After a Hit-and-Run, You Are Not Alone
What is a hit-and-run accident?
A hit-and-run car accident occurs when a driver causes a car accident that results in injury or damage and then flees the scene without stopping to call the police, provide contact information, or accept blame. These accidents can involve other vehicles, pedestrians, bicyclists, parked cars, and even private or public property. Regardless of the circumstances, though, leaving the scene of a car accident is against the law in most states, including Ohio.
A hit-and-run accident can often create additional challenges for victims. Without the at-fault driver’s information, it can be harder to pursue compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and general pain and suffering caused by the accident. In some cases, the driver liable for the accident is never identified, making your insurance coverage and legal case especially complex. Understanding what qualifies as a hit-and-run and what the best next steps are can help ensure the accident is properly reported and handled from the start.
At Willis Spangler Associates, our personal injury team is well-versed in car accidents, including hit-and-run collisions. A trusted lawyer will work with you and law enforcement to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today at (614) 586-7900 to discuss your specific vehicle accident and learn how a hit-and-run attorney can help your case. You can also visit our car accident lawyer page.
Do not chase the other driver
If you are in an accident and the other driver flees the scene, your first instinct may be to follow them. However, chasing the other driver can put you in serious danger, as high-speed pursuits increase the risk of another accident and can lead to further injuries or damage. Additionally, the other driver may be dangerous and even cause intentional harm in order to get away.
Instead, focus on protecting your own safety. If possible, try to remember any key details, such as the other vehicle’s color, make, model, license plate number, or any distinguishing features. Writing these details down, or even recording a voice memo, can preserve information while it is still fresh in your mind. Even partial notes or memories of the car accident can be useful later. If there are any witnesses nearby, ask whether they saw the vehicle or captured anything on video.
Call 911 and seek medical attention
Calling 911 or the local police is imperative after any car accident, including a hit-and-run. The authorities will document the scene, create an official police report, and investigate the accident and drivers involved. This report often serves as critical evidence in auto insurance claims and your legal case.
It is also extremely important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries appear minor. Some injuries, such as concussions and soft-tissue damage, may go undetected by non-medical professionals immediately following the accident. However, medical care not only protects your health but also creates documentation linking your injuries to the accident, which can be vital when filing an auto accident claim.
Assess property damage
Once you are safe and any injuries have been treated, assess the damage to your car or other property. Take pictures and videos from multiple angles, including close-ups and wider shots of the surrounding area. Capture all visible damage, skid marks, any debris left behind, and your own injuries. If any personal items inside your vehicle were damaged, document those as well. Additionally, if the accident occurred in a parking lot or near any business or residences, note the presence of security cameras, as they may have recorded the accident.
If your car is no longer drivable, call for a tow truck and keep any related receipts. Documentation of property damage and other expenses can play an important role when filing an auto insurance claim or pursuing a compensation case later on.
Contact your insurance provider
After the accident, notify your insurance provider about the auto collision as soon as possible. Provide them with an accurate account of what happened, including the police report number, if available. Depending on your policy, you may be eligible for car accident coverage that can help pay for vehicle repairs, a rental car, or medical expenses related to your injury.
While it is important to report the accident promptly, be cautious about giving any recorded or written statements or accepting a quick settlement. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts and may propose an offer before you realize the extent of your injuries or expenses.
Hire a lawyer to work with your insurance company
A hit-and-run accident can quickly become complicated, especially when the at-fault driver is uninsured or remains unidentified. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help protect you by handling all communication with your insurance company, the at-fault driver’s insurance company, and exploring all available legal options for compensation.
An accident lawyer at Willis Spangler Associates can also help investigate the accident further. Having a lawyer on your side can relieve stress, ensure you do not settle for less than you deserve, give you time to recover from any injury, and grant you the peace of mind you need to move on.
Contact our team today!
Every lawyer at Willis Spangler Associates understands how overwhelming accidents can be, especially with the added stress of a fleeing or unidentified driver, and our team is here to help you take the next step.
We offer compassionate legal guidance, clear answers, and dedicated advocacy from your initial consultation to the final verdict. Contact our law firm to learn more about hit-and-run accidents or to talk about your case with one of our trusted personal injury attorneys today.