All vehicle accidents are stressful experiences but hit and run accidents can be especially difficult to deal with. There is often a sense of confusion and uncertainty because the other driver has fled the scene. However, it is important to understand the best way to respond to hit and run accidents because according to statistics compiled by AAA, more than 10 percent of accidents that get reported to the police are hit and runs. After a person is involved in a hit and run, they have a variety of options. Finding the other driver can help a person recover damages for their injuries, but there are also other paths to recovery.
Finding the Other Driver
Despite the fact that the other driver has left the scene of the accident, there may still be ways to find them and hold them responsible for the damage that they caused. The immediate aftermath of the accident will likely be hectic for everyone in the car, but the more identifying details that they can gather, the better off they will be. This includes looking for things like the car’s make and model, its color, and its license plate number. Additionally, victims of hit and runs should also talk to any pedestrians or other witnesses who may have had a better view of the car to see if they have any information to share.
Modern technology can also help identify hit and run drivers. The proliferation of cell phone cameras means that someone may have been able to take video of the fleeing car. Even if that did not happen, traffic cameras and other nearby security footage may be able to shed light on the hit and run driver’s identity.
Police reports can also be a useful way of tracking down the other driver. Many hit and run drivers experience remorse and will eventually turn themselves in to the police. This is especially true for hit and run accidents involving alcohol. If a victim files a police report then it can make pairing the hit and run driver to the accident much easier.
Other Options
Even if the other driver cannot be found, victims still may be able to receive compensation for their injuries. If the victim is insured, then part of that insurance policy may provide “uninsured motorist coverage.” The original idea behind this coverage was that it could help a person if they get into an accident with a person who does not have insurance, but many policies also cover hit and runs.
Contact a Va. Accident Attorney Today
If you have been involved in a hit and run accident, contact a Virginia car accident attorney from Shapiro & Appleton to find out what your legal options may be. Our firm has built a solid reputation for successfully obtaining the best possible outcome available for our clients.
Call our office today to schedule a free and confidential consultation. You can also download our free legal info guide on uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
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