So you’ve just been in a hit-and-run accident. Your first thought is probably to chase down the other driver, but that may not be the safest or smartest move. Instead, take a deep breath and focus on gathering as much information as you can.
Take the right steps now so you’re protected later. With some patience and the help of an experienced Macon car accident attorney, you’ll get this sorted out.
Remain Calm and Assess the Situation
The most important thing to do after a hit-and-run is to stay calm. Take a few deep breaths to avoid panic. Check if you and your passengers are injured. If so, call emergency services immediately.
If everyone seems okay, get to a safe spot and call the police to report the incident. Provide details about the vehicle that hit you, the direction it was traveling, and the location. The police may be able to locate the other driver or find security footage of the collision.
Try to stay positive. While hit-and-runs can be upsetting, the most important thing is that you and your passengers are safe. By taking the proper steps, reporting the incident, and cooperating fully with authorities, you increase the chances of finding the other driver and getting compensation for any losses.
Check for Injuries and Call for Help if Needed
The most important thing to do after a hit-and-run is to check on anyone involved for injuries. Call 911 right away if there are any signs of injury or if someone is unconscious or not breathing properly.
Even if there are no visible injuries, it’s a good idea to get checked out by emergency responders or see a doctor, especially if the accident involves a collision. Whiplash and internal damage can occur even at low speeds. Don’t tough it out – get medical attention as soon as possible.
After ensuring everyone’s safety, call the local police to report the hit-and-run. Provide the details of the accident, including the location, time, and direction in which the other vehicle was traveling. Describe the vehicle, especially any distinguishing features like bumper stickers, noticeable damage, or a memorable license plate number.
Document the Accident Scene and Gather Evidence
Once you’ve ensured everyone’s safety, gather as much information about the accident as possible. Take pictures of everything involved—the positions of the vehicles, the intersection or area of impact, any debris on the road, and damage to all vehicles. Get pictures of the license plate of the other vehicle, if possible. These photos will be critical for insurance and police reports.
Next, exchange information with any witnesses. Get their names, phone numbers, addresses, and accounts for what happened. Ask if they saw the direction the other vehicle went or if they can give a description of the driver. Even small details could help the police identify the other party.
Contact Your Insurance Provider to Report the Accident
The first call you should make after a hit-and-run accident is to your auto insurance provider. Let them know the details of the incident so they can start a claim for you. Your insurance company will likely need to know the location and time of the collision, the make, model, and license plate number of the other vehicle if you have it, as well as a police report number. Provide any details that could help identify the other driver.
Even though the other driver fled the scene, your insurance provider may still be able to track them down through clues left behind, like vehicle parts, debris, or security camera footage. They have teams dedicated to investigating hit-and-run claims and may be able to locate the at-fault driver to pursue reimbursement for costs related to the accident.
Reach Out to an Experienced Macon Car Accident Lawyer
A hit-and-run accident is traumatic and upsetting. You’re likely dealing with injuries, damages to your vehicle, and financial loss. The at-fault driver has fled the scene, leaving you with few options to recover compensation. However, help is out there. An experienced Macon auto accident lawyer can advocate for you and make sure your rights are protected.
At Bethune Law Firm, we have successfully represented clients in hit-and-run cases for years. Our team of dedicated car accident lawyers will handle the legal issues so you can focus on your recovery. Call Bethune Law Firm today at 1-800-INJURED for a free case review.
