More than one hit-and-run accident occurs on US roads every minute. That's about 682,000 hit-and-run crashes in a single year.
In the span of a single year, nearly 2,050 people died as a result of these accidents.
If you were recently in a hit-and-run car accident in Georgia, don't wait to call for help. Here are six steps you should follow after a crash. Following these steps will help you fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve.
You can file a car accident claim and receive the funds you need to cover your losses.
Otherwise, you might have to pay for property damages, medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses alone. Don't let that happen! Instead, learn how to build your car accident claim by following these steps after a crash.
1. Move to Safety
First, take a deep breath and try to get your bearings. You'll likely feel overwhelmed and confused immediately following a hit-and-run car accident. Feelings of anger, fear, and anxiety are common responses as well.
However, letting anger control your actions could impact your ability to build your car accident claim. You might make a costly mistake or skip an essential step in this process. Instead, try to take a breath and remain calm.
Look around. Who else was involved in the crash? Before they leave, try to gather as much information as possible.
One of the most valuable pieces of information you can gather is the license plate number. If you can't catch sight of the license plate, consider the vehicle. Note the make, model, and color.
If the car leaves before you can gather this information, that's okay. Focus on completing the rest of these steps.
First, make sure not to leave the scene of the crash. Instead, try to move to a safe, nearby area. Get away from the flow of traffic as soon as possible.
Otherwise, remaining in the path of traffic could lead to another accident.
Don't rush after the other driver. Instead, focus on gathering the information you need to file your car accident claim. Wait until you get permission from law enforcement before leaving the scene of the crash.
2. Call Law Enforcement
Make sure to call the police to the scene of your hit-and-run car accident as soon as possible. In many states, car accident laws indicate you're obligated to contact authorities. You'll also need an official police report when filing your car accident claim.
When the officer arrives, make sure to write down their name and badge number. Your Georgia auto accident lawyer will need this information to build your case.
Walk the officer through what happened. Don't embellish. Instead, stick to the facts.
If you have any information about who the driver was or about their vehicle, let the officer know.
Before they leave, ask them for a copy of the police report.
3. Take Notes
It might take a few minutes before police arrive at the scene of the hit-and-run auto accident. Take advantage of that time by gathering your own information.
First, assess the damages to your vehicle. You'll need this information to calculate the full extent of our losses. Otherwise, you might unknowingly leave money on the table.
Walk around the vehicle and take photos of the car from different angles. Take photos of any dents, scratches, or other visible damages.
Take photos of the area around you, too. For example, you might want to take note of the weather and any nearby structures. Note where the accident occurred by writing down the crossroads, too.
It's normal to forget small details after a hit-and-run accident. To avoid forgetting everything, write down your recollection of what happened. Try to include:
- Where you were headed
- Where the accident occurred
- The make, model, and color of the other car
- Gender or physical qualities of the other driver
- The car's license plate number
Even a partial plate could help the officer identify the driver.
Look around the scene of the crash, too. Did anyone witness the hit-and-run auto accident? Ask if they're comfortable speaking with you about what happened.
Their recollection could help build your car accident claim. Ask if they're comfortable speaking with the police officer. Try to get their contact information for your lawyer, too.
Look around for any security cameras as well. Your lawyer can request the footage to further build your case.
4. Seek Medical Attention
About three million Americans are injured in car accidents each year. About two million drivers sustain permanent injuries. After you're clear to leave the crash, visit a doctor.
A doctor can assess your health and wellbeing. They'll determine if the crash caused any injuries. Otherwise, you might not recognize the extent of your injuries until later.
Some people experience internal bleeding or musculoskeletal issues, but don't notice symptoms until days after. Adrenaline could mask your symptoms, too.
Keep a record of any symptoms you experience. Write down the contact information of each physician and specialist you visit. Record their treatments, medications, and diagnosis, too.
Your hit-and-run car accident lawyer can use this information to build your case.
5. Call a Lawyer
Make sure to call an auto accident lawyer immediately following the crash. Find a personal injury lawyer who specializes in car crash cases in Georgia. Look for someone with years of experience handling hit-and-run cases, too.
Their prior experience will help build your lawsuit. They can also help you navigate claims with the insurance company.
Make sure to call your insurance company to file an insurance claim, too.
6. File a Lawsuit
Your hit-and-run car accident lawyer can walk you through the process of filing a lawsuit. With their help, you can fight for compensation to cover your losses.
Don't wait too long to call for help. Otherwise, the statute of limitations could lapse. You might miss your chance to file your lawsuit as a result.
Seek Compensation: 6 Steps to Follow After a Hit-and-Run in Georgia
If you're ever in a hit-and-run accident, take a breath. Try to remember these six simple steps. Following these steps will help you file your car accident claim.
With help from an experienced Georgia lawyer, you can get the compensation you need to cover your losses.
Want to discuss your case with an experienced auto accident lawyer? We're here to help.
Contact our team today for your free case evaluation.