The sheer volume of cars on U.S. roads at any given time of the day means there are infinite ways you can get into a road accident. It can happen to anyone at any time, on any day – often, when you least expect it. While all kinds of car accidents are unfortunate, it is especially devastating if you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA)’s Foundation for Traffic Safety, at least one hit-and-run collision happens every minute on U.S. roads. Since 2006, the annual number of accidents of this nature has averaged 682,000 cases. In 2016, these accidents resulted in 2,049 deaths, 337 of which happened in California.
Hit-and-run collisions are more challenging to deal with than most vehicular accidents because the other party involved flees the scene, leaving you vulnerable and your vehicle, damaged. So, keep these vital post-hit-and-run steps in mind because they make just make the situation easier to resolve:
Before and as the driver of the car that struck yours leaves the scene, make sure to gather as much information about them as you can. Look at their license plate and commit it to memory. Try to identify the make and model of their vehicle. Take note of the direction they’re headed to. These bits of information are crucial to help authorities locate and identify the at-fault party.
Your immediate concern after being involved in a hit-and-run accident should be your safety, as well that of your passenger, if any. Call 911 right away so they can send emergency medical responders as well as police officers to the scene.
While waiting for help to come, keep tabs on your physical health so you can report pain and injuries that are not immediately visible to the paramedics. Also, if your hand is free, write down or make a note on your phone as much detail about the accident as you can remember. The fresher it is in your memory, the better.
If you’re not severely injured and can move around, keep an eye out for anyone around you who might have seen what happened. Approach them and confirm if they saw what happened. If they did, ask them if they would be willing to become a credible witness to the accident. Their statement is important in the legal proceedings that may follow the hit-and-run accident you’re involved in.
Additionally, take photos of the scene where the collision took place, including the damages to your car. These photos may prove useful in determining the compensation you’ll receive and in correctly identifying the vehicle that crashed into yours.
One of the biggest problems a hit-and-run victim faces involves finances. You’d need to have your car repaired and attend to your medical needs. This is why it’s important to contact your insurance company right away. Share with your insurer the details of the accident and discuss your coverage. If you are in contact with a personal injury or car accident lawyer in Los Angeles, they will be even more helpful in getting you the legal assistance and compensation you rightfully deserve.
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, keep in mind that you’re not alone. The emergency services and police, your insurance company, and your lawyers exist to help you in this situation. LA Car Accident Lawyers, especially, is here as your advocate in a hit-and-run accident.
With over 20 years of collective experience in litigations across California, you can trust us to work tirelessly for the compensation you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation.
