A hit-and-run car accident can happen at any time, without warning. One minute, everything seems to be fine. The next minute, a car has crashed into you. While you’re still trying to process what just happened, the driver is leaving the scene.
Now what?
Fort Worth car accident attorney Coby L. Wooten knows that a hit-and-run accident can impact you physically and financially. But many people aren’t sure what to do when they are the victim of a hit-and-run driver. There are immediate steps you can take that can help protect your health, your safety, and your rights.
Try to identify the vehicle.
For example, was it a car or pickup truck? Note the color and any damage to the body. If you can, try to identify the make and model of the vehicle. If you can see the license plate number, write down the numbers as soon as you can. Also try to get a look at the driver and write down anything you noticed (gender, hair color, glasses, etc.).
Don’t chase the hit-and-run driver.
Following an accident, you may be angry that the driver is trying to get away and that is understandable. But chasing the driver is dangerous. Car chases at high speed put the safety of everyone on the road at risk. Even if you caught the driver, that person could be intoxicated, armed or violent. It’s not worth it.
Call the police.
Do this even if the damage seems minor and you don’t seem to be hurt. The police can investigate and gather information that may help them identify the vehicle and the driver. It also provides documentation of the accident for the insurance company.
Take notes.
As soon as you are able, write down everything you remember about the accident. Include the location, the sequence of events and all identifying information about the other vehicle that you can recall.
Collect information from witnesses.
Ask for their names and contact information. Even if they don’t think they saw anything important, witnesses may have information that is useful for the police and for your attorney.
Take pictures.
Get pictures of the accident scene. This helps provide additional documentation. Take pictures from several different angles. Include nearby buildings, street signs or traffic signals. Include any skid marks or road conditions that may have been a factor.
Call a lawyer.
An attorney experienced in hit-and-run accidents can review the details of your accident and give you legal advice. These cases can be complicated, but a lawyer can explain your best options for recovering financial compensation.
Attorney Wooten knows how frustrating these types of crashes can be. He knows the best way to approach your case and will explore all options to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been in a crash with a hit-and-run driver in Fort Worth or anywhere in Texas, it’s important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible. Contact Attorney Coby Wooten today to schedule a free consultation.