Experiencing a hit and run accident can be a traumatic experience. Not only must you live with the physical and psychological effects of the accident, but you also must deal with the fact that the other driver has failed to fulfill their legal obligations by fleeing the scene. Fortunately, if you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident, there are steps you can take to ensure your odds of a successful outcome. In this article, we discuss what to do if you’re involved in a hit and run accident in Suffolk County.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident
The steps you take after a hit and run accident can affect your ability to recover physically and financially. To give yourself the best chance at a safe and successful outcome following a hit and run accident, you should take the following steps:
Get to Safety
First, you should move from the roadway to a safe location. Moving out of the road will help prevent additional harm. In addition, you should not attempt to chase the other driver. If possible, however, attempt to memorize the other driver’s plate number and vehicle description.
Call the Police
Next, you should call the police to report the incident. In addition to ensuring that you receive a medical examination at the scene of the accident, the authorities will begin attempting to locate the other driver. When the authorities arrive at the scene, you should provide them with as much information about the other driver as possible, including vehicle make and model, the driver’s description, and license plate number.
Compile Evidence
If you can do so safely, you should take photos and videos of the scene of the accident, including damage to your vehicle, physical injuries, obstructions on the road, skid marks, and anything else that may be helpful. In addition, you should obtain the contact information of any witnesses to your accident.
Seek Medical Attention
You should also see a medical professional after your hit and run accident—even if you don’t believe you were injured. Some injuries, such as internal injuries and head injuries, don’t present immediate symptoms. Therefore, it’s always best to receive a medical examination as soon as possible after a hit and run accident.
Consult with an Attorney
Finally, if you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident in New York, you should consult with an experienced New York hit and run accident attorney. An experienced attorney will build your case and aggressively seek financial compensation on your behalf.
Contact a New York Hit and Run Accident Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident in Suffolk County, New York, you should contact an experienced New York hit and run accident attorney as soon as possible. At Dell & Dean, PLLC, our experienced New York hit and run accident attorneys have the experience and knowledge necessary to seek legal recourse on your behalf. Please contact us to schedule a free initial consultation with a New York hit and run accident attorney.