One of the worst things someone can do after they cause an accident is fleeing the crash scene. If you are an accident victim, and the person at fault drives off, your first question may be how you are going to recover. There are options a victim of a hit-and-run can take, but they need to act fast.
The average cost of property damage in a car accident is more than $3,000. If you received an injury in your accident, it could cost thousands of dollars more to recover. You should not be the one who pays for damages you did not cause; here is what you can do to recover.
Gather information
If you can recall information about the vehicle that struck you like its make, model, color, or license plate information, call the police immediately. Witnesses may be able to provide this information as well. Immediately following an accident, any car with fresh damages to the body will be easy to spot for police.
Look for recording devices
While you may not have been able to collect information about the fleeing driver, a camera might have. Look for cameras that may have recorded the crash, ask for a copy of the footage. This footage may be the evidence you need to hold a reckless driver accountable.
Look to your insurance
Uninsured or under-insured motorist coverage covers accidents exactly like a hit-and-run. For the cost of a few extra dollars a month, your insurance can help you recover. You may also be able to collect compensation through “medical pay” coverage.
Speak to an attorney
Attorneys know how to pursue liable parties in hit-and-run accidents. They also know how to negotiate with insurance companies who are trying to avoid paying victims. Their negotiations can hold help a victim earn the maximum possible compensation, rather than just a minimum payout to quite the victim.
After calling the police to report the accident, your next step should be calling an attorney to begin pursuing your compensation from either the fleeing driver, another liable party, or your insurance. Do not let the cost of recovery come from your pocket.