When a driver causes an accident and flees the scene without exchanging information with the other driver or notifying the authorities, we have what’s called a hit-and-run. A hit-and-run can also happen with parked cars, like when someone hits your car and drives off without leaving a note.
In the U.S., and most of the world, this is illegal because the driver is supposed to stay, make sure everyone is okay, and share their details.
Furthermore, if you are a hit-and-run victim, even if you don’t have any injuries, your car insurance rates may go up (even if it wasn’t your fault). Not to mention that, if your policy doesn’t have proper coverage, you may end up paying out of pocket!
So, what is there to do? How can you make sure you don’t suffer unfair and unnecessary consequences? Here are a few tips to help you deal with such an unfortunate situation.
1. Don’t Run After the Runaway Driver
We know, your first instinct is to try and catch the runaway driver. How dare they have the audacity to flee after pooping their car into yours?
However, this would be the wrong approach. You don’t know what type of person is behind the other vehicle’s wheel and their mental state. Also, while trying to catch them, you might cause other accidents, which will only make things worse for you and your insurance policy.
The smart thing to do is to try and get as much information as you can from the fleeing driver. Try to get their plate number, color and model of the car, and the direction they were heading. Also, make sure to check the time and find out your locations.
In such situations, having a dash cam is a godsend (especially for hit-and-runs in a parking lot). In the heat of the moment, your eyes and memory may not be too reliable, but a recording device that activates upon impact won’t be swayed by emotions.
2. Contact the Authorities
The next step you must take is to inform the authorities. If there are any injured victims (including yourself), call the emergency services. Make sure everyone is taken care of before taking any other steps.
Next, or if there are no injuries, call the police and report the hit-and-run. Give them the information you have on the runaway driver and make sure they give you a crime number (for the insurance provider).
3. Gather Information and Talk to a Lawyer
Take pictures of the damage on your vehicle, the location, and anything else you may consider useful. Also, see if there are any eyewitnesses and take their contact information. Eyewitnesses can be very important if you weren’t near the car at the moment of the crash.
From this moment forward, it’s time to start looking for an experienced local lawyer who can help with your case. For instance, this car accident attorney in Tucson has plenty of experience in dealing with hit-and-run accidents due to their proximity to Interstate 10. You need someone familiar with the local rules and laws, so look for a similar level of experience at your location.
4. Contact Your Insurer
You must inform your insurance provider as soon as possible about the accident (your lawyer can help with this step). Depending on the type of coverage, you can receive payments for your medical bills or some repairs.
In Conclusion
Sadly, hit-and-runs are quite common in the U.S. (especially for parked cars), so it’s important to know what to do if your turn comes.
