Everything You Should Know About Hit-and-Run Accidents

• (Photo : https://diamondlaw.ca/hit-and-run-claims-ontario)

If you've sustained a personal injury, property damage, or both as a result of a hit-and-run accident, it usually presents a very challenging problem. Due to these types of collisions typically associated with the guilty party fleeing the scene, getting the culprit's personal information is nearly impossible, severely complicating the claims process.

According to the attorney's at https://diamondlaw.ca/hit-and-run-claims-ontario, it's crucial to report the collision to the police within twenty 24 hours. Failure to do so may end up in your insurance company believing that the accident was your fault.

So, how do you claim for a hit-and-run accident?

Hit-and-Run Accident Explained

A hit-and-run accident is a collective term that refers to a vehicle striking a pedestrian or cyclist or a collision between two cars and where the person responsible flees from the scene. You should note that anyone who leaves the incident's location will be liable to stiff penalties outlined by the Highway Traffic Act.

What to Do After Being the Victim of a Hit-and-Run Accident?

If you're the victim of a hit-and-run accident, there are a few things you need to do to help the police catch the perpetrator and to assist your lawyer in filing a successful claim. It includes:

• Remain calm and check if anyone is injured

• Immediately call 911 if someone is hurt

• Estimate both vehicles damage

• If the damages are less than $2000, report it to the collision closest to you

• Write down the location and date on which the incident took place. The more information you collect, the better

• Photograph the damages incurred on both vehicles (if possible) 

• Gather photographic evidence such as paint residue left by the other car on yours

• Ask around to find witnesses to the incident and gather information about the other vehicle and driver

• Record witness contact details

• Report the accident to the police or collision center 

• Report the incident to your insurance company

• Contact a personal injury lawyer who has experience dealing with hit-and-run accidents

What Happens If You Cause a Hit-and-Run Accident?

If you're responsible for a hit-and-run accident, you can prepare yourself for the following:

• Your insurer will classify you as a high-risk driver

• You'll face increased insurance rates and premiums

• Potential coverage cancellation

• Should you be responsible for the death or injury of another person, your insurer may choose not to cover your legal expenses as you've broken the law

• Your insurance record may be negatively affected for up to seven years

If you seriously injured or killed someone in a hit-and-run accident and were subsequently charged for the incident, it would be near impossible for you ever to get insurance again.

To Wrap Up

If you're the victim of a hit-and-run accident, deciding on the right course of action to take may be frustrating and scary. It's essential, though, to collect as much information about the incident as possible and immediately report it to both the police and your insurance company. However, it's inadvisable to try and pursue the case on your own.

Acquiring the services of an experienced personal injury lawyer is crucial to pursuing a successful claim. They'll smooth out the overall process by carefully scrutinizing every detail of your case. They'll also advise you on the best course of action to take and deal with the police and your insurer on your behalf.