Car accidents are already traumatic and stressful, but when the person who hits you speeds away without a second thought, things get even worse. A hit and run leaves you shaken, confused, angry, and lost—who can you hold responsible? What can you do to protect your rights and get the compensation you need to put your life back together? Fortunately, we have the answers to these and other pressing questions.
Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident happens when a driver is involved in an accident and then leaves the scene without exchanging information or getting medical help as necessary. That irresponsible choice can create serious challenges for victims left in the lurch.
Hit-and-runs are tragically common, as AAA estimates that there are around three-quarters of a million such collisions annually. Every year, more than 2,000 people die in hit-and-run crashes across the United States.
You might wonder why someone would leave the scene. Sometimes, it’s an attempt to avoid getting caught without a license, driving while intoxicated, or not having insurance. But no matter the cause, it doesn’t change your reality: you’re left with property damage, potential injuries, and plenty of questions.
Immediate Actions to Take After a Hit-and-Run
It’s completely natural to feel rattled and furious after a hit-and-run. Stay calm and take the following steps to protect your safety and strengthen your case.
Assess the Situation and Stay Safe
Your first instinct might be to chase the other driver down, but that can put you in danger. Instead, take a deep breath and check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Look around to make sure you’re not in the path of oncoming traffic or other hazards. Move to a safer spot, if possible, to prevent further harm.
Contact Emergency Services and Police
Call 911 to report the accident and summon emergency responders. Even if you feel fine, a medical checkup is smart since some injuries appear later. By reporting the hit-and-run to the police, you create an official record and investigation of the incident.
Collect and Document Important Information
Gather as much information as you can about the other vehicle and the scene. Even small details can help with your case. Take photos, write down key facts, and collect witness information.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Details about the other car: Color, make, model, license plate (even partial), and any unique features like stickers or dents
- Info about the scene: Location, date, time, weather, and road conditions
- Your vehicle damage: Photos from different angles and notes on how your car was hit
- Witnesses: Names and contact details of anyone who saw what happened
Gathering clear evidence now can help confirm the facts, support your claim, and improve the chances of a successful outcome with insurance or legal action.
Reporting and Legal Considerations
Taking the right legal steps after a hit-and-run can protect your rights and improve your chances of recovering damages. Two of the most critical are reporting the accident and learning your legal options.
How to File a Police Report
After a hit-and-run, officers will gather details, take photos, and speak with witnesses. If police can’t respond right away, visit the nearest station to file a report. The process usually includes:
- Providing your information: Give them your driver’s license, registration, and insurance details.
- Describing what happened: Share all the info you can about the crash.
- Submitting evidence: Give them any photos, witness statements, or anything that helps identify the other driver.
Keep a copy of the report—it proves the accident happened and that the other driver fled. If you need a copy later, you can request one from the police department that handled your case, either online, in person, or by mail.
Timeframe for Reporting the Incident
States generally have laws that set a timeline for reporting an accident. For example, North Carolina requires a driver involved in an accident involving injury, death, or at least $1,000 in property damage to report the accident to police “immediately [and] by the quickest means of communication.” Furthermore, your insurance policy likely requires you to alert your insurer to the accident within a few days. Check its language for details.
In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing lawsuits is three years for personal injury and two years for wrongful death. Waiting too long to report the accident can weaken your case and limit your options for recovering damages.
A lawyer can help you meet deadlines and handle all filing requirements. They can file your uninsured motorist claims, gather evidence from traffic cameras or witnesses, and work with law enforcement to identify the driver.
Legal Obligations and Rights as a Victim
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, you still have legal options. You may be able to seek compensation through your insurance, especially if you have uninsured motorist coverage, or take legal action if the driver is found.
Many hit-and-run drivers flee because they don’t want to be caught breaking the law. If they’re eventually identified, they can face criminal charges, which may impact your civil claim. A hit-and-run lawyer can help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Ted A. Greve & Associates
At Ted A. Greve & Associates, our priority is guiding you through the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident. We want you to have the peace of mind that someone is in your corner. We offer:
- Free consultations: We take the time to hear your story, answer your questions, and explain your options.
- Clear communication: You’ll always know what’s happening with your case and what you can expect next.
- Thorough investigations: We interview witnesses, gather evidence, and work with experts to help identify the driver.
- Aggressive negotiation: If the insurance company offers less than you deserve, we push for a fair outcome.
- Representation in court: We will present your case at trial if doing so is the best way to get you the full amount you’re owed.
A hit-and-run accident brings enough stress—don’t add to it by trying to pursue the legal process on your own. Let us handle the tough parts so you can move forward with the support you need. Contact us today, and let’s get started with your free consultation.
