Getting hit by another driver who takes off without taking responsibility or communicating their information can leave you feeling angered and confused—especially if this is your first time dealing with a car accident.
If you’re injured or your car is damaged, you might wonder, in the situation of a hit-and-run accident, what to do or how to recover.
You may worry about how to cover the costs of repairs or medical bills. Cottrell Law Office is here to help. If you’ve experienced a hit-and-run accident, reach out today to discuss your case and learn about your options.
This guide will explain the steps to take after a hit-and-run accident. Whether you’re dealing with injuries or property damage, knowing what to do can make a big difference in protecting your rights and getting the help you need.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Gather Information
After a hit-and-run accident, the first thing to do is stay calm. Taking a deep breath will help you think more clearly. Even though the other driver has left, there are still things you can do to help your case, such as:
- Check for injuries. Make sure you and any passengers are okay. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away.
- Write down details. If you can, note everything you can remember about the other vehicle (if you can locate your phone, use a notes app for this). Details like the color, make, model, and license plate can be very helpful.
- Take photos. Snap photos of your car, the accident scene, and any damage. These can serve as proof later on.
- Talk to witnesses. If you notice anyone nearby, ask them if they saw the accident, then get their names and contact information. Witnesses can help police find the driver who fled the scene.
Gathering details now will help if you decide to file a police report or insurance claim.
Step 2: Report the Accident Immediately
Reporting the accident is a crucial step. In Missouri and Arkansas, it’s important to notify the authorities as soon as possible. Leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage is illegal, so reporting it will protect your rights. Here are the next steps you should take in a hit-and-run accident to report:
- Call the police. Dial 911 and say you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, and share any details you may have gathered. The police will create an accident report, which you’ll need if you plan to file an insurance claim.
- Inform your insurance company. Contact your insurance provider to report the hit-and-run accident. In hit-and-run incidents, the driver who fled is often never identified, so your insurance policy may cover damages through uninsured motorist coverage.
- Save all documents. Keep copies of the police report, medical records, and repair estimates. These will help support your claim if you need to take legal action.
Taking these steps right away can protect your rights and strengthen your case for future claims.
Step 3: Consider Legal Help
Even with good insurance, handling a hit-and-run accident can still be complicated. The person who caused the accident isn’t there to cover the damages, leaving you to deal with the costs. This is where having an experienced attorney can make a big difference by helping you:
- Protect your rights and assist with compensation. If the other driver fled, you might feel powerless—but you have rights under Missouri and Arkansas law. An attorney can help you navigate the process and help you get the compensation you deserve.
- Handle insurance companies. Insurance companies don’t always want to pay full compensation. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf.
If you were injured or your car was damaged, you may have medical bills or repair costs piling up. If you’re unsure about your next steps, contact Cottrell Law Office—we’ll help you understand your options for pursuing compensation.
What to Do in a Hit-and-Run Accident: Contact Cottrell Law Office
Knowing what steps to take after a hit-and-run accident and what to do is crucial for protecting your rights and ensuring you receive the support you need. Cottrell Law Office is here to guide you through the entire process, from filing reports to negotiating with insurance companies.
We have a proven track record of helping clients in Missouri and Arkansas recover what they’re owed. Don’t hesitate to call us today or contact us online for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Wesley Cottrell
Wes Cottrell earned his B.A. from Pittsburg State University in 1981 and his J.D. from the Washburn University School of Law in Topeka, Kansas in 1985. He was admitted to practice law in Kansas in 1986, in Missouri in 1987, in Arkansas in 1989, and Oklahoma in 1993. He is licensed to practice law in the United States District Court for the District of Kansas, eastern Arkansas, western Arkansas, and western Missouri. He was Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Crawford County, Kansas from 1987-1989.
Rate this Post
Loading...