Being involved in any car accident can be a traumatic experience, but a hit-and-run accident can be particularly distressing. The suddenness of the event and the uncertainty of not knowing who caused the accident can leave victims feeling overwhelmed and wondering about their next steps. At the Halperin Law Center, we’re committed to helping you navigate this challenging situation. Here’s what you should do if you’re injured in a hit-and-run accident.
Ensure Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety should be your top priority. Immediately after the accident, ensure that you’re vehicle has come to rest in a position of safety. Oftentimes, secondary collisions can occur after an accident. If you are not in a position of safety, move to one if possible. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries; if anyone is seriously hurt, call 911 right away. Even if your injuries seem minor, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is crucial. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but can manifest later. A medical evaluation ensures that your injuries are documented, which is essential for proving future legal claims.
Call the Police
Report the accident to the police immediately. If possible, provide them with as much information as you can remember about the incident and the fleeing vehicle, such as the make, model, color, and license plate number. If you could see any identifying characteristics about the driver or any passengers, provide that information as well. The police report will be critical evidence in your case, and law enforcement will begin the search for the hit-and-run driver.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
While waiting for the police to arrive, try to gather as much evidence as possible. If you can, take photographs of the accident scene, your vehicle, and any visible injuries. Look for witnesses who may have seen the collision and ask for their contact information. Witness statements can be invaluable in corroborating your account of the incident. This information should be provided to the police, as well, to assist in their investigation.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all the details and any evidence you have gathered. You have coverage for your own injuries sustained in the hit-and-run accident under your uninsured motorist coverage should the police not be able to identify the driver who struck you. You have paid for this coverage. It will pay for your property damage and any personal injury. Furthermore, the insurance company cannot use these benefits as a reason to raise your rates if you are not at fault.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintain a detailed record of all medical treatments, expenses, and any other costs related to the accident. This includes medical bills, prescription receipts, photographs of any visible injuries or scarring, repair costs for your vehicle, and documentation of any lost wages due to time off work. Even your mileage to attend medical appointments is recoverable if documented. Keeping thorough records will support your compensation claim and ensure you are reimbursed for expenses.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be complicated and stressful. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can significantly improve your chances of securing the full compensation you deserve. At the Halperin Law Center, our skilled attorneys help you understand your legal options, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Identifying the responsible party can be challenging in hit-and-run cases, and obtaining full compensation can be challenging. An attorney can help:
- Investigate the Accident: We work with skilled investigators to gather additional evidence, such as surveillance footage or forensic analysis, to identify the hit-and-run driver or reveal the dynamics of the collision.
- Negotiate with Insurers: Insurance companies routinely try to minimize payouts. We zealously advocate on your behalf throughout the process to ensure the insurance company has the full picture of your damages and that you receive full and fair compensation.
- Pursue Legal Action: If the hit-and-run driver is identified, we can file a lawsuit to hold them accountable for your injuries and damages. Similarly, if the driver is not identified or did not have insurance coverage of their own (i.e., was driving without insurance) and your insurance company is unwilling to fairly compensate you for your damages, we can file a lawsuit to assist you in obtaining just compensation.
Being injured in a hit-and-run accident is a daunting experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. At the Halperin Law Center, we are skilled attorneys, dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to help you through this difficult time. If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
