What to Do If Someone Flees The Scene of an Accident?
Hit-and-run cases are usually complicated because tracking down the driver and proving that they are liable for the injured person’s damages can be hard. You might never find the driver or have solid evidence to prove their fault and liability.
In the aftermath of a hit-and-run crash, you might feel shocked and overwhelmed. It’s difficult to imagine that anyone would flee after a crash involving other people. It’s also perfectly understandable to be confused about what to do next. Fortunately, you can take certain steps to help strengthen your claim if it’s safe to do so.
Obtain Medical Attention ASAP
If you’ve sustained serious and immediately apparent injuries, the first thing you must do is have your injuries assessed and treated accordingly ASAP. If you don’t feel that you are injured, it’s in your best interest to have a doctor evaluate your condition because some injuries may take some time to surface.
Keep in mind that filing a claim for any injuries you suffered due to a hit-and-run crash can be more challenging if you don’t have medical records to help prove that you sought medical attention after the crash.
Contact The Police
Aside from helping you track down the hit-and-run driver, the police can also get emergency help if needed. Also, the details you have observed during and after the crash can help the police in their investigation. Having a police report can also substantiate your claim for injuries and damages resulting from a hit-and-run crash when filing an insurance claim against your PIP coverage, uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, or the insurance coverage of the hit-and-run driver.
Gather Evidence
Examples of evidence that might help your case include:
- Videos and photos of the crash site, the injuries your suffered, weather conditions, road conditions, properties near the crash site, property damage, etc.
- Talking to witnesses and getting their contact details
- The names and badge numbers of the responding police officers
Hit-and-run crashes happen without warning, and while taking mental notes right after the crash is difficult, it’s crucial to do so. Noting details, including the driver’s appearance, the model, make, color, license plate number, and other characteristics of the fleeing driver’s vehicle, as well as the direction the driver went, can help the police find the negligent driver.
Discuss Your Case With a Clearwater Car Accident Attorney ASAP
One of the most vital things you can do to secure fair compensation for your damages after a hit-and-run crash is to talk to a Clearwater car accident attorney right away. They can use their resources and experience to help find the at-fault driver, investigate the incident, collect and analyze evidence, determine fault and liability for your losses, and file a PIP claim with your insurer or pursue a personal injury claim.
Get Legal Help From a Top Clearwater Car Accident Attorney Now
The Clearwater car accident attorneys at Tragos, Sartes & Tragos understand the challenges that victims of hit-and-run drivers face and have the skills and experience to navigate the legal aspects of your case on your behalf. Reach us online or dial 727-441-9030 to set up your free consultation with our Clearwater car accident attorney.