Learn what you should do if you are the victim of a hit-and-run.
An accident is deemed a hit-and-run any time an involved driver leaves the scene of the accident. Unfortunately, these types of accidents can happen so quickly that you may not have a chance to respond. This is why it’s important to know what to do if faced with a hit-and-run. Here’s how you should handle the situation.
- Don’t Chase the Driver Down
While it might be tempting to chase after the driver, it’s simply not safe. Chasing after another driver will likely result in unsafe driving behaviors, placing yourself and other innocent parties at risk. Additionally, the driver you are pursuing might be dangerous. Instead, if you get into a hit-and-run, you should safely pull off the road and check the wellness of your passengers.
- Contact the Police
Even if you don’t feel that you have anything to report, it’s important to call the police. Having a police report on record will help your insurance claims process go more smoothly. When the police arrive at the scene, explain what happened but leave the authorities to handle things from there. Do your best to let the officer assess the situation without interfering, assigning blame, or admitting fault.
- Try to Remember the Details
After an accident, you will likely feel scattered and flustered. However, do your best to calm down and try to remember as many details of the accident as possible. For instance, try to remember the color of the car, the state on the license plate, and details regarding the other driver’s appearance. If you have a passenger, ask what they remember as well. While the details might seem fuzzy and minor, even the smallest details can help your case.
These are some of the things you need to remember after getting into a hit-and-run accident. While there’s isn’t a lot you can do to prevent from becoming a victim of a hit-and-run, having the right auto insurance can help you protect from any damages or injuries you might suffer as a result. To find the right auto insurance to address your risks, contact us at Pierce Insurance Group. We are ready to assist you with all your coverage needs today.