If you were on your way to work or shopping and had your vehicle struck by a driver who failed to stop at the scene, you immediately became the victim of a hit-and-run driver. While it may be tempting to pursue the other driver to get them to stop, that is actually the last thing you should do in this situation. Instead, when involved in a Phoenix hit-and-run, take these steps immediately.
Remain at the Scene
Rather than pursue the other driver, remain at the accident scene and call 9-1-1 to make sure police and rescue personnel arrive as fast as possible. Once police arrive, give them details about the accident, as well as an accurate description of the vehicle that struck you, including its license plate number if possible.
Get Medical Treatment
Once rescue personnel arrive at your accident scene, always let them examine you for possible injuries. Even if you don’t think you were hurt in the accident, don’t take any chances. Along with various injuries not displaying symptoms until hours later, failing to get medical treatment will let an insurance company claim you were not hurt in the accident.
Document Your Accident
If you can do so safely, use your cell phone to take pictures of the accident scene. Always take pictures of the damage your vehicle sustained, visible injuries you suffered, other property damaged in the accident, and anything else that may be important. Once you have these pictures, turn them over to your personal injury attorney at your initial consultation.
Choose Your Words Carefully
Even if it is clear you were struck by a hit-and-run driver, police and insurance companies can still turn the tide against you and claim you were responsible for the accident. In fact, all it will take is you saying something as simple as “I’m sorry” to police or insurance company personnel to have them assuming you admitted fault for the accident.
To ensure you get maximum compensation after being struck by a hit-and-run driver in Phoenix, discuss your accident in more detail by consulting immediately with Gary Phillips Accident Law.
