Getting into a car accident is stressful enough, but it can be even more frustrating when the other driver flees the scene, leaving you to deal with the damages. Hit and runs are illegal, but that doesn’t stop some drivers from taking off if they are intoxicated, uninsured, or driving without a license.
As with other car accidents, there are a few things you can do after a hit and run to help with your insurance claim and help you recover the compensation you need for your medical bills and vehicle repairs.
Keep Track of Evidence at the Scene
If the hit and run happened in a public place, ask around at local businesses or homes to find out if the accident was caught on a security camera. If any witnesses saw what happened and got a better look at the other driver and their car, ask for their account and get their contact information. Take photos and videos of your vehicle to document the accident scene.
You may have only briefly seen the driver or their vehicle, but you should write down every detail you can remember — any information could help track down the at-fault driver.
Report the Accident to the Police
Even if the other driver is long gone, you should report the hit and run to the police. The sooner the police respond and make a report, the better the chance of finding the at-fault driver, and the sooner you can file a claim to obtain payment for your damages. Once the report is complete, you can request a copy from the appropriate station to give to your attorney.
Document Your Injuries
If you’re injured in the accident, seek medical attention and ask for copies of your medical records. Adhere to your doctor’s recommendations and attend regular follow-up medical appointments after the accident, maintaining itemized receipts for all treatment you receive.
Also, keep a journal of how your injuries and pain affect your daily life. Doing so will help prove the extent of your injuries and maximize the value of your accident claim.
File Your Insurance Claim
If you or the police can locate the at-fault driver, you may be able to file a claim with their insurance. But if the driver was uninsured or can’t be found, you have other options to recover compensation for your injuries and damages.
Types of Insurance for Your Hit & Run Claim
A hit and run can be covered under uninsured motorist insurance. Uninsured motorist coverage is optional in Nevada, but carrying it offers protection if you’re the victim of a hit and run and will pay for your medical bills.
Collision coverage is another optional insurance that can be helpful in a hit and run accident. Collision insurance will pay for your vehicle repairs regardless of who is at fault.
Let a Las Vegas Hit & Run Lawyer Handle the Claims Process
Don’t speak with your insurance company without first talking to a car accident attorney. Even though you might be working with your own insurance company, their goal is to minimize the payout.
Let your attorney take care of the evidence, file the claim, and negotiate on your behalf to give you the best chance of recovering compensation for all your damages.
Call Today for Help with a Hit & Run
Hit and runs can happen in seconds but leave lasting damages and injuries. Evidence and memories are lost the more time passes after an accident, so it’s essential to get in touch with a lawyer right away.
Oronoz & Ericsson Injury Lawyers can help you manage your claim. We will do whatever we can to help recover compensation for your damages, whether it’s finding the at-fault driver and pursuing a personal injury lawsuit or filing a claim with your insurance.
Call us at 702-878-2889 or use our online contact form to reach out.