What Should I Do if I Am Involved In A Hit-And-Run Accident?

Being involved in any car accident can be extremely stressful especially when the individual causing the accident leaves the scene.  Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents do occur and you should be aware of how to handle them if you find yourself in that scenario.

If the state of Florida, the law requires drivers involved in a car accident to do many things.  If you are involved in an accident, Florida law requires that all drivers involved remain at the accident scene until they are able to exchange required personal information including name, address, vehicle identification number and license number with the other drivers. Additionally, to the extent you can do so safely, you should  “render to any person injured in the crash reasonable assistance.” 

If you find yourself involved in an accident, whether a hit-and-run or one where the persons involved stay at the scene, you should stay calm and take the following steps:

• Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Is everyone okay? If not call an ambulance or have someone do it for you.

• Call the police and file a report with them when they arrive.

• Take a moment and write down everything you can remember, specifically details about the other car or driver. This will be helpful to the police.

• Talk to any eyewitnesses. Gather any information you can. Ask for contact information in case police or the insurance companies need to reach out to them later.

• Take pictures. Any supporting documentation can help. Also look for debris. Many times, pieces of a car involved in an accident break off or are left behind.

• Talk with your insurance agent.  Your agent will be able to tell you what you need to provide to file a claim. Generally, the property damage coverage held by the at-fault driver will cover the property damage but if the driver flees the scene you may need to make an initial claim with your insurance company.

• Get medical treatment.  Even if you didn’t go to the hospital on the day of the accident, you should still get evaluated by a medical professional.  Oftentimes, you may not realize whether, or to what extent, you have been injured after an accident for multiple reasons, including the adrenaline flowing through your body soon after an accident.

Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime. Simply put, NEVER leave the scene. Follow the steps above and also reach out to your car accident lawyer. They are there to help you during those stressful times.