Wondering what to do in the event of a hit-and-run accident? In a perfect world, responsible individuals would always remain accountable for their actions. Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents continue to be more common than we think, with over 730,000 happening in the United States alone.
A hit-and-run can be distressing and overwhelming, leaving victims with physical injuries, trauma, and a feeling of injustice. That’s why it’s important to know the right measures to take if you find yourself injured in a hit-and-run, so you can seek the justice you deserve.
This guide provides you with all the proper steps you should take in the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident.
Keep reading to learn more.
Table of Contents
Immediate Steps to Take
When a hit-and-run occurs, there are steps that should be taken immediately to ensure your safety and increase your chances of seeking justice.
This includes:
- Contacting the authorities
- Seeking medical attention
- Gathering information
1. Contact the Authorities
Once your medical team and police officers arrive, you will need to file your police report ASAP. Provide specific details regarding the accident and any other important details that you could remember about the driver of the hit-and-run. Examples include the make or model of the car, license plate number, or the driver’s physical description.
Remember, even the smallest details could help police narrow down their search, so be sure to bring up anything specific that you remember.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Before worrying about the person responsible for the hit-and-run, you need to prioritize your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident. Therefore, if you or anyone else is injured, be sure to take care of those matters first and foremost.
Even if you believe you are not seriously injured, it is crucial to seek medical attention after a hit-and-run accident. Some injuries may not be immediately noticeable, and documenting any injuries and receiving appropriate medical care is important for your well-being and legal claims.
3. Gathering Information
Car accidents can be quite a traumatic experience, making it difficult to recall specific details about the other parties involved. That’s why it’s important to gather important information at the time of the crash such as:
- Witness and surveillance footage
- Vehicle Description
- License plate number
Witnesses and Surveillance Footage
Witnesses and surveillance footage play an important role in hit-and-run accidents, as they can provide valuable evidence to help identify the responsible party and strengthen your case.
If you fall victim to a hit-and-run, be sure to reach out to any people nearby who witnessed the accident. This could include other drivers, pedestrians, or those working in nearby shops.
You should also check for surveillance cameras around the area of the collision. Surveillance cameras are present in many public spaces, including roads, parking lots, and buildings. If the accident occurred in an area with surveillance cameras, obtaining footage of the incident can provide clear evidence that could significantly help your case. It may contain footage of the fleeing vehicle, the collision itself, and even the driver’s identity.
Vehicle Description and License Plate Number
Before the driver of the hit-and-run flees, try to capture as many details as you can such as the model, make, or even the color of the car. In some cases, you may be able to get a quick view of the license plate, which serves as fantastic, credible evidence for your insurance claim since insurance companies rely on detailed information to process hit-and-run claims effectively.
Providing accurate vehicle information, including the license plate number, also assists law enforcement agencies in their investigation. They can conduct searches, issue alerts, and share information with other agencies, increasing the chances of finding the driver who fled the scene.
Legal Considerations
Before working with your insurance company, it is extremely important to hire a personal injury attorney to help you seek justice and make the most out of your case.
Engaging Legal Representation
Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney, like Naqvi Law offers numerous benefits for victims of hit-and-run accidents. These attorneys hold knowledge and expertise in handling cases involving accidents and injuries. They also have a deep understanding of the laws, legal procedures, and insurance practices, so they can understand the nuances of your case and increase the likelihood of you seeking justice.
When you hire a personal injury attorney, they will first evaluate the specific details of your hit-and-run case. This includes the severity of your injuries, physical evidence, and any liability issues. After this evaluation, they will work hard to develop a tailored legal plan to increase your chances of fair compensation.
Throughout the legal process, your attorney will go above and beyond to protect your rights with your best interest in mind. They also handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies, opposite parties, and their legal representatives, which will protect you in the long run.
Additionally, personal injury attorneys have the ability to gather evidence, such as witness statements, surveillance footage, accident reports, and medical records, which could significantly strengthen your case. They can also handle insurance claim negotiations, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages. In the event that a settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will provide legal representation in court and fight for your case. Some personal injury attorneys, like our team at Naqvi Law, work on a contingency fee basis. This means we only receive payment if we win your case.
Overall, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney provides valuable guidance, protection, and expertise, which protects your rights and helps you receive fair compensation for your injuries and vehicle damages.
Filing an Insurance Claim
When filing a claim with your insurance company after a hit-and-run accident, it is important to follow a few key steps.
Firstly, contact your insurance provider promptly to report the incident. Provide them with all relevant details, including the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as a thorough description of the damages to your vehicle or any injuries. It is important to be as honest and accurate as possible in your claim to avoid future issues.
To support your claim, you also need to gather and provide any necessary documentation. This typically includes a copy of the police report filed after the accident and an official record of the incident. Additionally, gather any witness statements, photographs, or videos of the accident scene and damages to strengthen your case.
Your insurance company may also require documentation of your medical treatment if you faced any injuries. Keep records of all medical expenses, such as bills, receipts, and reports, as these will be important to receive compensation.
Providing all necessary documentation is vital because it helps your insurance company assess the liability of the hit-and-run driver and determine the appropriate coverage and compensation you are entitled to receive. By following these steps and providing thorough documentation, you increase the likelihood of a successful insurance claim and receive support and compensation for the damages or injuries resulting from the hit-and-run accident.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
A personal injury lawsuit may be necessary for a hit-and-run when an individual has suffered severe injuries or long-term consequences as a result of the incident. In these cases, the damages may be extreme, including huge medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and emotional distress. Filing a lawsuit allows the injured person to seek compensation for these damages and hold the responsible party accountable for their actions.
The legal process involved in pursuing a personal injury lawsuit typically begins with a consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney. The attorney will then investigate the case and gather evidence. They will then initiate the lawsuit by filing a complaint in the appropriate court.
The lawsuit goes through different stages, including discovery, where both parties exchange relevant information and evidence for a possible settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial and a judge or jury will need to decide the final outcome. It’s important to note that the specific legal process depends on the personal injury attorney that you’re working with and your individual case. However, having skilled legal representation can guide the injured victim through each step of the process and increase the chances of a successful outcome and compensation.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Accidents can take a toll on you both physically and emotionally. That’s why it’s important to seek rehabilitation and recovery following your accident for the support your need.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy helps restore mobility, function, and overall well-being after injury. One of the primary benefits of physical therapy is pain management. Through various techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and heat or cold therapy, physical therapists help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with specific injuries. They can also provide guidance to prevent further injuries from occurring.
Following a rehabilitation plan prescribed by a physical therapist is of utmost importance. This plan is tailored to the specific needs and goals of the individual, taking into account the type and severity of the injury. By adhering to the rehabilitation plan, patients can experience many benefits that will speed up their recovery.
Rehabilitation plans also include specific exercises and stretches that address muscle imbalances, and weaknesses that may have developed due to the injury. By participating in these exercises, patients can correct these imbalances and improve overall strength and flexibility.
Furthermore, a rehabilitation plan provides accountability and 1-1 guidance. Physical therapists monitor progress, track improvements, and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan as needed. They also offer expert education on proper techniques and injury prevention methods. This allows patients to take an active role in their recovery and ensures they are performing exercises correctly and safely.
Emotional Support
A hit-and-run accident can be extremely traumatic for the victim. Victims may experience a wide range of emotions, including shock, fear, anger, depression, and anxiety. In severe cases, some people even experience conditions like PTSD following the event of a traumatic accident. It is essential to acknowledge and validate these emotions, as they are a natural response to a distressing situation.
During this challenging time, seeking support from friends, family, or a counselor can be very beneficial. Talking about your feelings and experiences with trusted loved ones can provide an outlet for emotional expression and help you process the trauma.
However, in some cases, professional therapy or support groups may be necessary to address the emotional aftermath of a hit-and-run accident. A trained therapist can provide guidance, coping strategies, and a safe space to explore and work through the emotions and trauma associated with the incident. They can help you develop effective ways to manage anxiety, fear, and any post-traumatic stress symptoms that may arise.
Healing from the emotional impact of a hit-and-run accident takes time, and everyone’s journey is unique. That’s why it’s important to be patient with yourself and allow yourself to grieve and process your emotions at your own pace. Seeking support and guidance is the first step towards working through your pain.
Hire a Personal Injury at Naqvi Law Today
Overall, if you are injured in a hit-and-run accident, it is important to prioritize your health and seek immediate medical attention for your injuries and collect as much information as possible about the hit-and-run driver. Additionally, gather contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident.
From here you need to report the hit-and-run accident to the police promptly and seek the guidance of a personal injury attorney who specializes in hit-and-run accidents. Provide all necessary documentation, including police reports, medical records, and any other evidence to support your claim.
In addition to all legal steps, be sure to seek physical therapy for your injuries and recognize the emotional impact of the accident by seeking support from friends and family, or consider professional counseling.
By taking these steps, you can protect your rights and receive the compensation and support you deserve after a hit-and-run accident.
If you’re ready to work with our personal injury team at Naqvi Law, start by receiving a free consultation or give us a call at (702) 919-6818.