How to Handle a Hit-and-Run Accident

07 Jun How to Handle a Hit-and-Run Accident

What to do after a hit-and-run accident.

A car accident can be a very traumatic and stressful event in your life. To make matter worse, the car that hit you is now speeding off and fleeing from the scene. Being a victim of a hit-and-run is no picnic, but there are things you can do to help your situation. Here’s how to handle a hit-and-run accident.

Record the most important information.

If the driver that struck your car drives off, gather as much information as you can relay to the police. This information can help to locate the other driver and ensure you don’t get stuck paying for damages and expenses. Try to write down:

• Their license plate number (even a partial number can help the police)
• Take down the make and model of the car
• What color the car is
• Approximate year of the car
• Time and location of the accident
• The direction the driver was headed
• Contact information of potential witnesses
• Pictures of the scene and damage to your car

Report the incident to police.

Call the police as soon as possible, even if you and your passengers suffered no injuries. Give them the following information:

• The exact location of the accident
• The direction the driver was headed
• The names of possible witnesses

Call your insurance company.

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process. If the police cannot locate the driver that hit you, your underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage can step in to help cover expenses.

At Dougherty Insurance, we help motorists stay safe on the roads with reliable car coverage. Contact us today for unparalleled auto insurance in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana.