State laws provide severe criminal penalties for people who flee the scene of a crash without calling or waiting for the local police. Some drivers attempt to evade responsibility after hitting another vehicle. But if you suffered serious injuries or property damage in a hit-and-run crash, your financial recovery options may be limited if you can’t find the driver that hit you. Many people wonder what they should do in a hit-and-run accident. Here are some guidelines to remember in case you experience a hit-and-run driver.
Try to Identify The Hit-and-Run Driver
Take a photo of the at-fault driver’s vehicle, and include the tag. Call the police. While waiting for them, follow the directions from the 911 operator, who may direct you to follow the other driver until the police can detain them. Write down all the details you can remember about the driver’s appearance, vehicle, and direction of travel.
Tell the police everything you know once they arrive. Ideally, you should also talk to witnesses who may have seen the accident and go around the area to see if nearby properties may have security footage of the crash. Take many photos of the vehicle damage, your injuries, the road, and the surrounding area, as these may be used as evidence for your claim or lawsuit later.
Receive Medical Attention As Soon As Possible
After talking to the police, you should head to the nearest hospital for a medical evaluation of your condition. This exam is critical even if you do not feel significant pain immediately after the crash. Bear in mind that some injuries, particularly those to the neck and head, may not present any symptoms until several hours or days after the accident.
Additionally, if you suffered any injury, you will have medical records of your diagnoses and treatment. You must have these records as evidence to substantiate your claim during insurance negotiations or in a trial.
Discuss Your Options for Recovering Compensation with a Georgia Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney
If you’re fortunate enough to have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, your insurer may pay for your losses in a hit-and-run crash. This coverage applies even if you never identify or locate the hit-and-run driver. If you can find the hit-and-run driver, you may pursue financial compensation through their insurance coverage or a personal injury lawsuit, regardless of whether or not the driver faces criminal charges for fleeing the accident scene.
An experienced Georgia hit-and-run accident attorney will be able to explain your options and guide you on how to best move forward with your case.
Talk to a Skilled Georgia Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney Today
The Georgia hit-and-run accident attorneys at Banks, Stubbs & McFarland have the resources and skills to help locate the driver that fled and uncover all sources of compensation you may be entitled to after getting injured in a hit-and-run accident. Please set up your free case evaluation with our Georgia hit-and-run accident attorneys by contacting us online or dialing 404-301-7980.
