According to data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, a hit-and-run accident occurs in the U.S. every 43 seconds. They also found that Louisiana has one of the highest rates of hit-and-run accidents.
If you’ve been in a hit-and-run accident in Lake Charles, New Orleans, or the surrounding areas of the state, you’ll want to know the proper steps to take. This guide will give you the information needed to help you file a car accident claim and navigate this complicated process. Continue reading to learn more.
Call 911
It’s important to pull over to a safe location after an accident. Even if the other driver takes off, you should stop to assess the damage.
Check on every passenger in your vehicle and call 911 right away if there are any injuries. Even if the damage is minimal, you’ll need to file a police report, especially since leaving the scene of an accident is considered a crime.
It’s important to get checked out by a doctor even if you have no visible injuries. Many injuries can show up days or even weeks after the accident. Whiplash is one of the most common car accident injuries and it affects over one million Americans each year.
Collect Information
After checking for injuries and calling the police, you’ll need to start gathering evidence of the accident. Take photos of the damage to your car and any injuries sustained.
Take note of any details you remember about the car that fled the scene. This can include the color or model of the car or partial license plate numbers.
You should also keep records of any medical treatment you or your passengers receive. You’ll need this for your insurance claim and when you speak to an attorney.
Contact an Attorney
You’ll need to weigh your legal options after being the victim of a hit-and-run. Hiring an attorney is the best way to guarantee compensation for the damages you’ve suffered if your insurance policies don’t cover all car repairs and medical bills.
Your attorney can open an investigation to help locate the other driver involved in the accident. The best attorneys will help you get compensation for lost wages, out-of-pocket expenses, and any emotional damage caused.
Wright Gray Trial lawyers are well-versed in the state laws surrounding these types of car accidents and can guide you through this complex process.
Take These Steps After a Hit-And-Run Accident
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a stressful event to face. It’s important to know the right steps to take to get the justice you deserve.
Seeking medical attention if needed is the crucial first step to take. Filing a police report and gathering evidence for your attorney will help make the legal process easier.
Contact Wright Gray today to schedule a free consultation and get the best legal help you can find in the New Orleans and Lake Charles areas.