What Should I Do If I Have Been Involved in a Hit and Run Car Accident?

 Posted on July 24, 2020 in Hit-and-Run Accidents

Most drivers know that stopping and exchanging contact information after a car accident is the right thing to do. Leaving the scene of an accident is not only unethical, it is also against the law. If you or a loved one have been hurt in a hit and run accident, you may feel confused and frustrated. You may also be completely unsure of what to do next. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take after a hit and run that will improve your chances of recovering compensation for your damages.

Get Medical Help Immediately

Many people do not realize the extent of their injures after being in a car accident because they are in a state of shock. Your injuries may be much worse than you realize. Injuries to the brain and spinal cord are often especially insidious. Your injuries may result in only subtle symptoms at first but then get much worse over time. Without documentation of the injuries after the accident, it may be hard to prove that your symptoms are in fact the result of the accident. Getting evaluated by a medical professional is the best way to ensure that your injuries are properly treated and that you have records of your injuries immediately after the accident.

Call the Police and Collect Evidence

Even if you think that the driver who hit you is long gone, it is imperative that you call the police. A police report is almost always needed for a personal injury claim. Furthermore, the information you provide to police may enable them to catch the person who committed the hit and run. If you are able to, write down every detail you can remember about the accident. Note the make, model, and color of the vehicle that hit you as well as any license plate information you can remember. Even a partial license plate number can help police catch the responsible party. Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and the location of the accident. If your injuries enable you to do so, collect contact information from any witnesses to the accident. These individuals may be able to provide valuable information to police.

Contact a Lake County Hit and Run Lawyer

Even if the driver who committed the hit and run cannot be located, you may still be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contact Salvi & Maher, L.L.C. to learn more. Call our office at 847-662-3303 today and schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a skilled Waukegan car accident injury attorney.

Sources:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-402

https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/auto-and-vehicles/what-to-do-after-a-hit-and-run