If you’re involved in a car accident in Virginia, the law requires that you stop and give contact information to the other person involved. However, not all drivers follow the rules and stay at the scene. If you’re involved in a crash, and the at-fault driver leaves the scene of the accident, it’s important you know your next steps. Steps to take after a hit-and-run

Your First Steps After a Hit-and-Run

In general, a hit-and-run occurs when someone is involved in a car accident—whether it’s with another car, a pedestrian, or a fixed object—and then that person leaves the scene without giving aid to an injured party or identifying himself. In some states, a hit-and-run can include an accident with an animal.

The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that fatal hit-and-runs have been on the rise since 2009, and your actions after this type of accident are important to your successful recovery and adequate compensation. After a hit-and-run, make sure to:

  • Get information. After the accident occurs, do your best to make mental notes about the model of the other vehicle, the color, any unique dents or stickers, the license plate number, the appearance of the driver, and the direction the fleeing vehicle was headed. Then, write it all down on paper while it’s fresh in your memory. Additionally, speak with any witnesses to the accident, and record their contact information.
  • Document your damages. As soon as you’ve moved your vehicle out of harm’s way, document the damage done to your vehicle by taking photos of it. Additionally, write down your version of what happened and the order of events as they occurred.
  • Call law enforcement. It’s important to inform the police that another driver left the scene of the accident. An officer can take your statement and make an accident report, which will help you and your attorney after you’ve been able to identify the driver.
  • Call your insurance company. Your insurance company should be aware of the hit-and-run accident. For this type of accident, it’s helpful to have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage on your policy, so your insurance company can begin to help you get medical assistance and get you safely back on the road.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage Can Help

It’s helpful to purchase UM coverage for your vehicles. Virginia law permits drivers to file claims against their UM coverages for compensation after hit-and-run accidents, and if the at-fault driver can’t be found, UM coverage can help you with:

Get in Touch With an Attorney Today

If you or a loved one suffered injuries after a hit-and-run accident, you need the help of an attorney who can advocate for you. The team at Kearney, Freeman, Fogarty & Joshi can use the information you collected at the scene to build a strong case and help get you the compensation you need. Contact us today by starting a live online chat on our website today.

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