Another driver made a mistake, and you ended up in a wreck. Before you could even gather your wits about you, however, the other driver took off. You’ve just become the victim of a hit-and-run driver.
What you do next, especially if you’re injured can be critically important for your future. Here’s what you need to know:
You should still do exactly what you would do in any other wreck
Your health and well-being come first, so do exactly what you’d do if the driver had stayed. This means:
- ● Call 911. Even if you don’t think you’re hurt, you need to call the police. For one thing, the other driver committed a crime by leaving the scene of the accident. For another thing, you want the police to make a record of any witnesses or other evidence that might eventually identify the other driver. Finally, you want the police there to document the fact that the at-fault driver fled so that you can provide proof to your own insurance company.
- ● Get medical aid. Again, even if you don’t feel like you’re badly hurt, you really should be evaluated by a medical professional. A small bump on the head could actually turn out to be a serious concussion, and that pain in your back or chest could be a sign of internal injuries. Prompt medical treatment also helps concretely tie your injuries to the wreck.
- ● Call your insurance company. There’s every possibility that your car insurance company will have to pay for your medical care related to the wreck and then try to recoup the money from the other driver’s insurance through subrogation – if and when they are located.
Since Tennessee is an at-fault state, the at-fault driver is legally liable for your losses, but they may or may not be found. In any case, you may have recourse through your own uninsured motorist coverage or any umbrella insurance policy you hold. Because this situation may require you to make a claim against your own insurance company for fair compensation for your injuries and other losses, experienced legal guidance is necessary to protect your rights.