What to Do When You are Hurt in a Hit-and-Run Accident

It is a serious crime to flee the scene of an accident in Illinois. If you were injured in the crash though, knowing the hit-and-run driver could face criminal consequences is of little reassurance. The aftermath of any car accident is scary, but hit-and-run accidents are particularly traumatic and distressing. While you are suffering from serious injuries, lost income, high medical bills, and other losses, you may also not know how to claim financial compensation for those damages. Below, our Illinois car accident lawyer explains what to do after a hit-and-run accident, and how to claim the damages you deserve.

Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

It is easy to become emotional after a hit-and-run accident, but it is important to remain calm. The steps you take now can either hurt or help your claim, so it is important that you take the right ones. The most important steps to take after this type of crash are as follows:

• Gather as much information from the driver or vehicle that hit you as possible. Take note of the make and model of the vehicle, a description of the car, and any license plate information, even if it is only partial.
• Take photographs and videos of the accident scene.
• Report the accident to the police and remain at the scene until they arrive.
• Locate witnesses and ask for their name and contact information so they can provide a statement later.
• Seek medical attention, even if you do not think you are hurt.
• Call a lawyer that can help you recover damages from the crash.
• Call your insurance provider to tell them of the accident, or ask your lawyer to call on your behalf.

You should never leave the scene for any reason after a hit-and-run, particularly to chase down the driver that hit you. Doing so could put your safety, and your claim, in jeopardy.

What to Do if You Cannot Locate the Hit-and-Run Driver

A hit-and-run is a very unique type of accident because it may not be possible to collect compensation from the negligent driver’s insurance provider. Fortunately, you may still have options. These include:

• Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage: You are required to purchase UM coverage when you originally purchase an auto insurance policy. This coverage will provide compensation for any bodily injury or property damage sustained by you and your passengers.
• MedPay coverage: This type of compensation will cover the medical costs of you and your passengers regardless of who was to blame for the crash.

A lawyer will review the facts of your case and pursue all options for claiming the compensation you deserve.

Call Our Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer in Illinois Now

If you have been injured by a hit-and-run driver, it is important that you do not file a claim on your own. At Brassfield & Krueger, Ltd., our Illinois hit-and-run accident lawyer can help you pursue the full damages you are entitled to. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.