What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident
November 23rd, 2019Within the State of Louisiana, hit and run accidents are widespread and common. Each year, more than 22,000 accidents in Louisiana are hit and run accidents causing property damage, injuries, and fatalities. If you were involved in a hit and run accident, you experience all of the suffering and stress of a typical car accident, compounded by a profound sense of injustice that you may not have a driver from whom to receive compensation. Before making any decisions, here is what to do after a hit and run accident.
Seek Safety and Call the Police
If you were in an accident, you may be disoriented and unsure of your next steps. Make sure to move the car from the roadway if leaving it cause be a hazard to you or other drivers. Turn your hazard lights on and wait for the police to arrive. If you are injured, you should always stay in your car until medical professionals can assess your injuries. However, if you are not injured, leave the car in the roadway, if necessary, and get to safety on the side of the road, away from oncoming traffic. Never leave the scene of your accident. Your safety is paramount. Call 911 as soon as possible or have someone call on your behalf.
Record Information
Record all important information and documentation that you can remember about the vehicle that left the scene of the accident. Any identifying information may help law enforcement find the other driver’s vehicle. Also, collect all contact information, including phone numbers, from witnesses of the accident.
Seek Medical Attention
If you were injured in a hit and run accident, seek medical attention as soon as possible. You may not feel you were injured in any way; however, it is important to realize that some very serious and severe injuries fail to present themselves immediately. If not treated immediately, traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, and internal injuries can be life-threatening.
Create a Hit and Run Accident File
Create a file that has all the information pertaining to your hit and run accident. All police reports, medical bills, medical tests and diagnosis, therapy, lost work, lost wages, and even a journal describing your pain and suffering. Consider including additional information, such as you needed to hire a house cleaner or assistant because you are unable to complete everyday tasks due to your injuries.
Contact the Insurance Company
You should contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the hit and run accident, to let them know that you will be filing a claim. Make sure to never allow an insurance company to record your conversation and be cautious with your words. Insurance companies can use your words against you to limit your compensation.
Inquire With An Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Hit and run accidents have unique, complex legal issues that typical car accidents do not have. We can help you understand your rights, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and help you recover the compensation you deserve. For a complimentary consultation of your case, contact the experienced car accident attorneys at The Bowling Law Firm at 504-586-5200 or online today.