Regardless of the circumstances, car accidents are downright scary. However, a hit and run accident is an additional shock to the system that can leave you in a daze. If you find yourself the victim of a hit and run accident, you are likely wondering what you should do next. Knowing what steps to take and how you should react after a hit and run car accident can help you approach the situation with a calmer and more focused attitude. As you may be able to imagine, hit and run accidents present numerous unique legal issues. Victims may be met with challenges when it comes to seeking and receiving compensation, as it can be difficult to track down the individual(s) who committed the crime. On the other hand, hit and run accidents typically come with a few significant civil and criminal consequences for the at-fault party. Because of these challenges, it is important that you speak with an experienced car accident attorney if you are the victim of a hit and run accident. In most cases, the legal consequences of hit and run accidents are far more severe than ordinary car accidents.
If you ever find yourself joining the ranks of the many hit and run accident victims in the United States, it is important to divert your focus from any feelings of panic and anger, but instead call an Oklahoma personal injury lawyer right away. Below we will go over a few additional steps that should be taken immediately following a hit and run accident:
- Gather as much information as possible. While this is true of any accident, it is especially important that you try and gather as much information as you can after a hit and run accident. Sure, you won’t be able to exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver, but any type of identifying information will help when it comes to tracking down the person who committed the crime. Do your best to pay attention to the make and model of the other driver’s car, including any identifying marks, such as stickers, dents, and a cracked windshield or broken windows.
- Talk to any witnesses. In many cases, witnesses are imperative to whether or not a hit and run driver is caught. As soon as the accident takes place, look around and keep an eye out for anyone that you think may have witnessed the accident. If other motorists or pedestrians observed the crash, they may be able to help identify the perpetrator. Gather the names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses of any and all witnesses, and ask them to give a statement to police as soon as possible.
- Call an attorney. As briefly mentioned above, it is highly recommended that you contact a personal injury attorney soon after being involved in a hit and run accident. This is especially true if your insurance company isn’t cooperating or if police have already located the person who made you a hit and run accident victim. An attorney will be able to help you recover damages for all of your costs, and more.
- Call your insurance company. Depending on what type of coverage you have, your insurance company should be able to compensate you for any injuries sustained as well as damages to your vehicle. It is important that you contact them right away, as they will be able to tell you how to proceed otherwise.
If you or a loved one is the victim of a hit and run accident, contact AMA Law today. Our experienced personal injury lawyers know what it takes to recoup damages from these types of accidents and we are prepared to fight for your rights.