Managing Partner
A hit-and-run accident occurs when an at-fault driver flees the scene of the accident before notifying the authorities. In a hit-and-run situation, victims are often left traumatized and unsure of how to proceed. Although it’s impossible to predict a hit-and-run accident, you must know what to do if you ever find yourself in this type of situation. In this article, we discuss the steps to take following a hit-and-run accident in New York.
Don’t Try to Catch the Driver
Although it may be tempting to pursue a driver following a hit-and-run accident, you shouldn’t do so. There are several reasons for this. For one, it’s never safe to engage in a car chase. Second, it’s quite possible that the other driver is dangerous. Therefore, the proper thing to do immediately following a hit-and-run is remain at the scene.
Call the Authorities
Even if you don’t believe you’ve been injured, or the damage to your vehicle is minimal, you should call the police. There are several benefits to doing so, including ensuring that a report of the incident is created, which can be useful in seeking compensation for the accident and identifying the other driver.
Take Notes
Next, you should write down as much information as you can remember about the accident. Specifically, you should record details about the other driver’s vehicle, such as its make and model, color, and license plate number. And if you were able to see the driver, you should record any physical characteristics you can remember.
Take Footage
Pictures and videos can be extremely useful in a hit-and-run case—particularly when seeking financial compensation down the road. Therefore, following a hit-and-run accident in New York, you should take pictures of any injuries you suffered and any damage to your vehicle. In addition, you should take photos and video footage of the scene of the accident, including street signs and traffic signals in the area. Any relevant information you can record that may provide insight into the cause and results of the accident can be useful in your legal case.
Gather Witness Information
Finally, you should collect the contact information of anyone who witnessed your accident. Specifically, you should collect the names and phone numbers of all witnesses. And even if those present don’t believe they witnessed anything important, sometimes small details that seem irrelevant can be useful to investigators. Therefore, it is important to collect the contact information of anyone in the vicinity of your accident.
Contact a Long Island Car Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident in the state of New York, Dell & Dean, PLLC, is on your side. When you come to us for assistance with your New York hit-and-run case, we will investigate your case and diligently pursue financial compensation on your behalf. We have a strong track record of helping accident victims, and we want to put our knowledge and experience to work for you. Please contact us to arrange a consultation with an experienced Long Island car accident lawyer.
