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Being involved in a car accident is always daunting. Afterwards, you will likely feel stressed, confused, and angry. If the driver who hit you has fled the scene, it is even more devastating. You may not know what to do in a hit-and-run accident. While you may be able to obtain compensation for your medical expenses and other losses, the steps you take immediately following the crash can either help or hurt your case. Below, our Charleston hit and run accident lawyer explains the most important steps to take.
Make Observations of the Scene
When the police visit the scene, it is helpful if you can give them as much information as possible. As soon as you are able to, look around and take note of any observations you make, including:
- The color, make, and model of the vehicle that hit you
- Any distinguishing characteristics of the vehicle that hit you, such as a dented door or bumper stickers
- Any descriptive details about the driver, such as their gender, approximate age, race, and facial features
- If there were any other occupants in the vehicle
- The state on the license plate and any letters or numbers on it you can see
- The direction the driver fled in
Also, take note of anyone else who is present at the accident scene, where the crash occurred, the time of day, and the location.
Stay Safe
Hit-and-run accidents are dangerous in a number of ways. You may be in the middle of traffic, and the damage caused by the accident may create electrical hazards or start a fire. Additionally, the fleeing driver may be panicked or angry. Do not try to chase the driver as they flee. Your safety is of the utmost priority. Remain at the scene to avoid further injury.
Call 911
A hit-and-run accident is an emergency, and so it is important that you call the police. In South Carolina, you are legally required to report any crash that results in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
Additionally, the sooner police know about the crash, the better chance there is of them catching the fleeing driver. After calling 911, local law enforcement will be notified, and they can start looking for the other driver.
They will also speak to witnesses and ensure evidence is preserved. The police will also write and file an accident report, which you will need for the insurance company. Lastly, calling 911 will also call emergency responders to the scene, which is important if you are injured.
Seek Medical Attention
Regardless of what happens after a hit-and-run, the most important thing to do is to seek medical attention. If emergency responders arrive at the scene, let them check you over for injuries. If they do not examine you, visit a doctor or emergency room immediately after leaving the scene. This will ensure you receive the treatment you need for your injuries while also documenting the severity of harm. This documentation can help when pursuing compensation.
Collect Evidence
Some of the best evidence after a hit-and-run accident is at the scene. If possible, take pictures of the accident scene, including any property damage, your injuries, and other relevant details, such as a stop sign that the fleeing driver ran. Also, check nearby businesses to determine if there are video cameras that may have captured the crash. You can also ask other drivers who may have seen the accident if they have dash cam footage. Lastly, keep any property that was damaged, such as your clothing or your phone.
Locate Witnesses
Also, while still at the scene, it is important to locate witnesses and ask them for their names and contact information. Even if bystanders did not see the actual accident, they may have seen other important details, such as a description of the driver who fled the scene.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Auto insurance in South Carolina is a traditional fault system. This means after a crash, you must file a claim with the negligent driver’s insurance company. However, this is clearly not possible when the at-fault driver fled the driver left the scene. The only recourse you will have is to notify your own insurer. When speaking to them, do not apologize for the crash or admit fault in any way. Simply tell them that you were hurt in an accident. Do not provide further details until you have more documentation, such as your medical records.
All motorists in South Carolina are also required to purchase uninsured motorist coverage. After a hit-and-run accident, the fleeing driver will be treated like an uninsured driver, and so, your own insurance company can provide some compensation. The minimum amounts of uninsured motorist coverage required include $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage.
File a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver
While most fleeing drivers are not found, if the police do locate the driver who hit you, it may be possible to file a claim with their insurance company. However, it is important to note that the fleeing driver may not have adequate insurance coverage. In fact, this may be the reason they fled in the first place. If the driver is found and they do have auto insurance, you can file a claim against them. If the driver is not found, you may have to rely on uninsured motorist coverage, as detailed above.
Call Our Hit and Run Accident Lawyer in Charleston
It is understandable if you are unsure of what to do in a hit-and-run accident. One of the most important steps to take is to contact a Charleston hit-and-run accident lawyer. At Trey Harrell, our experienced attorney can ensure that the proper steps are followed, guide you through the process, and ensure that you obtain the maximum damages you are entitled to. Call us now at 843-636-TREY or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation and to get the legal advice you need. Remember, Trey Helps!