Any type of hit and run accident is a terrifying experience. Most drivers who accidently collide with another car or pedestrian will render aid or call for help, but not hit-and-run drivers. They take off and leave you to deal with your injuries.
In the aftermath, you’re left hurt, confused, and searching for answers as the at-fault driver speeds away. Fortunately, there are steps to take to protect yourself and your rights starting with contacting a supportive attorney like the team at Forbes Law Offices. We have helped many clients find a remedy for a hit-and-run car accident.
Here is what to do if you’re injured in a hit-and-run in West Virginia.
Put Your Safety and Health First
Stay calm and get to a safe location if you’ve been injured in a car crash. You need to call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical help.
Even if your injuries seem minor, you want to get checked by a healthcare provider. Sometimes, the symptoms do not appear for several days. Also, seeking help creates a medical record, which could be important if the driver is found.
Call the Police and File a Report
West Virginia law requires drivers to report accidents. In a hit-and-run, a police report is even more important. When law enforcement arrives, give them as much information as you can, including:
- The time and location of the accident
- A description of the fleeing vehicle, such as make, model, color, or even part of a license plate number
- The direction the driver went after the crash
- Any details about the driver, if you saw them
- What happened before, during, and after the accident
Collect Evidence
If you’re able to, start collecting evidence right away. This can make a big difference if you need to file an insurance claim or work with an attorney later. You will want to snap pictures of your injuries, damage to your vehicle, debris, and the scene.
Hopefully, someone witnessed the event. If they did, ask for their contact information. A witness statement can help police track down the driver.
Even nearby cameras can help. You may want to check for nearby businesses with security cameras that might have recorded the crash.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Since West Virginia follows an at-fault insurance system, the driver who caused the accident is responsible for damages. However, if the hit-and-run driver is not found, your own insurance may have to cover your losses.
Call your insurer as soon as possible to report the accident. If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, that could cover medical bills and vehicle repairs.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney
Hit-and-run accidents can be difficult to litigate, especially if the driver is not identified. A personal injury attorney can help you through the process and be your point of contact during an investigation. Hopefully, once the driver is found, they can help you take legal action against them.
Stay in Touch with Law Enforcement
If the police locate the driver, you may be able to file a claim against their insurance or pursue legal action. You always want to stay in touch with the investigating officers. If you find any new information, you can provide them with additional insights.
If the hit-and-run driver is found, they may face criminal charges under West Virginia law. Leaving the scene of an accident involving injuries is a felony. That could lead to jail time and fines. This can also strengthen your civil case if you choose to seek damages.
Explore Compensation Options
Even if the at-fault driver is never found, you still have options for recovering financial losses. These include:
- Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage: Many West Virginia drivers have UM coverage as part of their auto insurance. This can help pay for injuries and damages.
- Medical payments coverage: Some policies offer MedPay, which can assist with medical costs regardless of fault.
- Health insurance: If no other options are available, your health insurance may cover medical treatment.
If none of these apply, you may have to pay out of pocket for your expenses.
A personal injury attorney can help you with these options so that you can receive some type of compensation for your injuries.
A hit-and-run accident is a traumatic experience. However, when you take these steps, you can protect your health, finances, and legal rights.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a hit-and-run accident, Forbes Law Offices are here to assist. We can provide you with the help you need during this frustrating time.
