Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming and frightening, especially if you don’t know the right steps to take after the incident occurs. But knowing what to do after is essential to ensure your safety, as well as the safety of any passengers or pedestrians involved in the accident. Here’s an overview of how to handle a hit-and-run accident!
Make Sure Everyone is Okay
One of the first steps after a hit-and-run accident is to check on the safety of all involved. Make sure that you, any passengers, and/or pedestrians who were nearby are all safe and unharmed. It’s important to keep calm and assess your surroundings before doing anything else. If anyone is injured, call 911.
Contact Law Enforcement Immediately
If you have been the victim of a hit and run, it’s important to contact law enforcement right away. Notifying law enforcement allows them to search for the driver responsible for the accident. Try to provide police with as much information about the other vehicle as possible, including make and model, color, license plate number, etc. This information will help authorities track down the perpetrator of the crime.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
In addition to contacting law enforcement, if it is safe to do so, try gathering evidence from the scene, such as photos of any damage done to your vehicle or surrounding property, eyewitness accounts from people who may have seen something, etc. This evidence will be invaluable when it comes time to file an insurance claim or go through legal proceedings against the driver responsible for causing damage during the hit-and-run.
File Your Claim with Your Insurance Company
Filing an insurance claim should be one of your top priorities following a hit-and-run incident. Contact your insurance company immediately so they can begin assessing damages done by the other driver during your incident. If you are an Ag Workers policyholder, you can report a new claim by calling our 24-hour claims reporting service at (508) 365-2692. They will be able to help guide you through the claims process and answer any questions you may have.
Depending on your insurance coverage or lack thereof, your policy may only cover some repair and medical costs. Speak to your insurance provider about your coverages, such as uninsured motorist coverage, to ensure you are protected in the event of a hit-and-run.
Final Thoughts
After being involved in a hit-and-run accident, you must take certain steps immediately following your incident—not only for yourself but also for anyone else who may have been injured or affected by this traumatic event. Notify law enforcement immediately; gather evidence from witnesses; document damage done; contact your insurance company; and remain patient throughout this process as best you can. Taking these steps will help ensure that the process will go a lot smoother—so don’t forget them!