A hit-and-run is, arguably, one of the most devastating types of car accidents. Not only are you shaken up by the incident, but now you have to deal with the aftermath of everything: having your car fixed, getting your injuries tended to and filling in the gaps that were created when the other party fled the scene. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, here is what you need to know and how a Winston-Salem personal injury attorney can help you fight for compensation.
First Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run
Just like any other accident, a hit-and-run can be traumatic, but try and remember as much as you can about the other driver’s car before they fled the scene. Anything from the other car’s license plate number to the make and model of the vehicle is information that could be vital to you in the future. Also take mental note of the scene of the accident, and how the accident occurred, if you can.
After you’ve called the authorities and addressed any injuries that may have been sustained by either you or your passengers, write down anything you can remember. Use your smartphone to take clear pictures of the scene of the accident and any damages that were caused by the opposing party. If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask them if they would be willing to give the police an official statement. Essentially, try and gather as much information from the scene as possible, to help prove your claim and build your case, if need be.
Avoid Getting Stuck with the Bill
Your biggest concern after a hit-and-run is likely with who will be paying for the damages. Luckily, there are a few steps you can take to protect yourself. Before a hit-and-run takes place, consider investing in uninsured motorist coverage. Depending on the state you live in and your insurance provider, the coverage will vary, but typically, such insurance will protect you in the event you are involved in an accident where the at-fault driver can’t provide their own liability coverage.
If you’ve already suffered a hit-and-run and didn’t have uninsured motorist coverage prior to the accident, you still have options. Sometimes, an insurance company will waive your deductible if you file a hit-and-run claim, but these occasions are rare. To ensure your best case scenario in these situations, consider hiring a personal injury attorney in Winston-Salem to help you build your case.
Do Not Flee the Scene
If you find that you are the at-fault driver of an accident – don’t drive off. The consequences for doing so can be quite severe, from heavy fines to even time spent in prison. Even if damages from the accident seem minimal, stop and go through the proper course of action; morally and legally, it’s the right thing to do.
How a Winston-Salem Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident in the Winston-Salem area, consider hiring a professional and experienced car accident attorney to defend your case. You shouldn’t have to pay for damages caused by another. Contact our lawyers at Lewis & Keller today to find out how we can help you.
