It’s no secret that car accidents are scary. They can result in damages to your vehicle as well as significant injuries to you or your passengers. The insurance of the individual at fault generally helps to pay for these damages. However, what happens when you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident and the liable party cannot be identified or located?
Under Louisiana law, an accident is considered a hit-and-run when the driver of a vehicle intentionally fails to stop their vehicle at the scene of the accident, fails to give his or her identity, and fails to render reasonable aid. Without the identity of the other driver, it can be difficult to recover damages. Fortunately, though, there may still be options so we’ve put together this guide detailing what you should do after a hit-and-run accident in Baton Rouge.
1. Call for Help
The first thing that you should do after being involved in a hit-and-run accident is get yourself to a safe place (if possible) and call 911. Once you call emergency services, an ambulance will be dispatched to you to ensure that you are okay. Police will also come to the scene to establish an accident report.
Accident reports can be very helpful, especially in hit-and-run cases, because they help to establish the specifics of the accident and subsequently the likely liability. This is determined through things such as witness statements. Once these individuals have left it is extremely difficult to gather this evidence.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Injuries are quite common after a car accident. While many of them are apparent right away, some are less obvious and could go undetected until it is too late. Often the depth and severity of an injury may not be discoverable until you seek medical treatment. By seeking medical attention as soon as possible, not only will you be able to ensure that you are not suffering from any internal injuries, but you will also be provided with a medical record to support your future claims.
3. Call Your Insurance Company
It is important that you contact your auto insurance company as soon as possible. Often your policy allows for only a short reporting period such as one-to-two days post-crash. Not only are you required to report your accident, but also it may aid in your compensation from your own policy. However, minimal insurance often fails to provide you with the necessary protection in a hit-and-run scenario. It is a good idea to consider purchasing an uninsured motorist policy, which can help to protect you against drivers who do not have insurance or who fail to pay.
4. Call an Experienced Attorney
The consequences of hit-and-run accidents can be extensive. You’re left to pay for car repairs and medical bills without having anyone to hold responsible. That’s why it is so important to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced attorney to work on your behalf and help you recover the maximum amount of compensation.
The Bat Guys Are Here to Help
At Gauthier Amedee, our team of experienced car accident attorneys fights hard to protect your rights. We know how stressful car accidents can be, and in the case of a hit-and-run that stress is even worse. We have years of experience fighting for the rights of injured people in Louisiana, and we’ll fight for you, too.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a hit-and-run accident, contact Gauthier Amedee today at 225-647-1700 or fill out our online form to get your free case review.
