According to a recent AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety report, more than one hit-and-run crash occurs every single minute on U.S. roads. In 2016 alone, hit and run crashes accounted for 2,049 deaths, which was the highest on record. It also represented a 60% increase since 2009. According to their data, nearly 65% of all people killed in hit and run crashes were cyclists or pedestrians. In addition, hit and run deaths have been steadily increasing 7.2% each year since 2009.
If you are a victim of a hit and run accident in Georgia, you may have many questions running through your mind. How will I pay my medical bills? Who is going to help me get my car repaired? What if the “at fault” driver is never found? When this occurs, it is important to seek experienced legal help immediately. Your lawyer can help you through this difficult time and protect your rights every step of the way.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident in Georgia
Being involved in a hit and run accident in Georgia can be confusing and terrifying. During this time, it is important to know that the steps you take immediately after the crash can affect your ability to obtain the compensation you need.
- Remain Calm. After a hit and run accident, it is natural to be scared and confused. Try to remain calm when the “at fault” driver leaves the scene so you can take the next steps quickly.
- Contact the Police. It is important to immediately contact the police and report your hit and run accident even if you are not injured. Police officers will need to investigate the crash and review any surveillance films on site to apprehend the hit and run driver. They will also need to interview any eyewitnesses that may be able to help them identify the driver quickly.
- Seek Medical Help. If you are injured, or even if you don’t believe you are, it is important to seek medical attention quickly. Some injuries are not always self-evident. As such, seeking medical help is an essential part of being able to recover damages for medical injuries and pain and suffering.
- Gather Evidence. Get the names and numbers of any eyewitnesses at the scene of the accident. Also, write down as much as you can remember about the accident and the other driver. Remembering a license plate number or make and model of the vehicle may help the police track down the hit and run driver. Also, take pictures of the accident scene if you are able, as well as any vehicle damage.
- Contact Insurance Company. Hit and run claims will usually have to be processed under the victim’s automotive insurance policy. If you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, you will be able to collect compensation under this policy. If the hit and run driver is identified, the claim will then be processed under that driver’s insurance policy.
- Contact an Attorney. Hit and run accident claims are often complex and require experienced legal representation. Sometimes, insurance companies are reluctant to pay claims even one that they are rightfully required to pay.
Contact Our Hit and Run Accident Attorneys Today!
At Schnipper Law, P.C., our Atlanta hit and run accident attorneys know how difficult hit and run accidents can be. You may never find the at-fault driver and you may have to turn to your own insurance company for help. When this happens, how much compensation you are able to obtain depends largely on the steps you make after a hit and run accident. If you’ve been injured, call Schnipper Law P.C., at (404) 545-5845 for a free initial consultation and review of your case. We can help you recover the money you need to put your life back together after a hit and run.
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