What You Can Do After an Accident with a Hit-and-Run Driver

You’ve been struck by another vehicle and, while you sit dazed and thoroughly lost in your vehicle, you turn around to see that the other driver is fleeing the scene. You have no time to grab the license plate number or you only catch part of it, so now you aren’t sure what you should do. You have injuries and you know that this is just the start of a complicated case that will bring many difficulties to your life. Fortunately, you don’t have to face these moments alone.

Following Your Hit-and-Run Accident

Immediately following your hit-and-run accident, there are some steps that you can take so that you continue to keep yourself safe during this difficult time in your life. The first thing that you should understand is that you should never attempt to follow a driver who was struck you and then fled the scene. You could be put in a compromised position if you decide to do this. You might miss the chance to speak with eyewitnesses or you could put yourself in a dangerous stand-off with a driver who is not looking out for your best interests.

Some people also believe that they can handle one of these cases on their own but, the truth is, it is always a good idea to act from the start and build a team of parties who can help you through this time. For instance, you should always call 911 after an accident, especially those that include injuries or a hit-and-run driver who did not remain at the scene. You will speak with the police heavily about the details of your case. There are some specific things that you should always mention, including the make or color of the vehicle, what the driver may have looked like, whether or not the person got out of their vehicle before they fled the scene, or their possible license plate number if you are able to remember some or all of it.

It is also important to speak with both your attorney and the insurance company after one of these accidents so that you can get started on a variety of procedures that are in your best interest. Your attorney will be able to coach you on how to handle your interactions with the insurance company before you make that call, which is why it is important to speak with one immediately. Even when the driver has not been identified, you have to report your case to the insurance company so that you can get started on the process of how your damages will be paid.

Filing Your Claim 

If you have had experienced help on your side and the driver who caused your injuries has been found, you will be able to move forward with a personal injury claim against this especially negligent party who caused you such harm. This is always a step that should be taken when the driver in your claim did not carry protection to help you compensate. Filing a lawsuit might be your one chance to obtain the compensation you deserve and we don’t want this chance to get away from you.

At Katz Kantor Stonestreet & Buckner, we want to take this opportunity to extend a helping hand to you after you have been involved in a West Virginia personal injury accident. We understand how difficult it can be to face the reality that somebody would flee the scene after striking your vehicle, never stopping to check on you. Luckily, help is on your side. Contact us today at (304) 713-2014 to find out how we can play a vital role in your case.