How to Protect Yourself After a Hit and Run Accident

Being involved in a hit and run accident can be a frightening and frustrating experience. However, knowing how to react can help protect your rights and increase your chances of receiving compensation. Here's what you need to do:

 

1. Ensure Your Safety First

Your safety is paramount. If you're injured, stay in your vehicle and call for emergency medical assistance immediately. If it's safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid further accidents.

 

2. Call the Police

Contact the police right away. Filing a police report is crucial for insurance claims and any potential legal action. Provide as much detail as possible about the incident and the fleeing vehicle.

 

3. Gather Information

Try to remember and write down as many details as you can about the other vehicle:

• Make, model, and color of the vehicle
• License plate number (even partial information can help)
• Direction the vehicle was heading
• Any distinctive features of the vehicle or driver

 

4. Look for Witnesses

If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information. Their testimony could be valuable for your case. Remember, witnesses can be subpoenaed to testify if necessary.

 

5. Document the Scene

Take photos of the accident scene, including:

• Damage to your vehicle
• Any injuries you or your passengers sustained
• The surrounding area, including traffic signs and road conditions

 

6. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, it's important to get checked by a medical professional. Some car accident injuries may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical attention also creates a record linking your injuries to the accident.

 

7. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Check if your policy includes uninsured motorist coverage, which can be crucial in hit and run cases.

 

8. Don't Pursue the Other Driver

While it's natural to want to catch the person responsible, pursuing the other driver can be dangerous and may complicate your case. Leave this to the authorities.

 

9. Consider Traffic Cameras

Check if there are any traffic cameras in the area that might have captured the incident. Your attorney can help obtain this footage if available.

 

10. Consult with an Attorney

Hit and run cases can be complex. An experienced car accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process, deal with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.

 

Understanding Your Rights

In Missouri, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense. As a victim, you have rights, including the right to seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

 

The Role of Uninsured Motorist Coverage

In hit and run cases, uninsured motorist coverage can be crucial. This coverage can help pay for your medical bills and other damages when the at-fault driver can't be identified or doesn't have insurance.

 

Being the victim of a hit and run accident is challenging, but taking the right steps can protect your rights and improve your chances of recovery. Remember, you don't have to navigate this difficult situation alone. If you've been involved in a hit and run accident in St. Louis, contact the Hoffman Law Firm for a free consultation. We're here to help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.