What Should I Do After a Hit-And-Run Accident?

March 11, 2020

Hit-and-run accidents occur when a motorist hits another vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist and then leaves the scene of the accident without stopping, which can cause problems for the driver who was hit. Most importantly, if the driver was injured, and the at-fault driver failed to stop and call for help, the injured motorist may be left bleeding, unconscious, or worse. In addition, even though the hit-and-run driver caused the accident, the injured driver may have to seek compensation from their own insurance company because it can be difficult, if not impossible, to find the hit-and-run driver. There are important steps that hit-and-run victims should take to reach the best possible settlement.

Do Not Chase the Other Car after a Hit-and-Run

You may be angry and tempted to drive after the motorist who hit you, but there are several reasons why this is extremely unsafe. First, if you are chasing the car, you are probably going to be driving too fast in order to catch up with the other vehicle. In addition, the person who hit you may be dangerous or carrying a weapon.

Call 911 Immediately After a Hit-and-Run

Call the police immediately and provide the officer with as much information as possible. Having a police report on file will help your claim go more smoothly.

Take Detailed Notes

Write down as much information as possible, including the make, model, and color of the car that hit you, the license plate number if you saw it, the direction it was traveling, and any details about the driver. Any information may help police track down the driver.

Take Pictures

Take photos of your vehicle and the scene of the accident, including traffic signs, your injuries, skids in the road, and any other details that might be important or helpful. Try to take multiple pictures from different angles.

Talk to Witnesses

Witnesses who saw the accident can be very helpful in finding the car and locating the driver. Ask if they would be willing to provide a statement for the police report.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company to start the claims process. A skilled car accident lawyer can assist you with the claims process and address any questions or concerns.

Baltimore Car Wreck Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Justice for Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents

If you or a loved one was seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident, do not hesitate to contact the Baltimore car wreck lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton. We have a proven track record of reaching successful settlements for clients who were injured in hit-and-run accidents. We will work tirelessly to protect your legal rights and secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. Our dedicated team will not stop fighting for you until justice has been served. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Our offices are located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Prince George’s County, allowing us to represent victims in Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.