It’s no secret that being involved in an accident can be incredibly stressful and overwhelming. However, matters can be made even more upsetting when you are the victim of a hit-and-run. Unfortunately, many in these unfortunate circumstances are unsure of their options, so it’s in your best interest to keep reading, as this blog explores what you should do after an accident in which the driver flees the scene and how a Monroe, Louisiana car accident lawyer can assist you during these complicated issues.
What Should I Do Following a Hit-and-Run?
For many, being involved in a hit-and-run is an incredibly jarring and upsetting event, and knowing what to do can be complicated. If this happens to you, your first instinct may be to pursue the driver of the other vehicle to obtain their information. However, this is not recommended.
During the collision, you may have sustained injuries that make operating a vehicle unsafe. As such, pursuing the diver can lead to subsequent accidents, endangering you and others on the road. Additionally, the other driver may be erratic and could be fleeing the scene for several reasons. If you pursue them, it could create a dangerous situation for yourself and other drivers on the road.
Instead, if you are involved in a hit-and-run, the best thing you can do is pull your vehicle over to a safe location and call the police. Give the operator as much detail as possible about the vehicle, including the make, model, color, distinguishing features, and license plate information if you were able to obtain it. While you wait for the police to arrive, you can speak with witnesses who may have seen the accident and can provide additional insight to help locate the driver.
Can an Attorney Help Me Recover Compensation?
A hit-and-run can be devastating as you may feel like the responsible driver will never be located, leaving you in limbo. If this occurs, it’s important to remain calm and understand your legal options.
You can begin by filing a claim through your own car insurance to help cover the cost of repairs and medical expenses in the days and weeks following the accident. However, this may not be possible if you do not have comprehensive coverage, as you can recover compensation without uninsured motorist coverage.
If the police can locate the negligent driver, you can file a claim through their insurance to hold them liable for the damages they have caused. In addition, your attorney can help ensure you are treated fairly by the insurance company so they don’t try to reduce the value of your claim.
When you’re hurt due to the negligent actions of another person, our firm can help. At Breithaupt, DuBos, & Wolleson, LLC, we understand how complicated these issues can be, which is why we will do everything in our power to guide you through these matters. Connect with us today to discuss your circumstances to learn how we can fight for you during these difficult legal matters.
