When a driver causes a crash and flees the scene, that can make it tough to hold them accountable for the harm that they have caused. It’s not impossible to claim compensation if you were injured in a hit-and-run though. Our Washington, D.C. car accident lawyers can tell you what you should do after an accident like this.
What Steps Should I Take After a Driver Flees the Accident Scene?
First, you should write down any details you can about the driver who flees the scene. A physical description of them and their vehicle can be helpful. Then you should:
- Call the police to the scene
- Talk to any witnesses
- Take photos of the damage and the accident scene
- Look for nearby cameras that may have caught the crash
Once you have talked to the police and have been told how to get a copy of their report, you should seek out medical care as soon as you can. Even if you don’t feel hurt right now, there could be something wrong and you are better off addressing it now rather than later.
Do I Need a Police Report?
It’s a good idea to have a police report. Whether the driver who flees is eventually found or not, this can help you claim compensation. It can be used by your insurance company or the other driver’s insurer. Even if a report does not directly assign blame, the information inside can be useful when someone needs to learn more about the accident.
Is It Common For Cops to Catch a Driver Who Flees an Accident Scene?
It can be tough to find a driver who flees after a crash. This is why it’s important to give the police as much information as possible when you call them to the scene. The more you can tell them about the driver and their car, the better.
If the driver is never caught, then you would have to go through your own insurance policy. Uninsured driver coverage, personal injury protection coverage, and collision coverage can all help you pay for expenses stemming from the accident. It can be irritating to realize that a hit-and-run driver will never be held accountable, but you can at least claim some compensation for the accident this way.
When Should I Hire a Lawyer?
If the other driver is found, a lawyer from our firm can help you hold them accountable and sue them for damages. We can help you build a case that shows how they were negligent and calculate fair compensation. If the driver is not found, our lawyers might still be able to help. When you go through your own insurance for compensation, you may encounter issues, like your insurer not wanting to pay out. We can help you with any necessary negotiations.
Meet With Our Legal Team
If you want to learn more about your legal options, contact Trombly & Singer, PLLC to schedule a case consultation. Every case is unique, so we are ready to tailor our strategy to your specific circumstances and help you claim the compensation that you deserve.
