Being in an auto accident is stressful enough. Once the hit and run element is added to situation, it can leave you feeling helpless. According to traffic laws, a hit and run is classified as an act of someone knowingly causing an accident and then leaving the scene without providing any information about themselves or providing assistance to another. It’s a misdemeanor unless someone is injured in most jurisdictions. If someone is harmed in the hit and run, it could become a felony charge. Any witnesses to an accident should stay to give a statement to law enforcement, especially when one party in an accident flees. You must carefully document hit and run accidents for your insurance company and the police as with any collision. Today, we at Highway 30 Towing would like to detail the steps you should take when you are involved in a hit and run.
 

What Should You Always Do After a Hit & Run Car Accident?

1) Resist following the driver fleeing from the scene. You can compromise the scene of accident when you leave. Police could question who’s really at fault and you miss getting eyewitness accounts. Additionally, you run the risk of getting into another accident, or putting yourself in a dangerous situation without knowing the state of mind of the other driver.
2) Contact 911. If anyone is injured, even if its minor injuries, you should have emergency responders provide assistance.
3) Call law enforcement. Have the police come to the scene and file a police report. Once you have the police report, you should file an accident claim with your insurance. In addition to helping police look for the missing driver, the official accident report will be useful when you file your accident claim.
4) Get details about hit and run. Though it may not be possible, you want to get as much information about the other driver as you can. Pertinent information include:
– License plate number
– Vehicle’s make, model and color,
– Damage to the other vehicle
– Direction the vehicle fled
– Photos of the damage to your vehicle
– Location, time, date, and cause of the accident.
5) Get witness accounts of hit and run. Any witness accounts can help supply you with additional information. Be sure to get their names and contact information if they give you or the police a statement. Also, when you were not with your vehicle, witness information can be especially helpful if the hit and run occurred.
6) Hit and run insurance. Your auto policy may cover some expenses if you are involved in a hit and run. It is important to note that coverages will vary by state. Any deductible or policy limit you have chosen will apply as well.
 

Towing, Roadside Assistance & More in Cassia, Gooding, Jerome & Twin Falls Counties in Magic Valley, Idaho & Jackpot, Northern Nevada

When you have been involved in a hit and run accident, after you have finished with law enforcement and any injuries are treated, should your vehicle be inoperable, you want to have the vehicle towed accordingly. In Twin Falls, ID, the professionals of Highway 30 Towing can help you get the vehicle towed to your requested destination. Call us whenever you need a tow or roadside assistance.