Leaving the scene of a San Antonio accident without notifying authorities or completing the proper procedures is a serious offense. If you are hit by a vehicle that flees the scene, make sure you write down everything you can about the other vehicle. Include the details of the accident, what you saw, as well as a description of the other driver and vehicle.
Then, call the authorities, even if you don’t feel like you’re hurt. Describe the vehicle that hit you to the 911 dispatcher in as much detail as you can possibly give. You should also talk to any witnesses or drivers of other vehicles involved in the accident. Collect statements, names, and contact information in case these witnesses leave before the police arrive.
File a Police Report
Once the police arrive and any medical emergencies are handled, the police begin an investigation of the scene and the accident. They will interview you, the witnesses, and other drivers in the area in order to create an official police report. They’ll also visit nearby homes and businesses to see if they have security cameras available. Surveillance footage can often be the key to finding a hit-and-run driver.
The police will then launch an official investigation, using all their resources, databases, and tools available to locate the driver who fled.
File a Claim with Your Insurance
Regardless of whether the driver is located, your next step is to call your insurance provider with all of the details and information you have regarding the accident. Your insurance company may have resources to help investigate the other driver as well. Ideally, the identity of the person who hit you or your property is found, and you can make a claim against their liability coverage. However, there are many kinds of car insurance coverage available to Texas drivers, so you may be covered even in the case the negligent party is not found.
The coverages that protect you after being the victim of a hit-and-run are not required by law, but they will apply if you’ve chosen to add them to your insurance policy. Filing a claim with your insurance gives you multiple options regardless of the outcome of a police investigation, and your rates should not increase since you were not at fault.
Call Our Attorneys for a Free Consultation
As the victim of a hit and run, you do have options. You should start by seeking legal counsel to make sure you understand them all. At Hilley & Solis Law Office, we have experience with hit and run cases and knowledge that will enable you to seek the compensation you deserve, whether the driver is located or not. Call 210-446-5000 for a free consultation today.
