Car accidents are an ever-present danger on Florida roads. No matter what you do, there is still a chance that an accident will occur. The silver lining in these situations is the fact that you have the right to seek compensation from a negligent party or gain relief through insurance. But what if you don’t know who hit you? Hit-and-run accidents are more common than you might think, and responsible drivers who find themselves staring at a fleeing vehicle after an accident often don’t know what steps to take. Today, we aim to provide you with an actionable plan to follow after a hit and run and explain why a personal injury attorney can still be a valuable partner in such situations.

The Aftermath of a Hit and Run – Immediate Steps

In the immediate aftermath of a Florida hit and run, knowing the proper steps to take sets you up for future success. Your actions can significantly impact your safety, health, and legal rights should you pursue a claim.

Essential Actions Following a Hit and Run:

Seek Medical Attention: Prioritize your health above all else. Even if injuries seem minor, they may worsen over time. Internal injuries may also be harder to readily identify.
Document the Scene: Take high-quality photos of the immediate aftermath, including your vehicle., the surrounding area, and any visible marks or injuries on passengers.
Look for Witnesses: Attempt to locate witnesses who say the accident occurred. Get their contact information, as eyewitness accounts can be invaluable in future legal cases.
Note Details of the Fleeing Vehicle: If possible, record the make, model, color, and license plate number of the vehicle that struck you.
Report the Incident: Contact local authorities to document the hit and run and get it into their reporting system. Even if you have limited info on the other vehicle, this creates a specific event logged inside an internal system that police and attorneys can reference later.
Seek Legal Representation: Finding the perfect attorney for your case can be a lengthy process, but always aim to have legal representation before engaging in talks with an insurance company.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance provider about the accident immediately and forward any information you gathered.
Preserve Evidence: Keep detailed records for anything related to the accident – medical bills, car repair bills, tow costs, or hardship suffered due to lack of transportation or injuries.
Avoid Making Repairs Immediately: Document all vehicle damage before repairing it. Ideally, have an attorney help you preserve this evidence further and provide it to insurance.

How Can an Attorney Help Me If I Don’t Know Who Hit Me?

A personal injury attorney becomes indispensable when the at-fault driver in a hit-and-run is unknown. They explore alternative legal avenues to ensure you’re not left bearing the financial burden alone. For starters, an attorney can investigate the incident to uncover any possible leads on the perpetrator and work closely with law enforcement to look deeper. Additionally, they can assist in making a claim against your own uninsured motorist coverage, a part of many auto insurance policies in Florida. Attorneys adeptly handle negotiations with your insurance company, advocating for a fair settlement. Their intervention often means the difference between inadequate compensation and a settlement that truly covers your losses and suffering.

Probinsky & Cole is a personal injury law firm with offices in Orlando, Tampa, and Sarasota. Contact us after your hit-and-run accident to discover the options available.