Hit-and-run accidents are more common than we would like to think. Despite state laws that require drivers to remain at the scene of a collision, the fact is that many drivers do not. Motorists have many motivations for leaving the scene. For example, negligent drivers may not want to interact with police because of an outstanding warrant or because they are driving without proper insurance. Regardless of their motivations for doing so, leaving the scene of a crash is illegal.
If you were a victim of this kind of incident, you might want to seek fair compensation for the losses that resulted from another party’s negligence. Knowing what to do after a hit-and-run could help you track down the at-fault driver or claim compensation through your insurance policy.
Obtain as Much Information as You Can from the Scene
Just because a driver flees the scene of a collision does not mean they will get away with it. Very few collisions occur where the victim and the other driver are the only people present. Talking with other drivers or people on the street could help you obtain the license plate number of the at-fault party and allow you to file a police report with their information.
Similarly, drivers with dashcams can typically identify an at-fault driver’s vehicle if a vehicle is visible during the collision. Surrounding buildings and traffic lights may also have cameras that help record the crash. An attorney could help gather this evidence to develop a personal injury case and bring hit-and-run drivers to justice.
Determine What Protections Your Insurance Policies May Provide
Most people seeking compensation after a car crash will demand payments from an at-fault driver and their insurance company. However, this is impossible if you cannot identify the at-fault driver. As a result, many victims assume they must bear the burden of their losses on their own.
Thankfully, this is not always the case. Instead, many insurance policies contain uninsured or underinsured protection. These clauses go into effect when an at-fault driver does not have proper insurance coverage as required by state law. The same concepts apply to cases where it is clear that another driver was involved in a crash but later fled the scene.
These clauses can provide compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and even emotional traumas connected to a car crash. An attorney could help determine if your specific policy provides these protections and work to make it clear that a collision was not your fault.
Speak with a Lawyer Now to Determine What to Do After a Hit and Run
Every collision between two vehicles is someone’s fault. In addition, state law requires drivers to remain at the crash scene. Sadly, these facts do not prevent some drivers from committing hit-and-runs, putting you in a difficult position.
Identifying a driver after an accident of this nature may be possible through video footage from cameras or witnesses to the collision. If you can make this identification, you may be able to file a claim on the negligent driver’s insurance policy. It may also be possible to collect compensation if your insurance policy has provisions for underinsured or uninsured drivers. Talk with an attorney now to hear more about what to do after a hit and run.
