Steps to Take if You Are the Victim of a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you have been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you may not be sure what you should do next. These accidents can be so frightening that they leave you stunned, disoriented, and confused about how to proceed. These are the most important steps you should take in the event of a hit-and-run accident.

Stop Your Vehicle.

If you are driving at the time of the accident, pull over your vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so. Make sure that you are in a spot where you won’t be at risk of being hit by other vehicles. Don’t try to pursue the other vehicle, as this can put you in a dangerous situation. Once you’re in a safe place, contact the police and report the accident right away.

Write down Your Observations.

When you’re no longer in any immediate danger, grab your phone and write down as much as you can remember about the other vehicle and the circumstances of the accident. If you can see the other vehicle’s license number, repeat it out loud to yourself until you can write it down. Even a partial license number will be helpful.

Talk to Witnesses.

It’s likely that there were other people in the area who saw the accident happen. Try to talk to anyone you can find, and get their contact information. Having witnesses will be important to establishing the factuality of your account. Be sure to ask witnesses about their impressions of the other vehicle, such as its color, its model, and any distinguishing features such as a bumper sticker.

The Auto Accident Law Firm of Kevin Paul Childers has been providing legal services to the community of Manassas, VA, since 1984. If you would like to request a free, no-obligation consultation so we can discuss your auto accident injury case, call us today at (703) 330-6300.