Why You Shouldn’t Flee In A Hit and Run and What To Do Instead

The aftermath of a hit and run accident can become a nightmare. Over the years, the probability of a hit and run accident has actually increased. In fact, reports between 2009 to 2011 show they rose by almost 14%. Here are three situations that deal with hit and run accidents and what you should (and shouldn’t) do.

IF YOU HIT ANOTHER CAR OR PEDESTRIAN

This can be one of the scariest situations, especially if you hit a pedestrian.

– Never flee the scene. You are probably scared and panicked, but if you flee the scene you not only automatically look guilty, but it’s also against the law. Its better to stay and explain what happened – especially if it was an honest mistake on your end.

– Call the police, an ambulance, and your Colorado car accident attorney.

– Give the person you hit your information, insurance information, etc. If the person you hit won’t or can’t talk, wait for first responders and your Colorado car accident attorney to arrive and figure out what to do then.

– If the person you hit is hurt, make sure you wait for the ambulance.

– Don’t admit anything or say too much. Remember: anything you say will be used against you in court!

– Call your insurance company and let them know what happened.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU HIT A PERSON’S HOME OR VEHICLE

If you were driving down the street and suddenly crashed into a parked car or someone’s home, this can be a very terrifying situation. Your flight or fight mode will probably come into play and you may feel the urge to leave – but don’t.

Instead:

– Locate the person who owns the car or house. If you cannot locate them call the police and your Colorado car accident attorney. The attorney will add additional support when you need them, but they will also be a good legal representation to have in a situation like this. The police will also be able to help you find the owner of the car or home.

– If you find the individual let them know what happened and leave them your insurance and personal information.

Even if you hit something that is not a car or a home, such as a tree or a hydrant. Don’t run. Call the police, explain the situation, and then deal with the aftermath.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU WERE A VICTIM

If you were the victim of a hit and run – whether it was a vehicular accident or you were the pedestrian, you may or may not be able to get the proper information; depending on how injured you are.

If you are able to communicate:

– Remember what type of car hit you, the make, the model, the color or anything else you can remember. If you saw a license plate that is even more helpful.

– Call the police immediately and let the operator know you were the victim of a hit and run.

– Call your Colorado car accident attorney.

– Call your insurance company

If you are unable to communicate:

– Remember as much as you can

– Have someone help you contact your Colorado car accident attorney as soon as you are able.

Whether you are at fault in an accident or someone else is, being in any type of a car accident can be a scary, upsetting and confusing situation. If you want someone to support you and be by your side during legal proceedings or for a Free Consultation contact Sloat & Nicholson at 1-800-873-3202.