Protecting Yourself In The Face Of The Rise In Hit-And-Run Accidents

Even with advances in car safety technology such as pre-collision systems that can alert you to obstacles, over five million motor vehicle crashes occur annually resulting in over two million injuries. In addition, accident statistics reveal that hit-and-run collisions are on the rise according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. However, it can be hard for victims and their families to obtain justice because at-fault drivers flee the scene, hide from law enforcement and may not have insurance.

The following guidelines can help you to protect yourself and receive sufficient compensation if you suffer vehicle damage or injuries due to a hit-and-run accident.

Obtaining Adequate Insurance Coverage

States regulate car insurance and determine the basic coverage you must purchase when you own a vehicle. Generally, the minimum insurance requirements include liability coverage that pays for damage or injuries caused by the driver. In many states you can also purchase additional types of coverage including uninsured.

Policies that include uninsured coverage protect you when the at-fault driver does not have insurance or is a hit-and-run offender. If you purchase uninsured coverage voluntarily or if your state requires the additional protection your policy should cover damage to your car and bodily injury if the police are unable to find the at-fault driver.

Make sure to discuss the exact details of coverage with your insurance agent to make sure you can receive compensation after a hit-and-run crash that was not your fault. The policy may stipulate that certain conditions be met in order for you to file a claim such as the presence of a credible witness.

Handling an Accident

If you do not suffer any serious injuries that require immediate medical care there are certain steps you need to take right after you get hit and the negligent driver leaves the scene.

Do your best to remain as calm as possible so you can concentrate on gathering information about the accident. Write down any details you remember about the accident as soon as possible including:

• A description of the driver and their vehicle including the license plate number, make, model and color
• Any damage you noticed to the driver's vehicle and other identifying features such as bumper stickers and custom accessories
• The time and location of the accident

If you have a camera, take photos of the scene. In addition, make sure to look around to see if there were witnesses. Ask them about what they saw and if they would be willing to be a witness. Exchange contact information with the witnesses.

Interacting With Your Insurance Company

Insurance companies require you to follow strict guidelines for filing claims after car accidents. In order to make sure you fill out their forms properly, provide adequate information and meet compensation requirements, obtain the assistance of a car accident attorney to help you navigate the claims process.

An attorney will also be helpful if the insurance company tries to delay your claim or does not want to pay you the full cost of damage to your vehicle, medical bills and other expenses associated with the accident.

You do not want to attempt to handle a complex hit-and-run claim on your own. If the insurer does not feel that you have enough evidence for a hit-and-run claim they can attempt to deny you the compensation you deserve. If this happens, your lawyer can file an appeal for you.

If the police eventually find the hit-and-run driver you can also discuss filing a civil case against the offender with your attorney. A civil suit provides you with the opportunity to seek further compensation for vehicle damage and injuries. Read more about how a car accident lawyer can help you get you fair compensation.