According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), hit-and-run accidents are on the rise in the United States, causing serious injuries and fatalities to innocent victims. In the event that you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, it can be a confusing and scary experience. But it is important to remember that there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your legal rights. We will provide you with a detailed overview of what to do if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident.
Immediately After a Hit-and-Run
The first and most important thing to do if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident is to stay calm and assess your injuries and the damages to your vehicle. If you are seriously injured, call 9-1-1 immediately and wait for emergency services to arrive.
If you see the hit-and-run, try to remember any details about the vehicle and driver, such as the make and model of the car, the license plate number, and the driver's physical description. This information can be crucial in identifying and locating the driver later on.
Contact the Police
If you have not already, call the police to report the accident and provide them with all of the information you have gathered about the other driver and their vehicle. The police will investigate the incident and try to locate the driver. If they are unsuccessful, you should file a report with the police to document the accident and your injuries. This report can be an important piece of evidence if you pursue legal action against the hit-and-run driver.
Contact Your Insurance Company
After reporting the accident to the police, you should contact your insurance company to report the incident and file a claim. Even if the other driver is never identified and located, you may still be able to receive compensation for your injuries and damages under your uninsured motorist coverage. It is important to provide your insurance company with all of the information you have gathered about the accident and the other driver to help them in their investigation.
Pursuing Justice for a Hit-and-Run in Louisiana
Under Louisiana law, hit-and-run accidents are treated as serious criminal offenses, and drivers who flee the scene of an accident can face harsh penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. If you have been a victim of a hit-and-run accident, it is important to hire an experienced personal injury attorney to help you pursue your legal rights. Your attorney can help you with every aspect of your case, from investigating the accident to negotiating with your insurance company and representing you in court if necessary.
If you or a loved one have been the victim of a hit-and-run, contact us online or call us at (225) 230-3110 to schedule an appointment with our experienced car accident attorneys in Baton Rouge today.