Hit and Run Accident: Essential Steps to Take for Personal Injury Claims

Being involved in a hit and run accident can be a traumatic experience. The shock and confusion in the aftermath of such an incident can make it difficult to know what to do next. However, taking immediate action is crucial to protect your rights. The lawyers at Ray Padilla Law outline below the essential steps to take after being involved in a hit and run accident, specifically focusing on personal injury claims.

Ensure Your Safety

The first and most important step is to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. If you are able, move to a safe location away from traffic and do NOT attempt to chase/follow the vehicle that hit you. Call 911 right away. If you or anyone else requires immediate medical attention, alert the dispatcher to get medical personnel.

Document the Details

Despite the shock, try to gather as much information about the accident as possible. Take note of the time, date, and location of the incident. If you saw the other vehicle involved, try to remember its make, model, color, and license plate number. Any details, no matter how small, can be valuable in identifying the responsible party.

Report it to the Police

Immediately report the hit and run accident to the police as they arrive on scene. Provide them with a detailed account of what happened and any information you have gathered. The police report will serve as important evidence in your personal injury claim.

What if They Can’t Find the Person Who Hit Me?

The next thing you’ll want to do is find your own insurance information, specifically your declaration page, which states what coverage(s) you have been paying for every month.  What you will be looking for is whether you carry  Uninsured Motorist Coverage.

If you, the authorities, and your insurance cannot find the person that crashed into you, then you still may be able to make a claim for compensation if you carry Uninsured Motorist Coverage. This can be as low as $15,000 of coverage, or up to $1 million or more.  No, this should not affect your insurance premium and you shouldn’t hesitate to proceed this way since that is exactly why you’ve been paying your monthly premium for.

Call Today for a Free Consultation

If you have been involved in a hit-and-run car crash, you may want the help of an experienced car crash attorney. Let us discuss your legal options in a free consultation. If you have a valid claim, we are ready to conduct an investigation and help you determine the best course of action. Our law office is ready to help, contact Ray Padilla Law, APC today at (619) 431-1187 (San Diego) to speak with Attorney Ray Padilla directly.  Please call even if it’s simply to ask, “what should I do?”