You’re driving down a San Antonio street when suddenly a car sideswipes you and speeds away. Shocked, you pull over with your hazards blinking to assess the damage. The front quarter panel is crunched and scraping the tire but the vehicle still runs. As your pulse starts to slow from the adrenaline rush, you wonder what to do next. Will the hit-and-run driver ever be found? How will you pay for repairs and medical bills? Getting compensation won’t be easy, but with the right steps, it is possible. Here’s what you need to know after a San Antonio hit-and-run accident.
Report the Accident
The first thing you should do after a hit-and-run collision is report it to the police. Call 911 and wait at the scene of the accident for officers to arrive. Be prepared to give a detailed description of the fleeing vehicle, including its color, make, model and license plate number if you were able to see it. This information will help police locate the at-fault driver.
Even if you don’t have details about the other vehicle, you should still report the accident. Ask witnesses at the scene for any information they may have and tell officers exactly what happened. Be sure to get the responding officer’s name and badge number for your records.
Seek Medical Attention
After a hit-and-run, you may be in shock and not realize the extent of your injuries. Many accident-related injuries like whiplash don’t show symptoms until hours or days later. It’s crucial to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible after the collision. Not only does this document your injuries for your claim, but it ensures you get the treatment you need.
Keep in mind that you’ll need to visit a doctor even if you feel fine. Adrenaline after an accident can mask symptoms. There may also be delayed-onset injuries you aren’t yet aware of. Getting evaluated quickly protects your health and your ability to get compensation down the road.
Collect Evidence
Without the at-fault driver present, collecting evidence of the hit-and-run is essential. Photograph any visible injuries and damage to your vehicle. Take pictures of the accident scene as well, including skid marks on the road and the position of the vehicles. If there are security cameras or witnesses in the area, get their contact information.
Write down all the details you remember about the accident while they’re still fresh. These notes will be useful when you file your claim. Hang onto any medical records and bills related to accident injuries too. The more evidence you have, the easier it will be to prove your case and get a fair settlement.
Call Your Insurance Company
Notify your auto insurance provider about the hit-and-run as soon as possible after the crash. Provide them with the accident report and any evidence you’ve collected. Your insurer will open a claim and start an investigation.
Depending on your policy, they may provide compensation for vehicle repairs, medical bills, lost wages due to injuries, pain and suffering and other accident-related expenses. This coverage can provide relief while you identify the at-fault motorist.
Consult a Car Accident Lawyer
In a hit-and-run claim, having skilled legal help is crucial. An experienced San Antonio car accident attorney will know how to build the strongest possible case using the evidence you’ve gathered. They can also negotiate aggressively with insurance companies on your behalf to maximize your settlement amount. In fact, it’s advised not to speak to insurance without your attorney present.
Your lawyer may be able to identify the at-fault driver if you were unable to get their information. They can issue subpoenas for security footage, track down eyewitnesses and take other steps the police may not have time for. Identifying the fleeing motorist allows your attorney to pursue additional compensation through their insurance policy.
Without legal representation, hit-and-run victims often struggle to get fair claims settlements from insurance companies. But with an attorney fighting for you, you increase your chances of being fully compensated for your injuries, vehicle repairs, lost income and other damages.
File a Claim with Your Insurance Company
If the at-fault driver remains unidentified, you’ll need to file an uninsured motorist claim with your insurance provider. They will investigate the accident and make a determination of fault based on the evidence.
Be prepared to negotiate if the settlement offer seems too low. An experienced car accident lawyer San Antonio can help maximize your payout. If a settlement can’t be reached, your lawyer may need to take the case to trial to fight for full compensation.
Sue the At-Fault Driver
If police or your attorney are able to identify the hit-and-run motorist, your lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit against them. This allows you to seek compensation through their insurance policy or directly from the driver if they have no coverage.
With a lawyer handling the lawsuit for you, the at-fault party is much more likely to agree to a fair settlement. But if they refuse, your attorney can build a compelling case and take it to court if necessary. The evidence collected from the accident scene will be vital in winning your case.
Don’t Wait to Get Help
Time is of the essence after a San Antonio hit-and-run accident. The sooner you report the crash, document your injuries, consult an attorney and file insurance claims, the better. Witnesses’ memories fade, evidence can disappear, injuries worsen over time.
By taking quick action after a hit-and-run, you make the best possible case for maximum compensation. Don’t let an irresponsible fleeing driver escape accountability – protect yourself by asserting your rights right away.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a San Antonio hit-and-run, don’t go it alone. Call Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys at 800-4-THE-WIN (800-484-3946) for dedicated legal help. Our experienced team will fight to get you the compensation you deserve so you can move forward after this difficult situation. Don’t wait – contact us today for a free consultation.
