What Should You Do if You’re Involved in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident can be one of the most frustrating and stressful experiences on the road. Whether you're a driver, pedestrian, or cyclist, the shock of being left at the scene without the responsible party taking accountability can be overwhelming. Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal, but unfortunately, it still happens.
Knowing what steps to take after a hit-and-run can help protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering damages. Acting quickly and carefully after the accident is essential. If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run accident, one of our personal injury lawyers at The Handley Law Center in Edmond, Oklahoma, can help protect your legal rights.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, taking the right steps immediately can help build a strong case should you need to pursue legal action with a personal injury lawyer. Here’s what to do:
Stay at the scene: Never try to chase the fleeing driver. Doing so could put you in more danger and may lead to another accident or injury. Instead, remain calm and stay in a safe location while you assess the situation.
Check for injuries: Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call for medical assistance right away. Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain, so it's best to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Call 911: Report the accident immediately. Give the dispatcher as much detail as possible, including the make, model, and color of the vehicle that fled, as well as any part of the license plate you remember. The sooner law enforcement is alerted, the higher the chances they can track down the other driver.
Gather evidence: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, debris, skid marks, and any injuries. If there are witnesses, get their contact information and ask for their account of what happened. Their statements may prove valuable later.
Write down details: While everything is still fresh in your mind, jot down details about the fleeing vehicle and driver. Even minor details, such as bumper stickers, dents, or tinted windows, could help law enforcement track them down.
Taking these immediate actions can provide valuable evidence and increase your chances of finding the hit-and-run driver or receiving compensation through your insurance policy. Once you have secured the scene, the next step is to seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel seriously injured.
Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you don't think you're seriously hurt, getting medical attention right away is essential. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately noticeable but can become serious if left untreated. A medical evaluation also provides documentation of any injuries, which can be crucial if you pursue a legal claim with a personal injury lawyer.
After seeking medical care, the next important step is to report the accident to law enforcement. Filing an official report can strengthen your case and help law enforcement identify the hit-and-run driver.
Reporting the Accident to Law Enforcement
Drivers are required to report accidents that result in injuries, fatalities, or property damage. Even if the other driver fled, you should still file a police report. Officers may be able to locate the hit-and-run driver using traffic cameras, witness statements, or other investigative tools. A police report will also serve as an important piece of evidence for legal or insurance claims.
Once you’ve filed a report, it’s time to notify your insurance company. Understanding how to handle this conversation is crucial for receiving fair compensation for your losses.
Notifying Your Insurance Company
After reporting the accident to the police, you’ll need to inform your insurance company. Many policies include uninsured motorist coverage, which can help cover damages from a hit-and-run accident. When speaking with your insurer:
Provide all gathered evidence: Share photos, witness statements, and a copy of the police report. The more information you have, the stronger your claim will be.
Stick to the facts: Avoid speculating about the accident or admitting fault. Insurance companies may use anything you say against you, so be cautious when describing the incident.
Ask about your coverage: Find out what your policy includes, such as coverage for medical bills, vehicle repairs, or lost wages. If you’re unsure about your policy’s benefits, ask for clarification on what expenses can be covered.
Your insurance company may conduct an investigation to determine liability and coverage. While this process plays out, gathering additional evidence can further support your claim and potential legal case pursued by a personal injury lawyer.
Gathering Additional Evidence
The more evidence you collect, the stronger your case will be. If you haven't already, consider these additional steps:
Look for surveillance footage: Nearby businesses, homes, or traffic cameras may have recorded the accident. Request copies if possible, as video evidence can be crucial in identifying the hit-and-run driver.
Keep track of expenses: Save medical bills, repair costs, and any receipts related to the accident. This documentation will help prove your financial losses.
Document your injuries: Take photos of your injuries over time and keep a journal of any pain or limitations you experience. These records can serve as evidence of the accident’s impact on your daily life.
Having solid evidence will strengthen your insurance claim and any legal action you may pursue. If the driver responsible for the accident is identified, understanding your legal options will be the next step.
Your Legal Options
Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims feeling helpless, but legal options are available. If the driver is found, they may face criminal charges and be held financially responsible for your damages. Even if the driver isn’t identified, an experienced personal lawyer can help you explore options for compensation through your insurance or other legal avenues.
If you're unsure whether you have a case or need help dealing with insurance companies, reaching out to a legal professional can provide clarity. Knowing when to contact a personal injury lawyer is crucial for protecting your rights.
When to Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Handling a hit-and-run accident on your own can be overwhelming. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and explore options for compensation. Consider reaching out if:
You suffered injuries: Medical treatment can be costly, and an attorney can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The financial burden of medical expenses shouldn’t fall on you if another driver was at fault.
The insurance company isn’t cooperating: If your claim is delayed or denied, legal representation can help protect your interests. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but an attorney can negotiate on your behalf.
The driver is found: If law enforcement identifies the driver, a personal injury lawyer can help hold them accountable for damages and injuries. Legal action may be necessary to recover the full amount you’re owed.
A legal professional can guide you through the process of seeking justice and compensation. If you’re dealing with a hit-and-run accident, getting legal help can make a significant difference in your case’s outcome.
Contact Us Today
If you're struggling with the aftermath of a hit-and-run, consulting a personal injury lawyer from our staff at The Handley Law Center can help you explore your legal options and pursue compensation. We serve clients in Canadian County, Oklahoma, and throughout Oklahoma County, Custer County, Blaine County, Kingfisher County, and Caddo County. Contact us today.