What to Do When You're the Victim of a Hit and Run

What to Do When You're the Victim of a Hit and Run

By  Mohamad Alzibdah A very inconvenient type of car accident, a hit and run, implies where you or your car were hit by another car and... 3:06 PM

By Mohamad Alzibdah

A very inconvenient type of car accident, a hit and run, implies where you or your car were hit by another car and the culprit fled the scene leaving no information. Typical cases happen when someone bumps into your parked car, but at times even living people are victims of hit and run accidents where a driver simply speeds off out of fear.

In such accidents, it is normal to feel shocked and confused, but it is very important to keep a cool head as this will help you get the most help later. Here are the things you should do immediately after being involved in a hit and run to insure maximum protection.

Gather information

Like with most things, information is a powerful weapon. If you were at the scene when it happened, try to get the car model, number or any other distinctive features that may help find the driver. If you were not there when it happened, look around for potential witnesses or cameras. This all may help find the driver responsible later on.

Before leaving the scene, take some photos. Most people carry a smartphone with a camera, so make sure to record the situation as it happened. Even better, if you can, get a photo of the culprit's car. If you get that, you hit the jackpot.

File A Police Report

Don't be a hero and take things into your own hands. That's what the police are for. Immediately after an accident, if you are able, call the police. Even if they can't help right away, the police will get you to fill out a report and the process of searching for the culprit will begin. In time and with enough information provided, it is likely the driver will be found and you will be compensated appropriately.

If you do not file a police report, it will be very difficult for you to do anything really. Acting days after the incident may be too late, you may lose your witnesses and simply be in a much worse situation.

File A Hit and Run Claim

Whether you can or cannot find the responsible driver, you will want to file a claim. In the case you know who did it, you can file with their insurance company, and in such cases usually get a pretty hefty payment as a result of their negligence.

When the culprit remains unknown, you may still file this claim with your own insurer. Various insurance policies will allow for such incidents, and while it may end up raising your insurance rate in the future, a hit and run claim may mean you get the money you need for any car repair or hospital bills that may be incurred as a result of the hit and run.

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