What to Do After a Hit-and-Run in Florida
Being involved in a car accident is a stressful and disorienting experience. That stress is amplified when the other driver flees the scene. Hit-and-run accidents leave victims feeling helpless and unsure of what to do next. In Florida, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime, but unfortunately, it happens all too often.
Knowing the correct steps to take immediately after the incident is crucial for your safety, your health, and your ability to recover compensation for your damages. Our personal injury attorneys will outline the essential actions to take if you become a victim of a hit-and-run in Florida. Following these steps can protect your rights and strengthen your potential legal claim.
At the Law Office of Amanda Wright, we are committed to helping hit-and-run victims navigate this difficult process and secure the justice they deserve.
Immediate Actions at the Scene
Your first priority after any accident is safety. The moments following a hit-and-run can be chaotic, but taking a few deliberate steps can make a significant difference. It is important to remain calm and avoid the impulse to pursue the fleeing driver, as this can put you and others in further danger.
Prioritize Safety
First, assess the situation and move to a safe location if you can. If your vehicle is still operable, pull it over to the side of the road, away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights to make your vehicle more visible to other drivers. If you are injured or your car cannot be moved, stay inside with your seatbelt fastened until help arrives.
Call 911
Once you are in a safe place, call 911 immediately. Report that you have been in a hit-and-run accident. Provide the dispatcher with your location and inform them if anyone is injured. A police officer will be dispatched to the scene to create an official report, which is a critical piece of evidence for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings. Emergency medical services will also be sent if there are injuries.
Gather Important Details
While waiting for the police, try to recall and write down as much information as possible about the vehicle that hit you. Every detail, no matter how small, can help law enforcement identify the driver. Note the following:
- Make, model, and color of the car
- License plate number (even a partial number is helpful)
- The direction the vehicle was heading
- Any distinguishing features, like bumper stickers, decals, or visible damage
If there were any witnesses, ask for their contact information. Their testimony can be invaluable. Also, look around for any nearby security cameras on buildings or traffic cameras that may have captured the incident.
Document Everything
Use your smartphone to document the scene thoroughly. Take photos and videos of the damage to your vehicle, your injuries, the road conditions, and any debris left behind by the other car. This visual evidence will be essential when filing your insurance claim and proving the extent of your damages.
Medical and Insurance Steps
After you have addressed the immediate aftermath at the scene, the next steps involve taking care of your health and formally reporting the accident.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it is vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible after the accident. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not present symptoms immediately. A medical professional can properly diagnose and treat any injuries, creating an official record of their connection to the accident. In Florida, you must receive medical care within 14 days of an accident to be eligible for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, so do not delay.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider promptly to report the hit-and-run. Provide them with the police report number and all the information you have gathered. Being proactive and transparent with your insurer is crucial for a smooth claims process. Be prepared to discuss your policy, particularly your PIP and any Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage you may have.
Legal Support for Hit-and-Run Victims
Navigating the legal and insurance complexities of a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming. Securing professional legal guidance is a key step in protecting your rights and ensuring you receive fair compensation.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
An experienced personal injury attorney can be your greatest advocate. A lawyer focused on hit-and-run accidents can help you understand your legal options, manage all communications with the insurance companies, and work to build a strong case on your behalf. They can also assist the police in their investigation to locate the at-fault driver.
At the Law Office of Amanda Wright, we are dedicated to supporting hit-and-run victims through every stage of this challenging journey.
Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage
In many hit-and-run cases, the at-fault driver is never found. This is where Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage becomes incredibly important. UM coverage is an optional part of your auto insurance policy in Florida that can cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages when the at-fault party is uninsured or cannot be identified.
An attorney can help you file a UM claim and negotiate with your own insurance company to ensure you get the full benefits you are entitled to.
Get the Help You Deserve
Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Florida is a frightening experience, but you do not have to face it alone. By taking swift action to ensure your safety, document the scene, seek medical care, and report the incident, you lay the groundwork for a successful recovery.
The legal team at the Law Office of Amanda Wright has extensive experience helping hit-and-run victims get the compensation they need to move forward. If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
