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What should I do after a hit-and-run?

On Behalf of | Nov 30, 2020 | Motor Vehicle Accidents |

Nobody wants to deal with any kind of accident, but it is important to have a plan in advance. Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident is a special variety of frustrating that requires a specific approach.

It may be tempting to drive after the culprit as he or she is fleeing the scene, but this is not a good idea. According to State Farm Insurance, the best thing to do after a hit-and-run is to stay put and gather evidence.

Why should I stay put? 

Naturally, if after the accident your vehicle is blocking the flow of traffic you should move it. However, you should not drive off after the other person if he or she is fleeing. This is because it could confuse any eyewitnesses. If both cars drive off after an accident, it will be more difficult for eyewitnesses to determine who was at fault.

If anybody in your vehicle or around you has sustained an injury, make sure to call 911. Otherwise, call the non-emergency police number to file a police report.

Where can I get evidence from? 

If you have a smartphone or camera, taking photographic evidence of the accident may be helpful to you for insurance purposes. Additionally, make sure to talk with any eyewitnesses. It is possible that an eye witness may have a phone or camera and, as a result, have footage of the culprit.

If an eyewitness has a photo or video of the culprit or the license plate number, it is likely the police will be able to easily locate him or her.