What should I do after a hit and run accident?

If you are wondering what exactly is a hit-and-run, it is simply a collision during which a driver does not stop, but rather leaves the scene of the accident and does not wait for the authorities. If you are involved in such an accident, you have likely discovered that recovering damages for your injuries is more difficult than it would be if the other driver had done the honest thing and waited for local law enforcement to complete a police report. If you are the victim of a hit-and-run, follow the steps outlined below to ensure the best personal outcome for yourself, as well as a successful outcome for any future litigation:

Contact the police and request that a formal report is filed. This will ensure that law enforcement begins investigating the incident.
If possible, immediately get contact information and the names of any people who witnessed the accident.
Pursue medical attention at once, even if you feel your injuries are minor.
Contact one of our qualified personal injury attorneys at Briggle and Polan, PLLC.

Determining Who is at Fault

If you are able to locate and identify the hit-and-run driver following the accident, or if the investigation completed by the local police leads them to the responsible party, it is vital that you speak to a personal injury lawyer without delay. This is especially true if the accident resulted in serious injuries.

Determining Who is Liable

Following a car crash that resulted in personal injury, unharmed motorists typically have a legal duty to take the appropriate steps to assist those who were injured. For example, they must report the accident to the police and if possible, call 911 for medical assistance for the injured party.

Drivers who fail to complete these duties following an accident may receive traffic citations. Additionally, serious criminal charges are filed if a motorist leaves the scene of an accident, particularly if it caused injury or death to another party.

If law enforcement is unable to identify and find the hit and run driver, you may be able to collect damages from your insurance company if you have something called “uninsured motorist” coverage. You should call your insurance representative without delay to find out if this is the case.

Contact Austin Attorneys Briggle & Polan

If you were the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Austin, Texas, and have suffered injuries as a result, your first course of action should be to seek professional attention to begin your mental and physical recovery, even if the guilty party cannot be found.

In addition, you should not have to spend your time continuously worrying about your legal case. The professionals at Briggle & Polan, PLLC are willing to do whatever necessary to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries, and our lawyers take pride in handling clients as if they are family. Do not hesitate to reach for your telephone and contact us about your hit-and-run automobile accident. No upfront money is required, and your consultation is on the house. Until we win your case, you pay nothing. Contact us today for a free consultation at (512) 400-3278.