Motor vehicle accidents are already emotionally stressful and potentially harmful, so dealing with a hit-and-run car accident in Danville can almost leave you feeling powerful. According to reports, there were over 11,000 hit-and-run collisions in Kentucky in 2021 alone.
If you experience a hit-and-run, the important thing is to remain calm. Our legal team is here to walk you through the critical steps to take in this situation to ensure you’re protected on all fronts.
Secure the Scene in a Hit and Run Car Accident in Danville
The priority after a hit-and-run accident is to secure the scene and ensure everyone’s safety. Here’s what you should do:
1. Pull over to a safe location: If your vehicle is drivable, carefully move it out of traffic and to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
2. Call the police: Immediately contact the Danville Police Department and report the hit-and-run incident. Provide them with the location, a description of your vehicle, and any details you may have about the other vehicle involved.
3. Check for injuries: Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 for emergency medical assistance.
4. Document the scene: Use your smartphone to take clear photographs of the damage to your vehicle, any skid marks or debris on the road, and the surrounding area. This visual evidence can be crucial for the police investigation.
Gather Information
While you wait for the police to arrive, start collecting as much information as possible about the incident. Here’s what you should do:
1. Look for witnesses: If there were any bystanders or other drivers who witnessed the accident, politely ask them for their contact information and a brief statement about what they saw. Their accounts could be invaluable to the police investigation.
2. Search for the other vehicle: Carefully scan the area for any clues that could help identify the vehicle that hit you, such as a partial license plate number or a description of the make, model, and color.
3. Write down the details: As soon as possible, jot down notes about the time, location, and any other relevant details you can recall about the incident.
4. Obtain the police report: Cooperate fully with the responding officers and ensure you receive a copy of the police report, which will document the details of the hit-and-run accident.
Notify Your Insurance Provider
Once the immediate situation is under control, you’ll need to notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run accident. Here are the steps to take:
1. Contact your insurer: Call your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the incident and initiate the claims process.
2. Provide accurate information: Be truthful and accurate when providing details about the accident to your insurance company. Withholding or misrepresenting information could jeopardize your claim.
3. Cooperate with investigations: Your insurance company may request additional documentation or coordinate with the police to investigate the incident. Respond promptly and provide whatever they need.
4. Consider hiring an attorney: Depending on the circumstances of the hit-and-run, you may want to consult with a Danville car accident attorney. They can help you navigate the insurance claim process, ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to, and potentially assist in the police investigation.
Pursue Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If the at-fault driver is never identified, you may need to rely on your own uninsured motorist coverage to cover the costs of the accident. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Understand your policy: Review your insurance policy to determine the extent of your uninsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage can help pay for your medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage in the event of a hit-and-run.
2. File a claim: Contact your insurance provider and initiate a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage. Be prepared to provide the details of the accident and any supporting documentation.
3. Remain patient: The claims process can take time, especially in a hit-and-run scenario. Work closely with your insurance company and, if necessary, your attorney to ensure your rights are protected.
Skip the Stress: Get Quality Legal Guidance Today
There’s perhaps nothing more frustrating than dealing with a hit-and-run car accident in Danville, KY. Fortunately, our legal team is here to support you every step of the way. For legal guidance, call our team today at 859-254-0024 or request a complimentary consultation by completing our form.
