You’re driving down the street, and you notice a car careening out of control toward you. You try to swerve your car away from their direction, but it’s too late. Out of the corner of your eye, you see your driver’s side hit the other car.
You get out of your car to look at the damage, but they speed away. You’re left to wonder what to do next. You have a hit and run accident, and you have to report the incident.
But what do you do next? Keep reading for the answer to that question and more.
Assess Your Safety
After an unexpected accident, it is important to assess your safety and the safety of others. Even if you are not directly involved in the accident, the potential for harm still exists. It is important to note your physical safety and make sure you are not in any medical distress.
It is also essential to assess the safety of the surrounding area. If you are on a highway, for example, check for any resulting debris or dangerous objects. These could cause harm to other drivers.
Additionally, be aware of road hazards such as skidding cars or blocked lanes. Be sure to take the necessary precautions and assess your safety. With this, you can help ensure that all parties involved in the accident remain safe and unharmed.
Call the Police
Call the police as soon as possible. Many people choose to not call the police after an accident, but this is a mistake. Below are a few reasons why you should always call the police.
They Can Help Gather Evidence
This is especially important if you want to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action against the driver who hit you. The police will document the accident scene and collect any witness statements. This evidence can be vital in building your case.
They Can Help Identify the Driver Who Hit You
If the driver who hit you leaves the scene without exchanging info, the police may be able to track them down. They can do this by using witness descriptions or surveillance footage.
It Shows That You Take Accidents Seriously
If you don’t call the police, insurance companies may view it as a minor incident and deny your claim. Additionally, if you do end up taking legal action, not calling the police could reflect negatively on your credibility as a plaintiff.
They Can Assist if You’re Injured
If you’re injured in an accident, the police can help arrange for medical transport. They can ensure that you receive prompt medical attention after receiving car accident injuries.
Compile Information
There are many reasons why you should compile information after an accident. One is so that both parties have each other’s contact information in case there are any issues later on.
And if the police become involved, they will need to know what happened and who was there. If there is damage to either vehicle, it is important to document this so that it can serve as evidence later on.
Taking pictures of the scene can also be helpful. These pictures can provide a visual representation of what happened.
And if you got injured, document any medical care you receive and keep track of any expenses. Doing this will help make sure that you receive maximum compensation for your losses.
Inform Your Insurance Provider
Your insurance company will be able to help you file a claim and may be able to offer extra coverage.
If you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance company will likely cover the damages caused by the other driver. Yet, it’s still a good idea to contact your insurer after the accident so they can help you with the claims process.
If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, you may still be able to file a claim with your insurer. This is if you have collision coverage. Collision coverage will usually only cover damage to your vehicle, but it’s worth checking with your insurer to be sure.
Call an Attorney
An experienced attorney can help you navigate the often complicated legal process. They can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Below are some of the main reasons why you should consider calling an attorney right away.
To Preserve Your Rights
Hiring a lawyer allows them to gather evidence while they are still fresh. Without an attorney, it may be more difficult to prove who was at fault for the accident. Without this accident attorney, you may not be able to recover any damages you may be entitled to.
To Maximize Your Compensation
An attorney will know how to negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your compensation. If you try to handle the claim on your own, the insurance company may lowball you or deny your claim altogether.
To Get Help With The Legal Process
The legal process can get complicated, especially if the at-fault driver is not found. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the process and ensure that all the paperwork gets filed promptly.
Don’t Leave the Scene of the Accident
It can be tempting to leave the scene of an accident, especially if you are not injured, and there is no damage to your vehicle. However, it is important to remember that hit-and-run accidents are serious crimes. If you leave the scene of an accident, you could get charged with a felony.
Staying at the scene of an accident is the best way to ensure that you will not get charged with a crime. It also allows police to gather evidence and eyewitness accounts. These can help them identify the responsible driver.
Know What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident
Being involved in a hit and run accident is always hard. But knowing what steps to take next can help make the process easier.
Always remember to remain calm and take quick action to ensure that your rights are protected. If you need help or are unsure of what to do next, don’t be afraid to reach out for assistance.
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