One in seven drivers in the United States do not have an insurance policy, according to a 2023 study by the Insurance Research Council.
Although Michigan leads other US states with the most significant decrease in uninsured motorists in 2022, its ranking remains high, with 19.6 percent of drivers hitting the road without insurance. This heightens the likelihood of being involved in a hit-and-run with an uninsured driver.
In a typical car accident, the drivers usually exchange contact and insurance information, working together to avoid potentially high costs. However, in a hit-and-run, the usual guidelines for the aftermath of a car accident may not be applicable, with the at-fault driver now on the run before they are identified. Knowing what to do in this situation is crucial in preventing the potentially devastating aftermath of a hit-and-run.
Assess the situation
The safety of every passenger in a vehicle is paramount. The driver must pull over immediately to assess the situation and ensure everyone is safe and uninjured.
Call 911
Even if there are no visible signs of injury, it is wise to seek medical attention immediately. Call 911 as soon as possible and report the incident to the authorities. Wait for the paramedics and law enforcement to arrive at the scene. An officer will likely investigate the scene and file an accident report, which is crucial for filing an insurance claim.
Gather evidence
It is essential to gather evidence at the scene. This can include taking photos of the vehicle from different angles to show the damage while also documenting skid marks or debris and anything else that might be relevant to the accident.
Looking for witnesses is also among the driver’s priorities, as they can be a great addition to the evidence required in filing an insurance claim.
Notify the insurance company
After filing a police report, drivers must contact their insurance company to report the hit-and-run and file a no-fault claim. Some insurance companies mandate that they be notified within 24 hours following the hit-and-run.
A car accident can be highly stressful, particularly if it is a hit-and-run. However, knowing how to react in the aftermath of such a shocking experience can significantly impact a driver’s ability to recover and seek proper compensation.
