What To Do After A Hit And Run Accident?
After a driver is involved in an accident in New Jersey, he or she is required to stop. If anyone has sustained injuries, the driver must call emergency services or take the injured party or parties to the hospital. A driver involved in a serious NJ car accident must call the police. New Jersey law also requires people to exchange information after a car accident. Unfortunately, some drivers do not abide by the law. Some drivers do not stop to render help, call the police, or exchange information. When a driver flees the accident scene, that is called a hit-and-run accident. Unfortunately, a hit-and-run accident risks further endangering the victim’s life. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in New Jersey and are wondering what to do, read on.
What To Do After a Hit and Run Accident?
The following are some of the things you should do after a hit-and-run accident;
- Contact the Police
The first thing you should do after a hit-and-run accident is to call the police. First, the police can help investigate the hit-and-run and try to locate the driver. Second, the police can inform you of what other steps you should take. Additionally, if you pursue an insurance or legal claim, the police report can provide evidence of the incident.
- Talk to Witnesses
After a hit and run, it is vital that you talk to people who may have seen or heard something. Witnesses may be able to describe the car that hit you. Witnesses may even be able to describe the driver.
- Take Pictures
If your condition allows you, take pictures at the accident scene. For example, take pictures of the damage to your car and photographs of your injuries. Photos can serve as crucial evidence for your insurance or legal claim.
- Write Down Everything You Know About the Accident
It is crucial that you write down everything you know about the accident. The following is some of the information you should write down;
- The date, time, and location of your accident
- A description of the car that hit you
- A description of the driver that hit you
- Seek Medical Attention
You should seek prompt medical attention after a hit-and-run accident. Not only is this crucial for your health, but it is also vital for an insurance or legal claim.
- Contact an Attorney
Finally, if you have been in a hit-and-run accident, contact a car accident attorney who can help you evaluate your legal options.
What Are Your Legal Options After a Hit and Run Accident?
If the driver is found, you can file an insurance claim against him or her. If the driver does not have insurance (according to the III, many drivers in the U.S. fit in this category), you can file a claim with your insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. You can also file a claim with your insurance company in the event that the fleeing driver is never found. If you don’t have uninsured motorist coverage, your only option may be to file a legal claim against the driver after he or she is found. However, that is only possible if the driver has enough assets.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve been in a hit-and-run accident and need legal guidance, contact our skilled New Jersey personal injury lawyers at Citizen Soldier Law.
