Six Crucial Steps To Take After A Florida Hit And Run Accident

After being involved in a Florida hit and run and accident, you might feel helpless to do anything because the other driver is not available to answer for what happened. However, as much as feeling helpless after such an accident is understandable, it is crucial that you avoid this feeling and take the necessary steps towards protecting your health (and that of others) and legal rights. It is vital that you remember that just because the other driver has fled doesn’t mean you cannot pursue compensation, even if not from them. For example, if the driver cannot be located and you have uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, you can file a claim with your insurance company.

To ensure you protect your health (and that of others) and your legal rights, take the following steps after a Florida hit and run accident.

Avoid Chasing the Other Driver

No matter the temptation, you should avoid chasing after a driver who flees the scene of an accident. Chasing after a fleeing car can end up making the situation more dangerous for you and others. Also, if you pursue a fleeing vehicle, it can lead to road rage and lawbreaking, both of which are not excusable simply because you got into an accident.

Note Down Any Information About the Vehicle

Instead of chasing the fleeing vehicle, you should note down every detail you can about the car. You should, for example, note down the other car’s make, model, color, license plate number and the other driver’s appearance. If you saw any identifying marks on the other vehicle, such as dents, or stickers, ensure you note them down too. Additionally, noting which part of the other vehicle hit you can prove helpful, as it could indicate the part of the vehicle that sustained damage.

Call the Police

After a hit and run accident, you need to call the police and report the accident. The police report that will be written concerning your accident can help you after you initiate a claim. A police report can serve as evidence whether you pursue compensation from the driver who fled or your insurance company.

Seek Medical Help

After a hit and run accident, you should check yourself and others for injuries. Ensure that every injured individual gets medical help. Even if you think you have not sustained injuries, it is wise that you seek medical help. Some injuries have delayed symptoms and cannot be noticed until later after an accident. A doctor can identify such injuries or advise you on what symptoms you need to watch out for.

Gather Evidence

For example, after a hit and run accident, take photos of the accident scene and gather the information of as many witnesses as possible. Evidence is quite crucial in proving negligence after a hit and run accident.

Call Your Attorney

Ensure you call an attorney after being in a hit and run accident. You need an attorney to help you identify your legal options and fight for you.

Legal Help Is Available

If you have been in a hit and run accident in Florida, contact our Miami personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm to schedule a free consultation and have your case assessed. We can work with you to evaluate your legal options and recover the compensation you deserve.

The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Orlando, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Tampa, Ocala, Jacksonville, Bradenton, and Daytona Beach areas.

Resource:

m.flsenate.gov/statutes/627.727