How to Handle a Hit and Run Car Accident
While it is natural to want to run away from problems and look away from mistakes, a hit and run is possibly one of the worst ways to handle a car accident.
In a normal car accident, the drivers of the vehicles involved typically exchange personal information such as their name, contact information, insurance company, and policy number. A hit and run accident, on the other hand, is when the driver of a vehicle leaves the scene of the accident without supplying any personal information. Commonly, this is done to evade taking responsibility and making payments towards car or medical damages.
Regardless of the reason, hit and run accidents can be an extremely stressful situation for the victim. Due to the difficult circumstances a hit and run accident can bring, it is important to be prepared in case you find yourself involved in one.
Hit and Run Accident Statistics
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, there were approximately 737,100 hit and run accidents in 2015. As a result of these crashes, there were unfortunately 1,819 fatalities. In the following year, 2016, the number of fatalities in hit and run accidents increased to 2,049 people. Furthermore, data supplied by the AAA Foundation for traffic safety shows the prevalence of hit and run accidents has been steadily increasing over the years. Hit and run accidents are a serious issue in the modern world and they are continuing to get more and more common.
Steps to Take in a Hit and Run Accident
Hit and run accidents can be a traumatic experience. If you find yourself caught in one, try to keep these steps in mind:
- Move your car to a safe location and check for injuries. Call 911 in case someone requires immediate medical attention. The police will also be able to make a report on the car accident.
- Try to take note of the other car if they have not fled the scene yet. Information such as the license plate, driver’s appearance, car make, and description of damage to the vehicle are all useful. The more detailed the information is, the easier the police can identify the perpetrator. It may also be helpful to see if any nearby witnesses have additional information on the accident.
- Regardless of the circumstances, do not chase after the driver if they are trying to leave the scene. Let the police handle it from that point; your safety comes first.
- Contact an attorney as soon as possible.
Involved in a Hit and Run Accident?
To add onto an already stressful situation, some insurance companies may not be as willing to pay for damages of an unidentified driver. If you are searching to alleviate some burden and get guidance on filing a claim, our experienced team at Payer Law is here to help. Our skilled Orlando hit & run accident lawyers are committed to bringing justice for victims of personal injury and their families. To schedule a free consultation, please do not hesitate to contact us at 866-930-1238 today.
Resource:
aaafoundation.org/hit-and-run-crashes-prevalence-contributing-factors-and-countermeasures/
aaafoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/18-0058_Hit-and-Run-Brief_FINALv2.pdf
https://www.payerlawgroup.com/how-to-handle-a-slip-and-fall-accident/
