If you are involved in an auto accident that leaves you with serious injuries, you will already be dealing with many issues. However, when your injuries have been caused by a hit-and-run driver, your case becomes even more complex. Since you must be able to find and identify the driver who hit you before you can file a claim with the insurance company of the at-fault driver, time is of the essence. To make sure you receive compensation to pay medical bills, replace lost wages from your job, and ease your emotional and physical pain and suffering, be sure to take these steps following your accident.
Remain at the Scene
Even though you may be tempted to chase down the driver who hit you, it is best to remain at the accident scene. If you don’t, an insurance company could raise doubts that the accident even took place as you stated.
Call Police
As soon as you can after the hit-and-run, call police to the accident scene. By doing so, you can give them a description of the vehicle that struck you, and hopefully the license plate number as well. Also, police will file an accident report documenting what took place, which will be critical when you file your claim with an insurer.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you are not sure whether or not you have suffered serious injuries, seek medical attention following your accident. Whether this means allowing paramedics to examine you at the scene and take you to a hospital for further evaluation or choosing to visit your family doctor within the next day or two, don’t delay seeking treatment. Since some injuries, including whiplash and brain injuries, may not display symptoms immediately, don’t put your health at risk unnecessarily. In addition, delaying treatment will also let an insurance company claim you were never seriously injured in the accident.
Document the Accident
If possible, take photos of the damage to your vehicle, any visible injuries you have, and anything else you think may be relevant. In doing so, you will make it hard for an insurance company to claim the accident never happened.
Speak to Witnesses
If others saw what happened, try to get statements from as many witnesses as possible. Along with this, make sure you get their contact information, since your attorney will probably want to speak to them later on to get more details about the accident.
Hire an Experienced Attorney
Perhaps most importantly of all, hire an attorney who is experienced in handling hit-and-run auto accident cases. Along with giving you objective advice about your case, your attorney can also conduct an in-depth investigation into the accident, negotiate a settlement with the insurance company, and make sure your legal rights are protected throughout the process.
If you have been injured by a hit-and-run driver, hold them accountable for their reckless endangerment of your life. To do so and get the compensation you deserve, consult an auto accident attorney at D.R. Patti & Associates.
D.R. Patti & Associates
720 S. 7th Street, 3rd Floor Las Vegas, Nevada 89101
(702) 331-3391
