Hit and Run Accident? Here’s 5 Easy Steps to Deal with Them
A hit and run happens fast and leaves you stunned. One minute you are driving to work or heading home, and the next you are rear ended and the other driver speeds away. It is shocking and frustrating, but the steps you take right after the crash protect your health, your rights, and your insurance claim.
Five Simple Steps After a Hit and Run
1. Calm Down So You Can Think
Take a moment to breathe. Staying calm helps you think clearly and avoid decisions that can harm your case later. You want to focus on safety and gathering the right information.
2. Call the Police
Call 911 right away. Tell the operator your location, whether you are hurt, and what happened. A police report is critical for your claim, especially in Washington DC where uninsured motorist coverage often applies after a hit and run.
3. Gather Information
While waiting for police, look for details. Notice the other vehicle’s type, color, model, and any part of the license plate you remember. Note anything about the driver. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers. This helps police and your insurance company.
4. File the Police Report
Even if the other driver is not found, filing the report protects your claim. Your insurance company will need it to process your uninsured motorist coverage. This can cover your medical bills, car repairs, and lost wages without raising your rates.
5. Get Help From an Attorney
If you were seriously hurt in a hit and run, your recovery may depend on getting the right legal help. At Donahoe Kearney, we help injured people in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia handle the insurance companies and get the benefits they need. You can always reach out for guidance at 202-393-3320. We will walk you through every step.
Getting the right information early makes a major difference in your recovery, and this resource helps you make informed decisions from the start.
Our free book, The Ultimate Guide to Accident Cases in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, is written by Attorney Frank Kearney and explains the accident process in simple steps.
You will learn how accident cases work and what you should do to protect yourself. You will also get insider strategies that actually matter when dealing with insurance companies and choosing a lawyer.
A hit and run is overwhelming, but you are not expected to handle it alone. The faster you get clear information and the right guidance, the better your outcome will be.
At Donahoe Kearney, we help people in the DMV every day who were hurt through no fault of their own and need someone to step in, explain the process, and protect their rights.
If you are dealing with a hit and run and need answers, we are here to help you understand your options and get your recovery started the right way.
Call 202-393-3320 or book your free consultation here: Book Free Consultation.