When you’re struck by another vehicle, the moments immediately following the collision can be incredibly overwhelming. However, the last thing you expect when you compose yourself is to see the negligent driver speeding away. Unfortunately, when a driver flees the accident scene, it can leave the victim unsure of what to do. If this reflects your circumstances, the following blog explores what you should know about these complicated matters and how Baltimore County car accident attorneys can help guide you through these difficult times.
If a Driver Flees the Accident Scene, What Should I Do?
When you are the victim of a hit-and-run, your first instinct may be to chase after the other driver so you can get their information and hold them liable. However, there are two reasons why you should not do this. The first is because you may have sustained injuries that impact your ability to safely operate a vehicle. As such, in your pursuit, you may be involved in another collision, further injuring yourself and others.
The other reason you should not follow after the driver is because they are likely very erratic. They could be fleeing the scene because there is a warrant out for their arrest or they don’t have insurance. Regardless, trying to pursue the vehicle could increase the risk of a subsequent collision as it makes an unsafe situation even more dangerous.
As such, if the driver flees the scene, you should find a safe location to pull your vehicle over and call the police. Give the operator as much detail as possible about the other car, like the make, model, color, and any part of the license plate you can remember. If you are physically able to, you should speak to potential witnesses who can help provide additional information about the accident and other driver while you wait for the police to arrive.
Can I Still Receive Compensation for Damages?
Being the victim of a hit and run can be devastating as you may worry about whether or not you’ll recover the compensation. In some instances, the police will look for the vehicle based on the description you’ve provided and damage consistent with the accident. If they locate the driver, you will be informed so you can file a claim against them.
If the other driver is not located, you can still file a claim with your own insurance if you have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage.
As you can see, these matters can become incredibly complicated and overwhelming to navigate, especially when dealing with an injury. It’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you hold the negligent driver liable or navigate filing a claim through your own insurance to fight for the funds you deserve. At the Law Offices of Markey & Orsi, we understand how devastating a hit-and-run can be, which is why we are here to assist you. Connect with our firm today for additional details.
