Most people expect others to stop when involved in a car accident. Unfortunately, this is not always the case.
In fact, statistics show that 12,682 hit-and-run collisions occurred in Kentucky in 2018. Here are some tips on what to do if you find yourself in this unlucky situation.
1. Attempt to observe details of the vehicle as it flees
If you notice a vehicle that hit you or someone else attempting to leave the scene, do not intervene, but mentally note as many details as you can. Check for the color, make, model, and license plate number of the car or truck. Take photos if you have your camera readily available. The more particulars you can remember about the car and its driver, the more likely it is that law enforcement can find the person responsible for the crash.
2. Check yourself and others for injuries
Evaluate yourself and anyone else involved in the crash for potential injuries. Call 911 if someone seems hurt, no matter how minor it appears. Many injuries take time to fully manifest, but seeking medical attention sooner rather than later can assist you in establishing when you sustained the injury if you need to file a claim.
3. Report the wreck
In addition to having a medical professional evaluate your injuries, you should also report the incident to the police. This can aid you in filing an insurance claim and tracking down the driver who fled. Provide the police with as many details as possible to help them find the other party.
Though no one wants to be involved in a hit-and-run accident, they are sadly a fact of life and you should prepare yourself to deal with one if it happens.