What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Collision

 Posted on November 07,2018 in Hit-and-Run Accidents

Earlier this month, a man was charged in a hit-and-run crash that occurred last summer which ultimately resulted in the death of a 64-year-old man. The accident happened in Cook County’s Cragin neighborhood when the driver struck a pedestrian while traveling at almost twice the speed limit. The driver, who continued home after the accident, was caught largely due to surveillance footage and the cooperation of an eyewitness. 

This tragic accident is a reminder to Illinoisans that hit-and-run accidents do occur. Here are some important steps you should take if you are involved in a hit-and-run collision: 

Immediate Action 

In the aftermath of a hit-and-run crash, it is important to act as quickly as possible. Your ability to react to the accident, contact medical professionals and law enforcement, and gather information can make all the difference in ensuring your physical well-being and helping build a case against the perpetrator.  

Receive Necessary Medical Treatment

If you are in the vehicle with other passengers, and you are able, it is critically important to check on their condition so they can receive any medical attention they might need. No matter the perceived severity, you need an EMT to check out everyone involved, yourself included. If you and all passengers are not severely injured, it is time to collect as much evidence as possible. 

Gather Information About the Fleeing Vehicle

Once your safety and that of all passengers is confirmed, try to gather information about the vehicle that fled the scene. If you can identify the license plate number, it will be fairly easy for police to track down the driver. If not, your ability to recognize the color, make, and model can also help the investigation. 

Seek Out Witnesses

In the hit-and-run case mentioned above, witness recounting of the accident proved critical. In the aftermath of a hit-and-run, look around to see if there are witnesses present. If there are, ask them to stay and speak with police, or write down their contact information and give it to responding officers. Even a lone witness can be invaluable. 

Take Pictures

Following the previous steps, collect visual evidence of the accident. Taking pictures of the scene and your vehicle can help investigators and your insurance company. Photos of paint left on your car or debris from the other vehicle can aid police throughout the investigation. 

Contact a Cook County Personal Injury Attorney 

If you or a loved one were injured in a hit-and-run collision, the next step is to contact a proven team of legal representatives. At Salvi and Maher, L.L.C., our personal injury attorneys have extensive experience helping those involved in collisions receive the compensation they deserve. To set up a free consultation with a Lake County motor vehicle accident lawyer, call us at 847-662-3303.

Sources

https://www.dmv.org/tips-for-handling-a-hit-and-run-driver-claim.php

https://chicago.suntimes.com/news/man-charged-with-fatal-hit-and-run-in-cragin/