When you are involved in a hit-and-run accident in California, you might end up confused and angry. It might be very unclear what to do in such a situation. However, you might decide to seek help from Sacramento car accident Attorney for guidance on seeking justice. When you get in such a position, there are procedures you can take to ensure that the claim process is smoother than usual. Here are elaborate ways you can handle this unfortunate situation
Understanding What is a Hit and Run Accident
A hit-and-run occurs when a vehicle hits you and speeds without stopping, or a driver hits your parked car leaving no contact details for collection of damages. The driver leaves the scene of the accident intentionally without providing contact particulars.
What to Do Straightaway After the Accident
Being a casualty of a hit-and-run accident can end in a lot of stress, but the wise thing to do is to stay calm. Try as much as possible to collect the details of the driver and the vehicle at fault. The more info you can gather, the higher the chances of police catching the at-fault driver. If it is your vehicle, the car insurance provider will also be able to make better decisions concerning your claim.
The vital information to look at on the car is its model, registration number, and its make. You might also check the face of the driver if you get the chance. It is also crucial to check if eyewitnesses are around and take their names and contact details.
In addition, ensure that you record the time of the accident and its location. If you can get photos of the accident and the photos of your car, all these details will help you justify your car insurance claim with the insurance firm and prove it is not a fraudulent claim.
Filling a First Information Report (FIR)
If you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident, you must inform the nearest police station of the incident. You should get an FIR filed. This will add weight to your car insurance claim.
Hit and Claim Process
If you cannot locate or recognize the driver who hit you or your vehicle, you can try getting their vehicle insurance information from your insurer. This will help you claim liability insurance under their motor insurance policy. According to California law, you may claim a hit and run for up to two years after the accident. The sooner you submit your claim, the sooner you can get compensated.
You should make additional statements to the police, and you should track their investigation. You should also take careful notes describing the repairs to your car and any medical attention you receive with all your insurance claim.
Conclusion
No matter the conditions of the hit and run, your collision coverage will assist in covering damage to your car, while comprehensive coverage won’t. Additionally, if you are unable to identify the driver, you can still make a claim to your uninsured or underinsured coverage for your bodily injury from a hit and run.
Overview
Hit-and-run accidents can be devastating for the victims involved, leaving them with injuries, property damage, and a lot of confusion. If you find yourself in this situation in California, it’s important to know the proper steps to take to protect yourself and your legal rights. Here are some guidelines on how to handle a hit-and-run accident in California.
- Stay Calm and Call for Help
The first thing you should do after a hit-and-run accident is to remain calm and call for help. Dial 911 and request emergency medical assistance if anyone is injured, and report the accident to the police immediately. Stay at the scene of the accident until the police arrive.
- Gather Information
While you’re waiting for the police to arrive, gather as much information as possible about the accident. Write down the make, model, and license plate number of the other vehicle if you can see it. If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their contact information as well.
- Document the Scene
Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and any injuries you may have sustained. This evidence will be valuable if you must file a claim with your insurance company or seek compensation in court.
- Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. Please provide them with all the information you gathered at the accident scene. They may be able to help you file a claim with your uninsured motorist coverage.
- Seek Legal Advice
If you were injured in the accident, you might need to seek legal advice from an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help you navigate the legal process and work to recover compensation for your injuries and damages.
