Dealing with a Hit and Run

In the blink of an eye, a hit and run incident can leave you shocked, confused, and uncertain about the next steps. Dealing with a hit and run situation in Oklahoma requires a calm and systematic approach to ensure that your rights are protected and the responsible party is held accountable. In this guide, we will walk you through the essential steps to take after a hit and run incident, offering guidance on how to handle the situation and providing valuable insights.

Ensure Safety and Report the Incident

The first priority after a hit and run incident is safety. If you are in a moving vehicle, try to safely pull over to the side of the road to avoid further accidents. If possible, turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries and seek medical attention if necessary.

Contact the Police

After ensuring your safety, immediately contact local law enforcement to report the hit and run incident. Provide them with as much information as possible, such as the location, description of the other vehicle involved, and any visible damages. This information will be crucial for the investigation.

Document the Scene

While waiting for law enforcement to arrive, gather as much evidence as you can. Take photos of the scene, including your vehicle’s damage, any debris, and skid marks. These visual records can be valuable when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.

Gather Information and Witnesses

Collect Vehicle Details

Your adrenaline should be kicking in, but remember it’s important to react thoughtfully and quickly. If possible, try to remember and note down details about the other vehicle like the make, model, color, license plate number, or any distinguishing features. Even a partial license plate or description of the vehicle can be helpful later when trying to find the responsible individual. Using your phone to collect evidence can serve as real-time documentation and can be shared with your attorney for their expert analysis.

Seek Witnesses

Look around for any witnesses who might have seen the accident. Their statements can provide additional clarity to the incident and help corroborate your account. Ask for their contact information in case it’s needed later for the investigation or legal proceedings.

Contact Your Insurance Company

As soon as you can, contact your insurance company to report the hit and run incident. Provide them with all the relevant information you have gathered, including the details of the accident, photos, and any witness statements. This will start the claims process and help you get the compensation you deserve.

Your insurance company will likely conduct its own investigation into the hit and run incident. Cooperate fully with their requests for information and documentation. The evidence you have collected can assist their efforts to determine the facts of the case.

Seek Legal Assistance

Address Potential Injuries

In some hit and run incidents, injuries may not be immediately apparent. It’s essential to seek medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries, such as brain injuries, might have delayed symptoms.

Different types of injuries can occur that can induce brain damage. According to the Oklahoma City brain injury lawyers at Dan Davis Law, potential injuries include open head injuries, concussions, depressed skull fractures, and more. If left untreated, serious or even catastrophic damage can jeopardize your life forever.

It’s best to stay proactive and look out for common symptoms like:

• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Headaches
• Memory loss
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Cognitive challenges
• Behavioral changes

Should you decide to pursue legal action against the responsible party, contact an attorney to help you build a strong case. Experts will use the evidence you’ve collected, in addition to their own investigative resources, to establish a compelling argument for your claim.

Legal Recourse and Compensation

With proper legal counsel, you can pursue legal recourse to obtain compensation for medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and more. By seeking justice through legal channels, you hold the hit and run driver accountable for their actions.

Experiencing a hit and run incident can be traumatic, but knowing the proper steps to take can make all the difference. From ensuring safety and reporting the incident to seeking legal assistance, each step is crucial in protecting your rights and pursuing justice. Remember, law firms are here to support you through the process, providing expert guidance and a strong legal voice in your corner. By following these steps and seeking appropriate help, you can navigate the aftermath of a hit and run incident in Oklahoma with confidence and resilience.