If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, call 911 to report the crash and request medical assistance, even if your injuries seem minor. If it is safe to do so, document the scene. Speak with witnesses and collect their contact information.
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Uninsured motorist coverage may apply when the at-fault driver cannot be identified.
Because hit-and-run claims can be complex and insurance companies may dispute coverage or damages, consult a Charlotte hit-and-run accident lawyer.
Call 911 and Report the Hit-and-Run
Reporting the crash ensures that police and emergency medical responders are sent to the scene. Even if the other driver is gone and the damage seems minor, a police report is critical. It creates an official record of what happened, documents that the driver fled, and may help law enforcement locate the at-fault vehicle.
Provide clear, factual details about the accident, including the location, time, and any information you remember about the other vehicle. Insurance companies may require a police report. The report can play an important role in protecting your right to compensation.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel okay after a hit–and–run accident, get medical attention right away. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding, whiplash, or concussions, may not be immediately obvious. A prompt medical evaluation ensures your health and safety and creates official documentation of your injuries.
Medical records can also be crucial when filing an insurance claim or pursuing compensation, as they provide clear evidence linking your injuries to the accident. Never delay care, even if your symptoms seem minor at first.
Document the Accident Scene
After a hit-and-run accident, gather as much information as you can about the scene while it is still fresh. This helps your attorney build an evidence-based claim that accurately reflects what happened and the damages you suffered.
To document the accident scene:
- Take photos of your vehicle: Capture all visible damage from multiple angles. Include close-ups of dents, scratches, broken lights, or other affected areas.
- Photograph the surrounding area: Document skid marks, debris, or broken glass. Capture nearby traffic signs, signals, or intersections. These photos help reconstruct the accident and show the environment where it occurred.
- Collect witness information: Ask for the names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident. Ask if they would be willing to provide a statement. Witnesses can confirm your account of the incident and provide additional details about the fleeing driver.
- Document road and weather conditions: Note the weather, lighting, and traffic at the time of the accident. Include any unusual road conditions, such as potholes. The context can explain contributing factors and support your claim.
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Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
Prompt reporting ensures your claim is officially documented and kicks off the process of recovering compensation. Provide accurate, factual information about the accident, but avoid speculating about details you are unsure of.
Many insurance policies include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can protect you if the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Review your policy to understand your coverage limits and how UM coverage applies to hit-and-run accidents.
Insurance companies may ask for a recorded statement after an accident. Do not provide one until you understand your rights and the potential consequences. Recorded statements can be used to dispute your claim or reduce the payout. Consult a personal injury attorney before speaking to the insurance company.
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Call a Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer
After a hit-and-run accident, hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference in maximizing your recovery. Hit-and-run cases are complex because the at-fault driver is unknown or cannot be located.
A lawyer can:
- Navigate insurance claims: Insurance companies may try to limit or deny your claim, especially if the responsible driver is unidentified. An attorney knows how to work with your uninsured motorist coverage and other policy provisions to secure compensation.
- Investigate the accident: Lawyers can help gather evidence, track down witnesses, and obtain surveillance footage that might identify the fleeing driver.
- Document injuries and damages: Your hit-and-run accident lawyer will accurately document all your losses and file a detailed claim.
- Negotiate fair settlements: An attorney advocates on your behalf to secure fair compensation for your losses.
- Handle legal proceedings: If the case requires litigation, a lawyer can guide you through court processes, protecting your interests and increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
A hit-and-run lawyer acts as your advocate, helping you navigate the challenges of these cases while you focus on recovery. Without legal guidance, you risk underestimating the value of your claim or facing delays and denials from insurers.
Our Lawyers Will Tell You Exactly What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
At CR Legal Team, we empower clients with information. Our hit-and-run accident attorneys will tell you everything you need to know after a crash, so you can make informed decisions and protect the value of your claim. We Stand Up For You®.
Our personal injury firm has recovered billions of dollars for our clients and brings over 100 years of combined legal experience to every case. With more than 36 years in business, we have proudly served over 200,000 clients, helping them secure the compensation and justice they deserve.
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