When you’re involved in an accident, it pays to know exactly how to handle the situation. If that collision just so happens to be a hit and run, you want to be sure that you’re ready to manage the incident accordingly.
Luckily, we’re here to help drivers near Brockton, Randolph, and Stoughton learn more about the necessary steps after a collision with this guide to the tips for hit and run accidents created by the team at Collision 24. Thanks to the insights provided in this manual, you’ll feel confident that you’re ready to take on anything thrown your way.
Handling a Hit and Run
Think about it: after you’re involved in an accident, it’s important to gather yourself, take a deep breath, and focus on taking down as much information as you can, especially if it’s a hit and run situation. Once you’ve centered yourself and calmed down, start running through this list of accident check points:
Key Collision Details
The first few minutes after you’ve experienced a collision are the most critical. As the driver leaves the scene of the accident, you want to gather as much information about the vehicle as you can.
First and foremost, make sure to commit their license plate number to memory or write it down, if you have a piece of paper and a pen nearby.
While you’re recording the car’s license plate number, take note of the make and model of the automobile, if possible. All in all, these details will allow law enforcement officials to more easily track down the owner of the vehicle.
When, Where, How
After you’ve completed that step, play back the entire collision in your mind and write it down—from the moment the accident occurred to when the driver left the premises.
By reviewing these details, including when and where the accident occurred and how it happened, you’ll not only instill this information into your memory, but you’ll also provide the local police with key data on the hit and run incident.
While you’re at it, snag a few photos of the damage done to your vehicle. This will help you in filing a claim with your insurance company.
Contacting Witnesses
As another critical step of gathering information after a hit and run accident, you’ll want to speak to anyone who saw the collision occur. Thanks to their testimony, you’ll have the evidence you need to back up your claims.
If you can’t find anyone who witnessed the accident, ask any local businesses along the road on which the hit and run happened if they have security footage. If they do, this can assist you in filing a report with the police.
What If I’ve Committed a Hit and Run?
Now that we’ve covered the steps of what to do after a hit and run accident, it’s time to consider another perspective: What should you do if you’ve committed a hit and run?
Well, the first order of business is to turn yourself into the police. Although vehicular hit and run laws differ by state, you could be held criminally liable after leaving the scene of a collision.
By turning yourself in, you have the chance of avoiding further charges and the possibility of earning less severe penalties for the crime. Once you’ve informed law enforcement about the hit and run, contact your lawyer, so they can help you with the case proceedings.
Get Your Vehicle Repaired Today!
At Collision 24, we want to assist all drivers near Brockton, Randolph, and Stoughton in getting back on your feet after you’ve experienced a hit and run accident. By choosing our friendly collision professionals and state-of-the-art facility, you’ll receive the care and support you need.
To learn more about our team and our trustworthy repairs, feel free to give us a call, stop by for a visit, or schedule your collision repair appointment today!