No one wants to think about the possibility of being in a car accident. Even worse, however, is the idea of being involved in a hit-and-run car accident. This is where the other driver flees the scene of the accident before being identified. It jeopardizes the victim’s chances of compensation.
If you are in a hit-and-run collision, there are a few things you can do immediately following the accident, as well as in the days and weeks after the collision. Here’s what you need to know:
Immediately Write Down as Much as You Can Remember
The first thing that you should do immediately after the collision occurs is write down as much as you can remember about the driver or the vehicle that hit you. That includes vehicle make, model, color, and license plate number if possible. Look around – were there any witnesses to the accident? If so, collaborate with them to collect as much information about the hit-and-run driver as you can.
Report the Accident to the Police
As soon as you can (i.e. seconds or minutes after the crash occurs) you should contact the police and give them a detailed description of what happened and the fact that the hit-and-run driver left the scene and is on the loose. Hopefully, police will be able to track down the driver quickly as a result of your fast action.
Gather Other Sources of Evidence
If the driver is not located within a day or two, it is time to turn to all other sources of evidence that may exist. That may include video evidence from nearby stores or businesses, witnesses’ testimonies, or pieces of debris left over from the crash that could have come from the hit-and-run driver’s car.
Get Medical Care
You may be overwhelmed by the fact that the driver who hit you cannot be located. You also may be worried about how you will pay for expenses incurred. However, you should not refrain from seeking medical care if you need it. This should be a top priority of yours.
File a Claim with Your Own Insurance
Colorado is an at-fault car insurance state, which means that drivers are required to pay for the accidents they cause. If an at-fault driver cannot be located, you may be able to turn to your own insurance company for compensation. This is true if you have medical benefits coverage (which will pay for medical expenses in a crash regardless of fault), uninsured motorist coverage, or collision coverage. Review your policy to determine what your insurance company may be obligated to pay.
Hire an Experienced Attorney
Depending upon the severity of injuries you have suffered in your hit-and-run accident, as well as the types of insurance available to you, working with an experienced Colorado car accident lawyer may be a smart idea. Your attorney can help you to gather evidence to track down the missing driver. They’ll help you explore potential sources of compensation, and negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement amount.
At the law offices of Bloch & Chapleau, LLC, our lawyers know how to improve your chances of getting compensated for your injuries, even when the at-fault driver cannot be located. To learn more, or to request a free consultation, contact us today.
