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What to do after a hit-and-run accident

Apr 13, 2018 | Blog, Car Accidents, Car and Truck Accidents

Home » What to do after a hit-and-run accident

Car Accident Attorney, St Clair County, ILOn Illinois roadways, crashes happen on a daily basis. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, there were 858 crashes per day over the course of a single year. That amounts to 313,316 traffic accidents in one year. In that same time frame, almost three people were killed a day in car collisions and over 10 people were injured every hour.

Motor vehicle accidents do not have to include injuries and fatalities to cause upheaval. No matter the circumstance, these events can cause a lot of stress for everyone involved. If one of the drivers does not stick around after the crash, the other person may be at a loss for what to do next.

On Illinois roadways, crashes happen on a daily basis. According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, there were 858 crashes per day over the course of a single year. That amounts to 313,316 traffic accidents in one year. In that same time frame, almost three people were killed a day in car collisions and over 10 people were injured every hour.

Motor vehicle accidents do not have to include injuries and fatalities to cause upheaval. No matter the circumstance, these events can cause a lot of stress for everyone involved. If one of the drivers does not stick around after the crash, the other person may be at a loss for what to do next.

Record the details

While it might be hard for a person recently involved in an accident to keep his or her head, it is a good idea to start gathering information right after the incident if possible. Of course, recording details may have to wait if the crash caused serious injuries. If no serious injuries were sustained, it may be a good idea to write down certain details after a hit-and-run crash, including the following:

• A description of the vehicle’s make, model, year and color
• The license plate number
• An account of which way the driver went after the crash
• The time and location of the accident

Because accidents happen so quickly, those actually involved in the crash may have trouble coming up with some of this information. Bystanders may be able to help come up with some of the details of the crash. If there were any witnesses to the accident, drivers or car passengers should get their contact information. If possible, the witnesses should also talk with insurance claims officers and emergency responders to help speed up the recovery process.

Get some help

Another important step after any type of accident is getting in touch with those who can help. Depending on the severity of the crash, this can include an auto insurance provider, emergency responders and tow service providers. Talking with insurance providers is beneficial because it can help the driver understand his or her financial options. Emergency responders can help fill out official reports, look for the run-away driver and speed up the claims process. Tow truck operators can help take the vehicle to a repair shop if needed.

Illinois drivers never know when they will be involved in an accident nor how the crash will turn out. Whether a crash involved a hit-and-run driver, serious injuries or death, it may be helpful to work with an attorney who is familiar with this type of auto accident case.

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