What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Collision

 Posted on February 26, 2019 in Car Accident

On February 14, a woman was fatally injured in a motor vehicle collision on Interstate 70. The crash occurred outside of Glenwood Springs, and when law enforcement arrived at the scene, the vehicle that caused the fatality had fled. The woman killed was a pedestrian and was found fatally injured on the roadway when emergency personnel arrived. 

According to a recent study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, approximately 65 percent of people killed in hit-and-run collisions are either pedestrians or bicyclists. In the aftermath of a hit-and-run collision, it is important to know how to react. If you or a loved one are involved in a motor vehicle collision, seek experienced legal help as soon as possible. 

Acting Quickly After a Hit-and-Run 

An average of 682,000 hit-and-run collisions occur each year in the United States. Alarmingly, annual fatal hit-and-run accidents have increased by an average of 7 percent each year since 2009. If you are involved in a hit-and-run crash, it is important to act quickly. 

Seek Medical Attention

If you are involved in a motor vehicle collision, and any member of your party is hurt, it is crucial to contact medical personnel immediately. Even minor car accidents can come with serious injuries that may not be recognized at the time due to adrenaline. This includes traumatic brain injuries. Brain trauma can range from internal bleeding and skull fractures to minor concussions. If left untreated, concussions can result in life-altering health complications. 

Speak with Witnesses

In the aftermath of a hit-and-run wreck, it can be difficult to pursue compensation. If witnesses are present, record their contact information and request that they speak with law enforcement and your legal team. After a collision, it is common to feel flustered and helpless, but even one witness can be invaluable in ensuring the perpetrator is eventually caught. 

Compile Accident Information

To help you receive full compensation for injuries suffered and vehicle damages, your legal team will utilize all the information you can provide. Gathering info about the incident can make all the difference. If you were able to recognize the make, color, and/or model of the vehicle, it is possible local police can track down the perpetrator. Documenting a license plate number can all but guarantee justice will be served. If you are unable to gain details of the other vehicle, document all damages done to yours. 

Contact a Fort Collins Car Accident Lawyer 

Recovering from a car accident can be a difficult physical and emotional process. In most cases, car accidents are a product of driver negligence. Car crashes can result in expensive car damage, costly medical bills, and loss of work hours. You and your family should not have to pay for the reckless actions of another driver. To schedule a free consultation with a Larimer County personal injury attorney, call our team today at 970-225-2190. 

Sources:

https://www.gjsentinel.com/breaking/woman-killed-in-hit-and-run-in-glenwood-springs/article_64fdb536-315e-11e9-a6a4-9b8aabaca501.html

https://newsroom.aaa.com/2018/04/hit-run-deaths-hit-record-high/