A hit-and-run accident can be a traumatic and distressing experience. Whether you were the victim or a witness, it's crucial to react immediately and take the appropriate steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
According to data from the Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety, there were 231 hit-and-run accidents in Decatur in 2019. That resulted in 110 injuries and 1 fatality. This represents a slight increase from the previous year, highlighting the need for continued efforts to reduce the incidence of hit-and-run accidents.
Hiring a Decatur car accident lawyer from a trusted law firm becomes a priority if you have been in such an accident. This article will explore how to react immediately after a hit-and-run incident.
The first thing you should do after a hit-and-run accident is to call 911. The 911 dispatcher will send emergency services to the scene and provide instructions on how to proceed.
Make sure you give them as much information as possible about the accident. Include the location, the make and model of the car that hit you, and any injuries that you or others may sustain.
After calling 911, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, calm them and wait for the emergency services to arrive. If there are no injuries, move to a safe location and wait for the police to arrive.
If possible, try to get as much information about the car that hit you as you can. This includes the license plate number, make and model of the car, and any distinguishing features, such as a dent or scratch. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information, as they may be able to provide valuable information to the police.
If you have a camera or a smartphone, take pictures of the accident scene. This should include any damage to your car and the location of the accident. These pictures can be evidence if you file a claim with your insurance company. Or, if you need to hire a car accident attorney in Decatur.
Even if the other driver is unknown, you should contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. They will be able to help you understand your coverage and provide guidance on how to proceed.
It's important to remember that in a hit-and-run accident, you may be able to recover damages from your own insurance company. Even, if you have uninsured motorist coverage.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a hit-and-run accident, it may be in your best interest to hire a car accident lawyer near you.
A qualified attorney can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses. They can also assist with negotiating with insurance companies and filing a lawsuit if necessary.
In addition to the 231 hit-and-run accidents in Decatur in 2019, there were a total of 2,174 accidents in the city that year. This means that hit-and-run accidents accounted for just over 10% of all accidents in Decatur in 2019.
Remember to call 911, check for injuries, and get in touch with a Decatur car accident lawyer as soon as possible. A hit-and-run accident can be a scary and confusing experience. But, it's important to react quickly and take the appropriate steps to protect yourself and the others involved.
