How to Handle a Hit and Run Car Accident Claim

A hit and run car accident occurs when a driver willfully or unintentionally caused an accident, and then quickly leaves the scene.  The hit and run car accident claim can arise on public road or private parking lots. If a driver hits a car while parking into an unoccupied space. And then leaves the place without leaving a note, it will also be considered as hit and run.

Usually, a hit and run car accident claim is the most difficult and frustrating to prove. The reason is that the driver usually leaves little information of the crime. However, there are some steps that you can take right after a hit and run accident that can increase the chances of locating the perpetrator of the crime.

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What Do I Do After a Hit and Run Accident?

Here are the steps you should consider immediately after being in a hit & run accident:

1. The first thing that you should consider doing if you get injured in a hit and run accident while on the road or in a car is to remain absolutely calm and gather as much information as possible about the accident. Gathering information will help the police identify and locate the perpetrator of the crime.  As a result, you can file a case in the court to get compensation for your injuries.
   
2. You should try at least to note down the make, model, and if possible license plate number of the car. In addition, you should ask witnesses present there about the identity of the driver and the car. Make sure that you note down the name and contact details of the witnesses.
3. Also, you should take pictures of the accident scene from different angles. You should particularly take picture of any injury sustained in the hit and run car accident. Also, you should take pictures of your car if it was damaged due to a hit and run accident. Taking pictures of the scene immediately after the accident will help in proving to the court the extent of damage suffered due to the accident.

Additional Evidence?

In addition, you should find out if nearby businesses or homeowners have an outdoor surveillance camera for additional evidence. You can request them to provide a copy of the video. Having said that, they may deny your request since they are not obligated to provide you the video. However, if you have hired an experienced car accident lawyer, the attorney can issue a subpoena requesting for release of the video. It's vital that you contact a lawyer soon after the accident as most security cameras erase old data after a certain time period.

Conclusion

While it's difficult to locate the perpetrator of a hit and run accident, it's certainly not impossible. With the help of an experienced car accident attorney, you will greatly increase the odds of locating the guilty party. In case you want expert guidance regarding a recent hit and run accident, you should immediately contact a local Inland Empire lawyer who focuses on personal injury.