You Might Be Entitled To Compensation Even After A Hit-And-Run Accident
Hit-and-run accidents are a common problem in the United States. While most drivers remain at the scene of the accident, there is a sizable percentage of drivers who will flee the scene to avoid facing the consequences. This may cause you to be left with medical bills that your insurance provider will have to pay. However, there is still something you can do about this situation.
The Obligations of a Motorist After an Accident
Normally, after a car accident, a motorist is expected to remain at the scene of the accident until the police arrive. A hit-and-run accident is one in which a motorist instead drives away.
Some hit-and-run accidents are innocent. For example, the driver might not have realized that they were involved in an accident in the first place. However, more often, a hit-and-run accident occurs because the driver is trying to escape responsibility for the accident and may not be carrying auto insurance.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run
After the driver has left the scene of the accident, you will not want to pursue them. Chasing after the driver can be very risky. You might end up in an accident. Also, the driver fleeing the scene might be desperate and you might find yourself in a dangerous situation.
Make sure to move to a safe location. Approach any witnesses you see and ask them if they saw the accident. Also, if there are any surveillance cameras nearby, make note of them so you can get in contact with the owners of the surveillance cameras and obtain footage that you might be able to use. All of this information will be very valuable when you get in contact with an auto accident attorney.
Grab the License Plate
One thing that might help is the license plate number of the at-fault party. If you are able to remember the number, write it down. Doing so can assist law enforcement in tracking the culprit down.
How to Take Legal Action
Once you identify the culprit, you may be able to take legal action against them. With a hit-and-run accident, it's common for the motorist involved to not be carrying auto insurance. But you will still be able to take legal action by filing a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
The process of filing a lawsuit might seem difficult and complicated, but an auto accident attorney can guide you through the process and will also represent you if your case goes to court and you are not able to settle.