A hit-and-run accident can be a terrifying and frustrating experience. Unlike standard collisions where both parties exchange information, hit-and-run accidents leave victims with unanswered questions about liability, compensation, and the next steps to take. Understanding what to do after a hit-and-run can help protect legal rights, ensure proper medical care, and improve the chances of recovering compensation.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver flees the scene of an accident without stopping to provide contact or insurance information. These accidents can involve:
✔ Collisions with another vehicle – A driver hits another car and drives away without checking for injuries or damages.
✔ Pedestrian or cyclist accidents – A driver strikes a pedestrian or cyclist and leaves the scene.
✔ Property damage incidents – A vehicle hits a parked car, fence, or building without leaving a note or attempting to notify the owner.
Regardless of the circumstances, leaving the scene of an accident is illegal in most states and can result in criminal charges for the at-fault driver.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
- Check for injuries – Victims should assess themselves and others involved for any injuries. Even if no symptoms are present, medical evaluation is recommended, as some injuries take time to appear.
- Call 911 – Law enforcement and emergency responders should be notified immediately, especially if injuries are involved.
2. Gather as Much Information as Possible
Since the other driver has fled, collecting evidence is crucial. Victims should try to document:
- License plate number (partial or full, if possible)
- Make, model, and color of the vehicle
- Time, location, and direction the driver fled
- Damage to their own vehicle or injuries sustained
- Weather and road conditions at the time of the accident
3. Look for Witnesses
- Ask nearby pedestrians, drivers, or business owners if they saw the accident. Witnesses may have seen the fleeing driver’s vehicle or captured footage on a dashcam or security camera.
- Obtain witness contact information in case they are needed for statements later.
4. File a Police Report
- Report the accident to the police immediately. A police report creates official documentation, which is essential when filing an insurance claim or legal action.
- Provide all gathered details. If witnesses or surveillance footage are available, officers can use this information to track down the at-fault driver.
5. Notify the Insurance Company
Victims should report the hit-and-run to their insurance provider as soon as possible. Depending on the coverage, compensation may be available under:
✔ Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage – Many policies include UM coverage, which helps cover medical expenses and damages when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.
✔ Collision Coverage – If a policy includes collision coverage, it may help pay for vehicle repairs after a hit-and-run.
✔ Medical Payments (MedPay) or Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – These coverages can assist with medical costs regardless of who was at fault.
6. Check for Surveillance Footage
If the accident happened near businesses, homes, or traffic cameras, requesting security footage may help identify the hit-and-run driver. Many businesses retain footage for a limited time, so requesting it promptly is essential.
7. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
- If injuries or significant damages occurred, seeking legal representation is highly recommended.
- A personal injury attorney can help:
âś” Investigate the accident and locate the at-fault driver.
âś” Work with insurance companies to maximize compensation.
âś” File a legal claim if the driver is identified and refuses to pay damages.
What Happens If the Hit-and-Run Driver Is Found?
If law enforcement identifies the fleeing driver, they may face:
✔ Criminal charges – Many states classify hit-and-run as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the accident.
✔ Civil liability – The victim can file a personal injury claim to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
✔ License suspension or revocation – Many states impose driving penalties on hit-and-run offenders.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident can leave victims feeling helpless, but taking swift action increases the chances of securing compensation. Reporting the accident, gathering evidence, and working with an experienced attorney can help injured individuals recover financially and physically.
Apex Injury Law is dedicated to fighting for hit-and-run accident victims. If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run, contact Apex Injury Law today for a free consultation and legal guidance.
