What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident

04082013_-_Venice_Beach_hit-and-run_(9573228828)Accidents happen every day. Fortunately, most are not serious and result in only minor injuries. Sometimes, a serious accident happens, and the other driver involved does not stop. It is important to know what to do if you were involved in a hit-and-run accident. Immediately after the accident occurs, identify the other vehicle and driver. If possible, get the make, model, and tag number of the vehicle. However, do not chase the other driver, since this could be unsafe. Remain with your vehicle and follow the following steps.

Call the Police

Call the police immediately. The police will document the accident and try to find the other driver involved. They will also take a statement from you and from any witnesses. It is important to note that according to California law, you are usually required to file an accident report with the California Department of Motor Vehicles, the DMV, within 10 days of the accident.

Pull Over to Safety

If your vehicle is blocking the roadway, it may be best to pull to the side of the road, if your vehicle is drivable. Do not step outside of your vehicle in traffic, since this could be unsafe. Instead, put your hazard flashers on, and wait for law enforcement. If you can do so without putting yourself in danger, take a photo of the accident scene prior to moving your car.

Seek Medical Attention

If you are hurt, you should seek medical attention immediately. The police will call for an ambulance for those who are seriously injured. Many times, accident victims do not feel hurt at the time of the incident. Only later do some of the injuries become apparent. When you visit the hospital or doctor after an accident, be sure to let them know that the injuries were caused by the crash. The physician should include this in the medical report.

Why Drivers Leave the Scene

Drivers who are responsible for hit-and-run accidents may leave the scene for a variety of reasons. They may not have a valid driver’s license, or may not have proper vehicle registration or insurance. The driver may be wanted on other charges or may already have some other violations and do not want to add to them. In some cases, the driver may be intoxicated, or driving while impaired. He or she may not want to face DUI charges, or may not be thinking clearly at the time of the accident. Regardless of the reasons, the police will do whatever they can to locate the responsible party. In most cases, the other driver will be found and brought to justice.

Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

If you have been seriously injured, your medical treatment will probably be extremely expensive. The medical costs and other damages should be paid for by the responsible party. An aggressive attorney will work hard to get you the compensation you deserve. If you have been hurt in a hit-and-run accident, you need help from the experienced legal team at Brod Law Firm. Contact us today at 800-427-7020 to schedule a free consultation.

 

(image courtesy of WiLPrZ from Rabat)

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