What To Do After a Hit and Run Accident
Knowing what to do after a hit and run accident could be a mystery. It is common for our clients to experience intense emotions from trauma and shock to anger and abandonment.
If you were seriously injured in a hit and run accident, you need legal guidance to navigate the complex claims process and give you the best chance of recovering compensation for your losses. Our skilled legal team at Colling Gilbert Wright dives into this topic for your peace of mind, so keep reading.
Do Not Leave the Accident Scene
If you are involved in a hit and run accident in Florida, your immediate actions are critical for both your safety and your ability to recover damages later. Remember to stay at the scene. As tempting as it may be, never chase the fleeing driver. Besides the obvious dangers of confronting the other driver, leaving the scene (even if you are not at fault) could lead to criminal hit and run charges.
Make a Police Report and Gather Evidence
Once you know you are safe, call 911. Florida law requires reporting any crash involving injury, death, or significant property damage to law enforcement. While you await the responding office, document as much evidence as possible. Note of the other vehicle’s make, model, color, and any part of the license plate you may have seen, as well as unique features like bumper stickers or specific damage. Then, capture photos and videos that show the damage to your car, the location, road conditions, and any debris left by the other vehicle, such as broken glass or body parts. You should also check for surveillance or doorbell cameras at nearby businesses and homes, and if you notice bystanders, get their names and contact information. The testimony from these potential witnesses may be crucial to your case.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you were not seriously injured, you want to seek medical attention. Adrenaline may mask pain, and under Florida’s “no-fault” laws, you generally must seek treatment within 14 days to preserve your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits.
File a Claim and Take Legal Action
Now, report the incident to your insurance company. Since Florida is a no-fault state, your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) policy would likely cover the first $10,000 of your damages, including medical bills and lost wages. If law enforcement is unable to locate the other driver, Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is vital for recovering damages beyond PIP, such as pain and suffering.
Still Unsure About What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident? Contact Us for Legal Guidance
Now that you have a better understanding of what to do after a hit and run accident, it is time to connect with the award-winning personal injury attorneys at Colling Gilbert Wright. We are highly trusted by other law firms, and most of our cases come from colleagues, because they understand we are better able to service these clients.
No matter how complex your hit and run claim is, our entire team has the experience to handle it. Trust us to see your case through to a fair settlement, even if that means we need to go to trial. With our contingency fee structure, you would not receive a bill for our legal services unless we win your case. Call now to schedule a free consultation and get started on your case.
