Car accidents regularly happen in Maryland, but a hit-and-run can leave you especially dazed and shaken. It’s easy to be confused about what to do immediately after; however, there are steps to take after a hit-and-run accident.
Call 911
Call 911. The police can come to the scene and create an accident report. You can tell the responding officer any details you recall about the vehicle and the driver. Even having a few characters of the license plate number may garner some hits when police perform a search for the driver.
Don’t follow the other driver
Always remain at the scene. Resist the urge to follow the other driver to try to confront them. Even if you weren’t at fault, leaving the scene could cause you to face hit-and-run charges. It could also be dangerous to engage the other driver as you don’t know how they might react.
Look for witnesses
Look around the area for witnesses who might have seen the hit-and-run accident as it happened. Speak with them and get their names, contact information and statements about what happened. If the police eventually find the driver, witness statements can help your case against them.
Notify your insurance company
Notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run. If the driver isn’t located, you can file a claim for damages through your own policy. The earlier you inform your insurer about the accident, the more likely your claim will be approved.
Seek medical attention
Get medical attention even if you feel fine. It’s better to err on the side of caution and get evaluated. You might have internal injuries or delayed symptoms.
You can’t predict the actions of other drivers, but you can protect yourself after a hit-and-run. Contact the authorities, collect witness statements, and inform your insurance company as soon as possible.