How to handle the situation of getting involved in a hit-and-run accident.
Whether you sensed it coming or it took you by surprise, being the victim of a hit-and-run accident is no walk in the park. Such an incident can leave you feeling physically and mentally debilitated. If the driver that hit you speeds off, here is what you should do to minimize any further damage.
Don’t chase after the vehicle. Although it’s tempting to hunt down the driver that pinged your vehicle, driving after him or her can be dangerous. It’s best left to the professionals to take care of that situation. Try to note down important information about the event and the vehicle while it is still fresh in your mind.
Record eyewitness information. If there are any witnesses at the scene or if there were other people in your car at the time of the accident, ask if they remember anything about the vehicle and the situation. The more information that you can gather, the better.
Record details. Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and record the date, time, location, and whole incident.
File a police report. The police need to have all of the information on record to assist in finding the guilty party in the car accident. Be honest with the investigating officers and if you’re not sure of any details, let them know. Furthermore, a police report will help you to file an insurance claim.
Contact your insurance agency. Let your insurer know that you’ve been involved in a hit and run accident. Information and the police report will help in compiling your claim together.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you against both financial and non-financial losses sustained as a result of an uninsured, underinsured, or hit-and-run driver. Contact insurance experts Perry & Carroll in Elmira, New York for all of your car insurance coverage needs.