Experiencing a hit and run accident can be a terrifying experience. In addition to the potential harm of the accident itself, it can be disorienting and enraging to realize that the individual who hit you decided to flee the scene rather than offer assistance. Thankfully, when this happens, there are still some remedies available.

When a hit and run accident happens, it can be tempting to think that there is nothing you can do because you don’t know the identity of the driver who hit you. But there are several key steps you can take to help police with locating the driver who caused you harm. You should report the accident immediately — calling 911 if possible — and provide the police with the location of where the hit and run occurred and any information you have about the driver. This can include what direction they were headed, the color of their car, and what they looked like, if you know. If you were able to get the license plate number, this is also important information to share with the police.

Even if the police are not able to locate the driver, you may still be able to make a claim with your insurance company to recover compensation for your injuries and any related property damage like a totaled car. Whether this is possible depends on the extent of your automobile insurance coverage. Maintaining only the required insurance in Virginia, which includes bodily injury and property damage coverage, may not be enough to cover damages in a claim where you do not know the identity of the driver. There is additional insurance coverage that can protect you. Electing to include personal injury protection (PIP), which is a form of underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage, as part of your policy means that your insurer will pay your medical bills and property repairs if you cannot locate the driver who hit you and go through their insurance to get the compensation you need. 

If you have been in a hit and run accident and wondering what the next steps are, speaking with an experienced automobile accident attorney is a wise place to start. An attorney can help determine whether you have the ability to make a claim under your insurer or bring a claim in court.

The accident attorneys at Becker, Kellogg & Berry, P.C., in Springfield, Virginia can help answer any questions you may have about what your options are for collecting compensation after a hit and run accident. To set up a free initial consultation please call 888-312-5087 or contact us online.