What You Should Do If You’re A Victim Of A Hit-And-Run

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a traumatic experience. The sudden shock of the collision, combined with the anxiety of the other driver fleeing the scene, can leave you unsure of what to do next. In moments like these, it’s important to stay calm and take decisive steps to protect yourself, preserve evidence, and contact accident injury attorneys. Although the circumstances of each hit-and-run can vary, there are specific actions you can take to ensure that your rights are protected, and your chances of finding the responsible driver are maximized. Below are some important steps you should follow if you’re a victim of a hit-and-run.

Table of Contents

Ensure You’re Safe

The immediate aftermath of a hit-and-run can be chaotic, but the first thing you should focus on is your safety and the safety of anyone else involved. Check to make sure that you and your passengers are not seriously injured. If you or anyone in your vehicle has sustained injuries, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s always wise to seek medical attention as some injuries might not be apparent right away.

After ensuring that no one is in immediate danger, move your vehicle to a safe location if possible. If your car is drivable, try to pull it to the side of the road or to a safer area to avoid obstructing traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident. If your vehicle is too damaged to move or if it’s unsafe to exit the car, stay inside and wait for emergency services to arrive.

Gather as Much Information as Possible

In a hit-and-run accident, identifying the fleeing driver is critical for holding them accountable. Therefore, it’s essential to gather as much information as you can at the scene. If possible, try to get the license plate number of the vehicle that hit you. Even a partial license plate can be useful for authorities to track down the responsible driver. Additionally, note down the make, model, color, and any distinguishing features of the vehicle, such as dents, stickers, or modifications.

If there were witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information. Witness statements can provide valuable support for your case, especially if they saw details of the other vehicle or how the accident occurred. Don’t hesitate to ask bystanders if they can provide any additional information, as people are often willing to help in these situations.

Report the Incident to the Police

After a hit-and-run, contact law enforcement as soon as possible. Filing a police report is not only required by law in most jurisdictions, but it also creates an official record of the accident. Even if you feel the damage is minor, it’s still important to involve the police so they can document the details of the incident and begin their investigation.

When the police arrive, provide them with all the information you gathered at the scene. Be as detailed as possible in describing the hit-and-run driver and their vehicle, as well as any other relevant facts. This could include the direction the driver fled, the time of the accident, and the weather conditions at the time. The more precise your account, the better the chances that law enforcement can track down the responsible party.

Conclusion

Being the victim of a hit-and-run is an incredibly stressful experience, but knowing what steps to take can help you regain control of the situation.