Getting answers after a hit-and-run accident

After a car accident, victims often are left with more questions than answers.

This can be especially true when the person responsible for the crash flees the scene. In these upsetting situations, answers can be hard to come by unless you know where to look.

Why do drivers flee the scene?

One of the first questions crash victims have is why someone would leave the scene of an accident. While there are some cases when a person does not know whether he or she must stop, most hit-and-run drivers flee because they know they have done something wrong and do not want to take responsibility. In these cases, a driver may have been:

• Intoxicated
• Under the influence of drugs
• Driving without a license
• Driving without insurance
• Violating terms of probation
• Driving recklessly
• Engaged in criminal activity

To determine if these or other reasons are behind a specific accident, you must track down the other driver.

How can I find the other driver?

Identifying a hit-and-run driver is complicated. In some cases, it seems impossible. However, there are several ways to find answers.

Witnesses can be a good place to start. People in the area, other drivers and people in the car can all retain pieces of information about the other driver and his or her vehicle. Even seemingly small details can provide critical clues.

Debris left at the scene can also be helpful. In some cases, the license plate or a part of the vehicle left behind can help narrow down potential suspects.

Video surveillance can also be highly valuable. Other drivers may have had dash cams on; property owners in the vicinity may have video cameras that captured the accident; individuals on the scene may have recorded the crash on their phones.

These are just some of the places to look to identify a hit-and-run driver.

What legal options do I have?

After a hit-and-run crash, parties can file a claim with their insurance. However, this may be inadequate. An insurance claim does not hold the responsible party accountable, and a settlement may not reflect the full extent of your injuries. To get answers and pursue damages you deserve, you can consult an attorney.

Category:

• Car Accidents