There’s no such thing as a good auto collision, but everyone can agree that there’s something particularly unnerving about the hit and run accidents. When another driver is responsible for the crash and dashes away without bothering to exchange insurance information, or even check on the medical status of people in the other vehicle, it can be both maddening and dangerous. So what should you do following this type of event?
Think Fast after an Accident — Call 911
For starters, call 911. Then assimilate whatever information you can about the other driver. Make a mental note about as many details as you can about the accident, including:
- The make and model of the other vehicle;
- The gender and general appearance of the driver;
- Details of the accident itself;
- The direction the other vehicle headed in its escape;
- The contact information of any witnesses to the events.
If possible, take pictures that could help in identifying the other driver or reconstructing the accident. Keep a copy of the police report with the investigating officer’s name and badge number in case you remember any details later. Law enforcement will likely attempt to locate surveillance camera footage from nearby businesses in order to locate the missing driver. Meanwhile, you may want to contact a local attorney to help you proceed.
Hit and Runs are a Serious Problem Nationwide
Hit and run incidents are on the rise across the country. Incredibly, there were over 2,000 hit and run fatalities in 2016 alone. And that is just a fraction of the total number of cases involving just property damage or personal injuries.
SC Car Insurance
Your collision insurance will cover the property costs associated with the accident, after the deductible. Injuries will be addressed by your personal injury policy.
In South Carolina, another option is available: uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Purchasing this type of policy (insurers are required to offer it) with higher levels of reimbursement can be a godsend in the event of a serious hit and run accident. South Carolina law Section 38-77-170 allows drivers to file a claim to sue John Doe in a hit and run situation to recover damages for property damage and/or personal injuries. However, this option is available to you only under very exacting circumstances:
- You reported the accident quickly after it happened;
- Property damage and injuries occurred as a result of a physical crash, and were seen by another witness who is willing to sign an affidavit stating the facts of the case;
- You’ve made a reasonable attempt to identify the other motorist.
Recovery from SC Auto Accidents
Following this horrendous type of accident, you may feel bewildered and disappointed in humanity. But you are not alone. At Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm, our experienced legal team will fight to achieve the best possible outcomes for you after a hit and run accident. Contact us for a free, confidential consultation in Greenville today.