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What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Hit & Run?
What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Hit & Run?
Hit-and-run accidents are a distressing reality on our roads, often leaving victims facing severe injuries and complex legal challenges. These accidents occur when a driver involved in a collision flees the scene without providing contact information or assisting those who may be injured. The aftermath can be overwhelming, but understanding the right steps to take can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. At Hampton Injury Law PLC, we have extensive experience navigating the injury claims process, especially in hit-and-run cases. Our dedicated attorneys are here to support you every step of the way.
Steps to Take After a Hit & Run Accident
1. Check for Injuries and Ensure Safety
The first priority after any accident is to check for injuries. Assess your own condition and that of your passengers. If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to get medical attention, as some injuries might not manifest symptoms right away. Additionally, move your vehicle to a safe location if it’s causing a hazard, but only if it’s safe to do so.
2. Contact Emergency Services
Promptly calling 911 to report the accident is essential. Inform the dispatcher of your location, the nature of the incident and any injuries. Emergency responders will provide necessary medical aid and law enforcement will document the scene, which is vital for your compensation claim.
3. Gather Information and Evidence
Collecting information at the scene is critical for supporting your claim. Try to recall and note down details about the other vehicle, such as its make, model, color and license plate number. Take accident location and vehicle damage photographs. Look around for potential witnesses and ask for their contact details. Also, identify nearby businesses or homes that might have surveillance cameras; they could have captured the incident. However, prioritize safety over evidence collection.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
As soon as possible, inform your insurance company about the accident. If you are a passenger, your driver should report it to his insurance company also. If either or both of you have underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage, this will be particularly important. Providing them with all the gathered information can help expedite your claim process. Any lengthy delay may may result in a potential coverage dispute. It’s often beneficial to let your attorney handle communication with the insurer to avoid any missteps that could jeopardize your claim. For these reasons, you should contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
5. File a Police Report
A formal police report is an essential document in hit-and-run cases. It serves as an official record of the incident and is used as evidence when filing your compensation claim. Be mindful of what you say to officers, as your statements can impact your case. A detailed and accurate report strengthens your position significantly.
6. Seek Legal Assistance
Navigating the legal complexities of a hit-and-run accident can be daunting. An experienced attorney from Hampton Injury Law PLC can guide you through the process, ensuring that no detail is overlooked. We will work diligently to maximize your compensation, covering both economic and non-economic losses. Our team is skilled in handling negotiations with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to court.
7. Adhere to Virginia’s Statute of Limitations
In Virginia, there is a two-year statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver in personal injury cases. It’s crucial to act within this timeframe to preserve your right to seek compensation. Exceptions may apply in specific circumstances, such as cases involving minors. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney ensures that all deadlines are met and your case is handled appropriately.
Contact an Attorney
Experiencing a hit-and-run accident can be traumatic, but taking the right steps can significantly impact your recovery and compensation. Remember to prioritize safety, gather as much information as possible and seek immediate legal assistance. Hampton Injury Law PLC is committed to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, contact us today for a case evaluation. Let us handle the complexities of your case while you focus on your recovery.
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*2022 settlement: Virginia Lawyers Weekly January 30, 2023 edition
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