What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be scary. Not only do you have to record incredibly accurate details at the scene of the crime, but you also have to face medical bills and property damage that someone else is responsible for. Fleeing the scene of a car accident is illegal in California, yet, hit-and-run accidents still happen. If you're ever the victim of a hit-and-run accident, here's what to do.
Study the car as it flees the scene. In most cases, hit-and-run victims only have a few seconds to collect information about the other car before it is out of view. Try to record as much information about the driver and vehicle as possible, including:
- License plate number, make, model, and color of the vehicle
- Any distinguishing features on the car, such as damage from the crash
- Physical characteristics of the driver
- The direction the car was headed
Look for witnesses. Witnesses often have a better view of the accident than the victims. If there are any businesses, restaurants, or public spaces nearby, ask employees or customers if they saw anything. Obtain contact information for any witnesses you speak with so you can contact them in the future for clarification.
Take pictures. Record information at the scene of the crash, taking pictures of your vehicle's damage and any injuries suffered. Also, take pictures of the area where the crash occurred, making sure to include any property damage caused by the crash.
Call the police. Explain to law enforcement that you have been in a hit-and-run accident, and have information about the car and driver ready. Take down the officer's name and ask for a copy of his or her report about the accident.
File an insurance claim. Call your insurer as soon as possible following a car accident. If you have your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and the police cannot locate the other driver, you can file a claim to get compensation. California law requires that each motorist carry a certain amount of uninsured motorist coverage, but you may have more, depending on the specifics of your policy. This coverage may help to pay for property damage and lost wages.
To find the right
auto insurance policy with uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, contact the experts at Little & Sons Insurance Services. Serving Banning and the neighboring cities in California, our dedicated team is ready to assist you with all your insurance needs.
