If you are the victim of a hit-and-run auto accident, there are certain things you need to do directly after the accident has occurred. Hit-and-run accidents are overwhelming and pose certain challenges for drivers when it comes to receiving compensation. That is why following the correct steps directly after the accident can help when you file a strong hit-and-run insurance claim.
At NBF Accident Law, our car accident attorneys are here to help you better understand how to report a hit-and-run accident and file a claim. Our attorneys will work tirelessly on your behalf as you gather evidence and pursue insurance coverage.
Does Full-Coverage Car Insurance Cover Hit-and-Run Accidents?
As long as you have auto insurance coverage, you should be able to get a certain amount of coverage after a hit-and-run auto accident. There are different types of coverage that can help with this depending on where you live and the different details involved in the accident.
Here are some examples of insurance coverage that you could tap into depending on your policy:
- Collision coverage: Even if the at-fault driver isn’t found, collision coverage can help pay expenses related to repairs or replacing your vehicle. Collision coverage is supposed to cover any type of property damage; however, this means that it won’t help with things like medical expenses or lost wages.
- Uninsured motorist coverage: If the at-fault driver isn’t located, they may be labeled as an uninsured driver, which could help you get uninsured motorist coverage. Depending on the circumstances and your policy, you may be able to use this for both property damage and medical expenses.
- Liability insurance: If the at-fault driver is eventually located by law enforcement, you may be able to get liability insurance coverage. This helps to hold the at-fault driver liable for your damages, including physical and property damages.
- Personal injury coverage: Some personal injury insurance policies can help you in the case of a hit-and-run auto accident. This will be very dependent on the type of coverage you have and the extent of your injuries.
Whether you are facing medical bills or property damage after a hit-and-run accident, you need to seek the help of an auto accident attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the claims process as well as understand the type of coverage you may be entitled to. Your attorney will also help you handle negotiation with your insurance provider so that your rights are upheld.
What to Do In a Hit-and-Run Accident
Although there are different types of insurance that can cover hit-and-run accidents, there are certain steps you need to take before filing your claim. In many instances, what you do directly after the accident can make or break your chances of getting the compensation you need.
Report the Accident
After you have checked yourself and any passengers for injuries, you need to report the accident by calling 911. Even if you don’t notice any immediate injuries, this is still a good time to request an ambulance so that you can get medical attention just in case.
When the police arrive at the collision scene, they will examine the situation to create their own police report. Later on, when you file your claim, having this police report will be essential for proving how the accident occurred.
You also need to report the accident to your insurance provider, but avoid providing more details than are necessary or accepting any type of settlement.
Collect Evidence
If you aren’t seriously injured after the hit-and-run accident, the next thing you should do is start to collect evidence at the scene of the collision. Some of the best ways to do this are to take photos of any property damage or physical injuries you have sustained. You can also take photos of the collision scene if you believe that could support your case.
Additional evidence to look for includes any traffic cameras or security cameras nearby that may have recorded the collision. There may even be vehicles around that have dash cams that may have recorded the accident as well.
Find Witnesses
There may have been bystanders or other drivers nearby who witnessed the hit-and-run collision. If that is the case, you should get their contact information so that they can later be contacted for a witness testimony.
You don’t need to worry about getting their testimony directly after the accident, as your attorney can handle this for you. If you aren’t able to get witness contact information, this will most likely be included in the police report.
Get Medical Attention
Whether you are injured or not after a hit-and-run, you should still get medical attention. Many car accident injuries are not immediately apparent, such as concussions or internal injuries. Getting medical attention can also create a paper trail regarding any injuries or medical expenses.
Try to keep track of any medical documents, doctor’s notes, or bills as this can help to save time later on when you file your claim.
Find an Attorney
Another step you need to take after a hit-and-run collision is to get the assistance of an auto accident attorney. You do not need to do this immediately after the accident but you should locate an attorney as soon as possible.
An attorney can help you collect evidence and build a strong hit-and-run insurance claim so that you can receive a fair settlement. They will also handle negotiation for you so that there is less risk of you accepting a lowball settlement offer.
Contact an Auto Accident Lawyer at NBF Accident Law
Hit-and-run auto accidents can be incredibly frustrating for drivers since this creates a more complicated process when seeking insurance coverage. However, by taking the correct steps directly after the accident, you can strengthen your claim so that you can get the settlement you deserve.
At NBF Accident Law, our car accident lawyers will fight purposely on behalf of auto accident victims, ensuring they get the compensation they are entitled to. We can help you collect crucial pieces of evidence and negotiate with insurance providers.
Contact us today at 206-923-8888 to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.
