What You Need to Know About Handling a Hit-and-Run Accident

 Posted on April 12, 2022 in Personal Injury

While all car accidents have the potential to be dramatic scenarios, nothing compares to the feeling of being involved in a hit-and-run accident. Hit-and-runs occur when a driver strikes another person, vehicle, or property and drives away. According to North Carolina law, if a car accident causes any injury or property damage of at least $1,000, the individuals involved must stop and exchange contact information. If you were injured due to a hit-and-run accident, you may be eligible for financial compensation.

Always Seek Medical Attention After Being Hurt in a Car Crash

If you are hurt in an accident—either as a motorist or pedestrian—it is imperative that you go to the hospital immediately. Although you may think your injuries are minor at the time of the accident, the actual pain of your injuries may be masked by adrenaline. When this “fight or flight” hormone is no longer in your bloodstream, you may realize you are injured far worse than you realize. Delaying medical treatment may aggravate your injuries and reduce your chances of receiving compensation for lost wages or medical bills.

Collect as Much Information as Possible and Speak with Witnesses

Every hit-and-run is different. Sometimes you might not even see who or what hit you, let alone a license plate number. If you do see the vehicle that caused the accident, try to make a note of the model, make, or color of the vehicle. If you can, snap a picture of the vehicle or take note of the license plate number. Even a partial license plate number can help police figure out the perpetrator. Furthermore, get names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident. They may become valuable witnesses in the future. It is vital that individuals involved in a car accident write this information down as soon as they are able. The emotional nature of an accident can make recalling information by memory very difficult.

Our Experienced Wake County Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help

Once you have sought medical attention for your injuries, your next call should be to an experienced Raleigh car accident lawyer at Vasquez Law Firm, PLLC. Our team has successfully represented clients involved in car accidents, truck accidents, bicycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, and more. If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run car accident, we are ready to fight on your behalf. Call 1-844-YO-PELEO to schedule your cost-free initial consultation today.

Sources:

https://www.dmv.org/tips-for-handling-a-hit-and-run-driver-claim.php

https://www.statefarm.com/simple-insights/auto-and-vehicles/what-to-do-after-a-hit-and-run