What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident
After a car crash, all drivers involved are supposed to stop at the accident scene and exchange information. But sometimes they don’t. They flee the scene. They keep on going, never to be found again.
This can be a frustrating situation. What do you do? How do you get compensation for your accident?
Before a hit and run accident happens, get uninsured motorist insurance now. Tennessee has one of the highest rates of uninsured motorists, at just under 21%. Plus, this type of insurance can help you in the event of a hit and run. If you have this type of coverage, your insurance company will foot the bill for your bodily injury and property damage costs. If you have collision coverage, that may also be helpful, but it will not cover any damage to anything other than your vehicle, nor will it pay for medical expenses if you are injured.
If the hit and run accident has already happened, though, take these steps.
Make Sure You’re Safe
This is your top priority. Check yourself and any passengers for any injuries. Get your vehicle out of traffic, if possible.
Call 911
Even if you’re not hurt or the damage is minor, you should still call 911 to report the hit and run. That way, it will become a police record. You will receive a police report, which you can show to your insurance agent.
Gather Information
While you wait for the police to arrive, try to think of everything you remember about the other driver and their car. Take notes on the following:
- A description of the other vehicle, including the license plate number, make, model, color, damage, and any distinctive features
- The direction the vehicle was headed
- A description of the other driver, including their sex, race, hair length and color, and any distinguishing features
- The time and location of the accident
- How the accident happened
Also, take photos of the damage to your vehicle as well as the scene. If there were any witnesses, be sure to get their contact info so the police can follow up later.
Inform Your Insurance Provider
Contact your insurance company to file a claim. Each insurer has different requirements, but it’s best to file as soon as possible while your memory is fresh. You may want to inform them while you’re still at the accident scene in case you need roadside assistance. Once you’ve filed the claim, your insurer will determine what coverages apply.
Contact Us Today
A hit and run accident can put your life in a tailspin. What do you do? Who do you call?
A Mt. Juliet car wreck lawyer from The Law Offices of Christopher Eads, PLLC can give you the guidance you need. Even if the other driver has fled the accident scene, we can protect your interests and pursue the compensation you deserve. Schedule a consultation today by calling (615) 622-6060 or filling out the online form.
Source:
thezebra.com/resources/driving/what-to-do-after-a-hit-and-run/
