Being injured in a car accident is traumatic under any circumstances, but when the other driver flees the scene, that trauma is amplified by uncertainty, frustration, and fear. Hit-and-run accidents are not only illegal; they leave victims wondering how they’ll pay for medical bills, car repairs, and lost income. If you or someone you love has been injured in a hit-and-run, it’s important to take specific steps to protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover compensation.
What to Do Following a Hit-and-Run Accident: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Get Medical Help Immediately
Your health comes first. If you’re seriously injured, call 911 or have someone do it for you. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s critical to be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Some injuries, like concussions, internal bleeding, or soft tissue damage, can take hours or even days to become apparent. Prompt medical attention also creates an official record of your injuries, which can help support your claim later on.
2. Call the Police and File a Report
Always report a hit-and-run accident to the police. An officer will document the scene, gather any available evidence, and take witness statements. Make sure to get a copy of the police report or the report number. It will be essential when filing insurance claims or working with an attorney. In many states, failing to report an accident—especially one involving injury or property damage—can also impact your ability to seek compensation.
3. Gather as Much Information as You Can
Even if the other driver sped off, try to recall and record any details you noticed:
- The make, model, and color of the vehicle
- Any portion of the license plate number
- The direction the vehicle was heading
- Descriptions of the driver or passengers
- Witness names and contact information
- Photos or videos of the scene, damage, and your injuries
If you were unable to collect this information at the time of the crash, don’t worry—security cameras, traffic cams, and witness accounts may help later on.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Even though the at-fault driver fled, your insurance policy may still cover your losses. Most car insurance policies include uninsured motorist coverage (UM or UM/UIM), which can provide compensation for injuries caused by a hit-and-run driver. However, insurance companies don’t always make this process easy. Stick to the facts and avoid giving recorded statements without speaking to a lawyer.
5. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
Hit-and-run cases are complex. An experienced personal injury attorney like Andrew Maze can help investigate the accident, deal with uncooperative insurance companies, and explore all possible sources of compensation. Your lawyer may be able to track down the fleeing driver, identify third-party liability (such as a bar that overserved the driver), or find other creative ways to build your case.
An attorney can also protect you from common mistakes that could harm your claim, like missing deadlines, saying the wrong thing to an insurance adjuster, or undervaluing your damages.
6. Keep Track of Your Damages
Document all expenses related to your injury, including:
- Medical bills and prescriptions
- Time missed from work
- Mileage to and from doctor’s appointments
- Repair estimates for your vehicle
- Pain and emotional distress
The more detailed your records, the stronger your case will be.
What to Do if You’re Injured in a Hit-and-Run
Being injured in a hit-and-run accident is frightening and unfair, but you don’t have to face it alone. Acting quickly, staying organized, and seeking legal guidance from an experienced attorney like Andrew Maze can protect your rights and increase your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. Remember, fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime, but your recovery doesn’t have to be a mystery. Help is available, and justice is possible.