People who are involved in a motor vehicle crash are often in a state of disbelief after the crash. That will likely increase if you’re involved in a hit-and-run wreck. This event can leave you shaken and confused, but how you handle it can have a significant impact on your future.
One of the most important things to remember is that safety must come first. Contacting authorities to come to the scene is important. Ask for emergency medical assistance if it’s needed after the hit-and-run crash.
Jot down information
As soon as you can safely do so, try to jot down what you can remember about the vehicle that struck you. Doing this in writing may not always be possible, so you may have to use a voice recording app to dictate what you remember.
If there are witnesses, get their contact information. They may be able to provide little details that can help police officers to determine who struck you.
File a police report and notify your insurance
Report the crash to law enforcement as soon as possible. A police report creates an official record of the incident, which is essential if you’re hoping to file a claim or pursue further legal action.
You’ll also need to notify your insurance company. Depending on your policy, coverage like uninsured motorist protection or collision coverage may help pay for your medical expenses or car repairs, even if the at-fault driver isn’t located. Be sure to ask your insurer about the specific coverage you have and what information they need.
Track medical and financial impacts
Hit-and-run crashes can lead to significant injuries that are costly. You should keep track of all information related to the injuries, as well as the costs that are associated with the wreck. This is important if the driver is found and you opt to seek compensation.
Compensation in these cases can be complex, so it may be necessary to work with someone who’s familiar with these matters. These cases must be filed within a specific time limit, so it’s critical to get them filed quickly.