What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident - Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

 A hit-and-run accident is a terrible situation. Unlike other types of accidents, in a hit-and-run, the at-fault driver flees the scene of the accident, leaving the victim to deal with everything. These accidents are actually more common than most people think, and the victim of a hit-and-run accident often feels overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. 

Understanding the steps to take following a hit-and-run car accident is imperative. Acting quickly will help to protect your rights, and it can help identify the driver, even if they failed to stay on scene. 

Ensure Everyone is Safe and Call for Medical Help Following a Hit and Run Accident

The first priority following any accident is to make sure everyone is safe. The victim of a hit and run should check themselves and passengers for injuries, and if possible, move to a place that is away from traffic. 

Next, it's imperative to call 911 and report the accident to the police. It's also best to have EMTs come to the scene, too, even if there doesn't seem to be any injuries or injuries are minor, reports of these injuries should be made. Also, some injuries don't appear until hours or even days after the accident. A medical professional can detect these hidden injuries. 

Call the Police Immediately After a Hit and Run Accident

Why is it so important to call the police when involved in a hit-and-run? It's because you want to have an official accident report. Iowa law also requires drivers to remain on scene, and if someone flees, it's a very serious crime. Having the police on scene means that they will document the accident, and they will help victims of hit-and-run accidents have the information they need to file an accident claim. Police will also start an investigation into finding the hit-and-run driver.

The police report is considered an official record, which will be imperative when you file a claim with your auto insurance. Without this, it can be difficult to prove that the accident occurred and that the damage to your vehicle and any injuries were caused by the accident. 

Gather as Much Information as Possible About the Car Accident Scene

Even if the at-fault driver fled the scene, a victim should try to gather evidence from the scene of an accident. Every piece of information gathered from the scene can help locate the driver who ran. Details that can help include: 

• License plate number (even partial information can help)

• Vehicle make, model, and color

• Distinguishing features such as bumper stickers, dents, or decals

• The direction the driver fled

• Time, location, and weather conditions

If there are witnesses who saw the crash, or there was a passenger in the victim's car, asking them to provide statements or contact information can strengthen the case. Many times, bystanders see more than the victims and can supply crucial details that top-rated car accident lawyers in Des Moines may use to protect your legal rights. 

Document the Scene Following a Hit-and-Run Accident

Another thing to do is to take photos and videos of the scene. This is evidence that can help you file your insurance claim when involved in a hit-and-run accident. It will also help when you consult with your lawyer for what to do after a minor car accident. Things like vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, and traffic signals may all support a claim. A victim should also take photos and videos of any injuries. 

Seek Medical Attention Before You Leave the Scene

As mentioned, even if you don't feel like you have injuries, when the police arrive, and they ask if you want medical attention, you should say yes. If you don't, at a minimum, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. It's important to be seen by a doctor following a collision for the following reasons: 

• They protect the health of the victim

• They connect the injuries to the accident

Without this documentation, when you make a claim against your insurance coverage, the insurance company may argue that the injuries were not caused by the accident. 

Notify the Insurance Company About the Auto Accident

Speaking of insurance, a victim of a hit-and-run should contact their personal insurance company as soon as possible. Many people ask, "Will my insurance cover an accident like this?" If you have uninsured motorist protection, it will cover medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, though you will need to pay a deductible. 

Keep in mind that laws vary by state, and when you are speaking to your insurance provider, you should only stick to the facts of the case, including the date, time, location, and any details you know about the driver. Even a description of the driver can help. However, you shouldn't speculate or make assumptions...even to your own insurance company. It's best to leave this to your lawyer. 

Track All Accident-Related Costs 

Recovering from a hit-and-run accident can create a wide range of financial burdens. Victims may face medical expenses, physical therapy, repair bills, rental car fees, and missed income. Keeping detailed records of all accident-related expenses helps ensure that no losses are overlooked when seeking compensation.

Maintaining a journal of pain levels, mobility issues, or emotional struggles can also support a claim for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

Avoid Mistakes That Could Harm the Claim and Stop Fair Compensation

Certain mistakes can make it harder to recover compensation after a hit-and-run accident. Common pitfalls include:

• Waiting too long to file a police report

• Failing to seek medical care immediately

• Posting details or photos about the accident on social media

• Accepting a quick settlement without understanding the full costs of recovery

By avoiding these errors, victims increase their chances of receiving fair compensation for their losses.

Work with a Personal Injury Attorney in Des Moines to Get the Compensation You Deserve

A hit-and-run accident often creates additional challenges compared to other crashes. The absence of the at-fault driver can leave victims unsure of how to pay their bills or repair their vehicle. An experienced personal injury attorney can step in to handle the complex legal and insurance issues. They can consult on what to do after a rear-end car accident as well.

An attorney can:

• Work with law enforcement to obtain accident reports and investigate the driver

• Review insurance policies to identify available coverage

• Handle negotiations with the insurance company

• Pursue additional legal action if the driver is located

Local attorneys in Des Moines understand Iowa’s insurance laws and legal procedures, providing victims with an advantage when pursuing compensation. Tom Fowler Law, for example, has experience representing hit-and-run victims and ensuring that their rights are protected. Contact the firm today about your accident case. Free consultations are available.