Hit-and-run accidents are, unfortunately, very common occurrences. These accidents can leave victims with injuries, damaged vehicles, and emotional distress. If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it can be overwhelming to know what to do next.
However, there are specific steps that you need to take to protect yourself and your rights. That’s where a hit-and-run accident lawyer in Denver comes in. An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the complicated legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Below, we’ll discuss the steps you should take after a hit-and-run accident.
Move to a Safe Area
The first thing you should do after a hit-and-run accident is to move your vehicle to a safe location. If your car is still drivable, pull over to the side of the road or into a parking lot. Ensure you are away from traffic and not blocking any other vehicles.
Once you have parked in a safe location, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers of the accident. If your vehicle is not drivable, stay inside until help arrives. It’s important to prioritize your safety and that of others involved in the accident.
Remember, do not try to chase after the other driver or leave your vehicle unattended. This can be dangerous and may jeopardize your chances of receiving compensation for damages.
Check For Injuries
Immediately check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call for medical help right away. Seek professional medical care even if injuries seem minor.
Here are some injuries to look for:
- Head injuries, including concussions or cuts
- Neck and back pain, which can indicate serious damage
- Broken bones or fractures
- Internal injuries, like abdominal pain or chest pain
Once you have assessed the injuries, contact a hit-and-run accident attorney in Denver, CO. They can help guide you through the next steps and ensure you get the support you need.
Gather Vehicle Information
After ensuring everyone’s safety, try to remember and jot down details about the fleeing vehicle. This information is crucial for identifying the other driver and holding them accountable.
If possible, note the make, model, color, and license plate number of the other vehicle. If you cannot get the license plate number, try to remember any unique features or markings on the car that may help identify it.
Also, take note of which direction the other vehicle is heading. This can be important information for law enforcement when tracking down the hit-and-run driver.
Contact the Police
The next step is to call 911 and report the hit-and-run accident. Be sure to clearly state that you were involved in a hit-and-run and provide your location. The dispatcher will ask for details about the accident, so try to remember what happened accurately.
It’s crucial to contact law enforcement as soon as possible so they can gather evidence and begin their investigation. Your hit-and-run attorney in Denver can use this evidence to build a strong case against the other driver. Follow any instructions given by the dispatcher and wait for help to arrive.
Identify Witnesses
After a hit-and-run accident, look around for potential witnesses who might have seen the incident. Approach them politely, ask if they saw what happened, and request their contact information for future reference.
Your hit-and-run lawyer in Denver needs witness statements for several reasons:
- Establishing Fault: Witnesses can help prove that the other driver was at fault.
- Strengthening Your Case: Multiple eyewitness accounts can make your case more compelling.
- Collecting Detailed Information: Witnesses might notice details about the other vehicle or driver that can help identify them.
- Supporting Your Claims: Witness statements can corroborate your version of events, which is essential for insurance claims and court cases.
Eyewitness testimony can be used as evidence to hold the hit-and-run driver accountable for their actions. This is why you must gather witness statements as soon as possible after an accident.
Take Photos of the Scene
Using your phone or camera, take photos of the accident scene. These images can be valuable evidence when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
Take pictures of your vehicle’s damage from various angles, including close-ups and wide shots. Also, capture images of the surrounding area, any skid marks on the road, and any traffic signs or signals in the vicinity. These photos can help establish fault and show the severity of the accident.
Don’t forget to take pictures of any injuries you or your passengers may have sustained. These images can be used as evidence to support your personal injury claims. Visual documentation of the accident scene is crucial in building a strong case and receiving fair compensation for damages.
File a Detailed Police Report
When the police arrive at the scene of a hit-and-run accident, you must provide them with all the information you have gathered. This includes details about the other vehicle, witnesses, and photos of the scene. The officer will then create an official report that documents the incident.
Make sure to give a clear and accurate account of what happened. Be honest and do not leave out any important details. This report will be used as evidence when pursuing legal action against the hit-and-run driver and their insurance company.
It’s also important to obtain a copy of this police report for your records. Your hit-and-run attorney in Denver will use this report to support your claims and build a strong case on your behalf.
Notify Your Insurance Company
It is important to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after a hit-and-run accident. They must be aware of the incident and gather information about the damages.
When you speak with your insurance company, give them a detailed account of what happened. Share any information you have gathered, including witness statements, photos of the scene, and the official police report. This will help support your claims and ensure you receive fair compensation for damages.
It’s important to notify your insurance company promptly after a hit-and-run accident so they can begin processing your claim. The longer you wait, the more difficult it may become to receive adequate compensation for damages.
Schedule a Consultation With a Hit-and-Run Attorney in Denver, Co
If you want to get the compensation you deserve, you must hire a hit-and-run attorney in Denver. Contact Levine Law for a free consultation.
