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What to Do if You’re Involved in a Hit-and-Run Accident

What To Do If You’re Involved In A Hit And Run Accident

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of what to do next. Such accidents not only pose a physical and emotional toll but can also bring about significant financial and legal complications. Understanding the steps to take after a hit-and-run is key. It ensures your safety, supports the investigative process, and protects your legal rights.

This guide breaks down the critical actions you need to take after a hit-and-run, highlights the importance of having a trusted personal injury attorney, and explains the legal process to secure the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents

According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), California ranks among the top states for hit-and-run incidents, and the Inland Empire region, which includes Riverside, is especially impacted.

A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in a collision flees the scene without identifying themselves or providing assistance. These incidents range from minor fender benders to devastating accidents resulting in severe injuries—or worse. Pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers are all vulnerable to hit-and-run crimes.

This negligent and illegal behavior adds an extra layer of hardship for the victims, who often face difficulties in identifying the responsible party to recover damages.

Some of the most common scenarios include:

  • Collisions at busy intersections
  • Hit-and-runs in parking lots
  • Pedestrian or cyclist accidents on crowded streets
  • Late-night incidents with little to no witnesses

With such risks in mind, Riverside residents need to be prepared and informed about the immediate steps to take if they find themselves in this unfortunate situation.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you are a victim of a hit-and-run, acting quickly and strategically is crucial. Here’s what you should do to protect your health, safety, and legal standing:

1. Ensure Your Safety First

Stay calm and ensure you are in a safe location. If the accident occurred on a busy road, move to the side of the street, if possible. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.

2. Call the Authorities

Dial 911 and report the incident to local law enforcement immediately. Provide any details you can remember about the fleeing vehicle, such as the make, model, color, or license plate number, as well as the direction it was headed. A police report will be critical for insurance claims and legal proceedings later.

3. Seek Medical Attention

Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get checked by a medical professional. Internal injuries or shock-related issues might not be immediately apparent but can become serious if left untreated.

4. Preserve Evidence

Your ability to document the scene can make or break your case. Actions to take include:

  • Taking photos of your vehicle’s damage, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries.
  • Collecting witness statements and contact information, if possible.
  • Noting all critical details of the event while they are fresh in your mind, such as the time, location, and sequence of events.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance provider about the accident. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, this will be especially important in covering costs while the hit-and-run driver remains unidentified.

By taking these steps, you lay the foundation for a solid case, reducing complications as you move forward in the legal and insurance process.

The Legal Process After a Hit-and-Run in Riverside

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the legal process following a hit-and-run accident:

1. Filing a Police Report

After contacting law enforcement at the scene, ensure you obtain a copy of the police report. This document will be required by both insurance providers and legal professionals.

2. Determining Liability and Compensation

Even if the hit-and-run driver isn’t immediately located, you can work with your insurance provider to explore coverage options through policies like uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

3. Filing a Personal Injury Claim

If the hit-and-run driver is found, your attorney can file a personal injury lawsuit against them to recover damages, including:

  • Medical expenses
  • Property damage
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering

4. Negotiating Settlements

Your attorney will negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure the best possible settlement. If negotiations fail, the case may proceed to court, where your legal team will advocate on your behalf.

With the right preparation and legal support, you can secure fair compensation and hold the negligent party accountable.

Protect Yourself and Seek Justice

Hit-and-run accidents are deeply distressing, but knowing what to do can help protect your rights and start your recovery. Acting quickly—by preserving evidence, seeking medical attention, and contacting an experienced personal injury attorney—can make all the difference.

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run in Riverside, CA, or have questions about your case, contact Wagner Zemming Christensen, LLP today at 951-363-3923 for a consultation. Our dedicated team is here to help you through every step of the process.

Don’t delay—your future and peace of mind depend on taking action now.

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