Understandably, being injured in a car accident can be a traumatic experience that leaves you feeling unsettled. However, discovering that the other driver involved in the accident has fled the scene of the accident can be even more distressing. As a result, you may be left wondering what the next course of action should be. If you’ve found yourself in this unfortunate situation, keep reading to learn what to do after a hit-and-run accident to safeguard your legal rights and how a talented Birmingham Car Accident Lawyer can help you hold responsible parties accountable for their negligence. 

What is a Hit-and-Run Accident?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when the at-fault party flees the scene without providing any identification or aid to the other parties involved in the crash. There are many reasons why individuals feel inclined to flee the scene of a crash, whether they lack insurance coverage, are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or want to avoid liability. Regardless of the reasoning, leaving the scene of an accident without exchanging information or assessing injuries or property damage is illegal. Those involved in accidents in Alabama must immediately stop their vehicles, assess the situation and exchange information. If they fail to do so, it will be classified as a hit-and-run accident, and the driver who fled the scene will face serious consequences.

What Should I Do if I’m Injured in a Hit-and-Run Accident?

As mentioned above, leaving the accident scene before giving the other driver your information or assessing injuries and property damage is a crime. Therefore, you must remain at the accident scene. While this situation can be frustrating, it’s important to stay calm and follow these steps to protect your legal rights:

  • Assess your safety: After being involved in a hit-and-run accident, the first step you should take is to examine yourself for any injuries and asses your safety. From here, you should check on the safety of your passengers. The initial shock of an accident can cause victims to overlook specific injuries. However, this is a huge mistake. Regardless of how minor your injuries may seem, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial. This will ensure you receive the treatment and care you need. If you can safely exit your vehicle, you should check on the well-being of any other parties involved in the accident.
  • Report the accident: If you haven’t done so already, you must report the accident by contacting emergency services. Even if no one is injured, you must still report the accident by law. It’s essential to ask the responding officer for a copy of the report as it will contain crucial details for your legal claim. It would be best to inform your insurance provider of the accident.
  • Gather as much evidence as possible: If you’re physically capable, it’s essential to document everything you can remember about the other driver and their vehicle. This includes the other vehicle’s license plate number, make, model, color, or the direction they were headed. Take pictures of the accident scene, and if there were any witnesses, collect their contact information.
  • Retain the legal services of an experienced lawyer: The most crucial step you can take after a hit-and-run accident is enlisting the help of a qualified Birmingham car accident lawyer who can help investigate the circumstances of the crash and gather pertinent evidence to prove your claim.

Hit-and-run accidents can be devastating. At Alabama Personal Injury Lawyers, LLC, we are prepared to help you fight for the just compensation you need to get your life back on track.