After a hit-and-run accident you often don’t get insurance or contact details from the person who caused the crash. That adds complexity to recovering for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Below are steps you should take if this happens to you, plus how legal help can assist.
First Priorities After the Accident
- Seek medical care right away even if you feel okay at first. Hidden injuries, internal bleeding, or trauma can worsen without treatment.
- Call the police. Make sure a report is filed. Law enforcement may review surveillance or other video footage to identify the fleeing car, get the make and model, or possibly track down the license plate.
Insurance and Coverage Options
- Use uninsured motorist coverage if your policy includes it. This part of your insurance may cover damages when the other driver cannot be found. To make use of this coverage you’ll need the police report and documentation of your injuries, vehicle damage, and other losses.
- Collision coverage (if you have it) may help pay for damage to your car regardless of the other driver’s identity. It might involve paying a deductible.
Possible Legal Considerations
- If the hit-and-run driver is later identified then their liability insurance may cover some or all of your losses.
- If the owner of a vehicle lent it to someone who committed the hit-and-run, and if permission was present, the owner’s insurance may be responsible.
- If the car was stolen, or if someone else committed wrongdoing involving the vehicle, liability may be complicated or limited.
What You Should Do to Protect Your Claim
- Report everything to your insurer promptly. Include all medical bills, photos, and documentation of vehicle damage.
- Take pictures of your injuries, your vehicle, the crash scene, any debris, skid marks, or surroundings.
- Get witness statements if there are any. Collect names and contact info.
- Preserve evidence such as damaged personal property, torn clothing, or other items affected.
- Keep all receipts, medical records, proof of lost wages or time off work.
Why a Lawyer Can Make a Difference
- An attorney experienced in hit-and-run cases can help determine whether all necessary insurance coverage applies and whether other parties might be liable.
- Lawyers can assist in gathering strong evidence, such as video recordings, police reports, and comparing your medical records.
- Legal counsel can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf or file suit if necessary, to make sure you get fair compensation.
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Disclaimer: The material provided in these blogs is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Reading these posts does not create, and is not intended to create, an attorney-client relationship with Hillstone Law. Our intent is to share knowledge, raise awareness, and provide helpful resources to the public; however, Hillstone Law makes no warranties or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided, and expressly disclaims liability for any actions taken in reliance on it. The photos used in these posts are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict actual clients, individuals, or incidents unless expressly stated. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please contact Hillstone Law at (855) 691-1691. Our attorneys are available to answer your legal questions and help you understand your rights.
