due to the accident.
They will pay for your vehicle to be repaired, and for many of your medical bills. However, it will not likely cover things like pain and suffering, or lost wages. This is better than nothing, so make sure that you contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
Take Plenty Of Pictures
After you have called your insurance company and the police, you should take some photos. By taking photos, you are gathering your own evidence that you can use in court. While your insurance company will take their own pictures, you should too. This will help you, if your case makes it to a judge.
Hire A Personal Injury Attorney
If the runaway driver is found, you will likely be able to take them to court. Even if they have no insurance, you may be able to get them to pay up. You should hire an attorney to handle all your legal matters.
He or she will be able to determine if the other driver has any assets that you can go after. If they do, then you may be able to sue them for pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, and more.