A hit-and-run accident can be devastating. Getting into a car accident is already bad enough. You may be late to a meeting, on the way to pick your kids of from school, or you may have been injured in the accident. However, when you are in a car accident and the other driver flees the scene, you may be dealing with more than just the stress of the accident. Especially if the accident caused serious injuries, you may wish to file a lawsuit against the other driver so that you can recover compensation for your injuries. This can be very hard to do if the other driver never bothered to stop.
Should I call the local authorities?
An attorney like a hit and run accident lawyer from a law firm like David & Philpot, P.L. understands that right after an accident occurs your first thought may not be to call the police. You may not want to involve them or you may still be coming to grips with the fact that you were in an accident. However, if you believe that you or someone else was seriously injured as a result of the accident, or if there is property damage that will cost a significant amount of money, you should get the police to the scene as quickly as possible. Additionally, in hit-and-run cases, the police may have helpful ideas for locating the hit-and-run drivers.
What are your options when someone hits you and flees the scene?
One of the best options you may have in this scenario is getting help from any witnesses who were at the scene of the accident. Before leaving the scene of the accident, speak with any witnesses who were there. See if they are willing to give you their contact information so that you can use this when you begin filing your lawsuit.
Is a person obligated to stay at the scene if they hit another car?
When a person is involved in an accident, they must stay at the scene. Especially in instances where others appear to be injured, the driver responsible should stay to see if they can help with the injuries while waiting for law enforcement to arrive.
Hit-and-run accidents can be extremely complicated which is why it may be wise to seek out help from a local attorney who has worked with hit-and-run cases. You should not be financially responsible for someone else who caused your property damage or injuries.