Being involved in a car accident is stressful under any circumstances. But when the other driver flees the scene leaving you injured, confused, and without answers, it adds another layer of fear and uncertainty.
If you’ve experienced a hit-and-run accident, you may be asking:
- What now?
- Am I on my own?
- Who will pay for the damage to my vehicle and for my injuries?
- What if the driver is never found?
Here’s what you need to know about protecting your health, your legal rights, and your ability to recover compensation after a hit-and-run accident.
The good news is that many car accident victims are still able to recover compensation even if the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Correia & Collins has over 40 years of experience dealing with these types of car accidents.
1. Prioritize Your Safety
Your first concern should always be your safety and the safety of anyone else involved.
- Move your vehicle out of traffic if possible.
- Check yourself and your passengers for injuries.
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
Even if you don’t feel injured right away, it’s a good idea to get checked by medical professionals. Many injuries, including whiplash and concussions, may not be immediately apparent.
2. Do Not Chase the Other Driver
It’s a natural reaction to want to follow or confront someone who just hit your vehicle and fled. But chasing the driver can put you and others at risk and may complicate the legal process.
Leave the investigation to the police. Your role is to stay safe, gather information, and cooperate with law enforcement.
3. Document the Scene
Even if the other driver is gone, your observations can make a huge difference.
Try to gather as much information as possible while it’s still fresh in your mind:
- The make, model, and color of the other vehicle
- Any part of the license plate you recall
- The direction the other vehicle fled
- Time and location of the crash
- Photos of the damage to your vehicle
- Photos of the scene, surrounding area, and any visible injuries
- Names and contact information of any witnesses
The more details you can provide, the better the chances of locating the driver or building a strong insurance claim.
4. File a Police Report
In a hit-and-run situation, filing a police report is not just a formality, it’s essential.
The police report will:
- Officially document the crash
- Initiate an investigation into the hit-and-run
- Support your insurance claim
- Provide a record in case you pursue legal action
Be honest and detailed with the officer but avoid making assumptions about the other driver’s intent or the cause of the crash.
5. Notify your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident.
6. Speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer
Even if the other driver is never found, you may still be entitled to compensation through your own insurance or other sources that a personal injury lawyer can help you access.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help:
- Navigate the claims process
- Deal with insurance companies on your behalf
- Protect your rights and avoid common pitfalls
- Pursue full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
Correia & Collins offer free consultations and work on a contingency basis, meaning there’s no cost unless they recover compensation for you.
A hit-and-run crash can leave you feeling powerless. But you still have options—and rights.
If you’ve been injured by a driver who fled the scene, don’t assume there’s nothing you can do. The right legal support can help you understand your options, protect your interests, and take the next steps toward recovery.
If you have questions or need guidance, we’re here to help.
Talk Directly to an Experienced Injury Lawyer, Today.
It was while working with Tim and Chris as a university student that I first caught the Law bug. Witnessing their enthusiasm and their commitment to clients inspired me to pursue a career helping others. Representing my clients and obtaining the best results for them is my focus. Other than being a husband and father, nothing is more fulfilling to me.