Knowing what to do in Hit and Run accidents

Imagine you were riding along on your bicycle or motorcycle or you were about to make a cross on the street. Then suddenly a hasty driver came out of nowhere and forces you to hit a tree or hit you right in the middle of the road causing you serious injuries. Unbelievably, the driver just took off and leaves you in the scene. As a victim, you are probably wondering if you have the right to sue for injuries if you are run off the road. Well generally, when you are involved in an accident you are required to stop, render aid and provide the necessary information. If you fail to stop and the accident became a hit and run case, you may face serious consequences ranging from fines to imprisonment.

In most instances, first time offenders of hit and run accidents will be required to pay the victim for damages done to the car either through his insurance company or in fines assessed by the authorities. But in cases when the hit and run caused injuries to another person, the punishment is usually more severe and the driver may face fines, revocation of driver’s license and/or insurance policy and DMV points. However, when the hit and run caused the death of the victim, the accident is considered as a felony by law. At this point, before giving any information to the investigating officer it is best to consult a lawyer who will be able to assist you with the steps to follow.

If you are involved in a hit and run accident, there are guidelines you need to follow and remember.

First, as much as possible try to identify the negligent vehicle, driver and/or its operator. As failure to do this may lead to a denied insurance benefit, do your best to memorize and write down the description of the vehicle and the driver if you saw him.

Second, report the accident immediately to the police. Failure to do so may affect the decision regarding your reasonable effort at identifying the driver and owner.

Third, immediately report the incident to your insurance company. Mostly in cases involving a hit and run vehicle the insurance company is suspicious of the events surrounding your claim, hence, they will always want to make an investigation. For this reason, it is imperative to consult a lawyer before giving any information or written statement to any investigator.

Most importantly, consider speaking with an attorney who may be able to help you with your claim, assess the extent of your damage and protect your legal rights.