Steps to Take Following a Cleveland Hit-and-Run Accident

Tragedy struck this holiday season as two Cleveland hit-and-run accidents left a local woman dead and at least two people injured on Christmas. Police are believed to have promising leads for identifying both of the responsible hit/skip drivers, but this does not change the fact that once again local car accident victims and their families must now cope with devastating injury and loss because of the actions of negligent—and likely criminal—drivers.

Too many Cleveland motorists hears stories of hit-and-run accidents and think that it will not happen to them. But hit/skip accidents are a relatively common occurrence in Cleveland, and the results are frequently deadly. Local motorists, passengers, bicyclists, and pedestrians are urged to be prepared for a hit/skip accident and know what steps to take following a crash.

Call 911 for Medical Care & Police for Non-Emergency Assistance

Above all, the safety of everyone involved is the number one concern following any accident. In a hit/skip incident that leaves a struck vehicle operational, there is often a desire to follow after the offending driver in the name of justice. However, motorists are advised to stop following an automobile crash and determine the extent of any injuries suffered. Many injuries that are not immediately apparent, such as neck, back, and some head injuries, require prompt medical treatment.

Gather as Much Information as Possible

Any detail about the offending vehicle may help police identify the negligent driver responsible, but details can often blur or be forgotten following a crash. Write down, voice record, or simply tell the others present in the vehicle any details that were observed so that those details are not lost in the hectic aftermath of the crash.

Ask Witnesses to Remain at the Scene to Give a Statement to Police

When witnesses to the accident stop to check on your well-being, they often do not understand that they can be of great assistance in helping to identify a hit-and-run driver. Particularly in situations where you appear to be relatively unscathed, some witnesses may decide that they can leave the scene to the police. Let them know their role in bringing the negligent driver to justice by asking them to stay and assist police in ascertaining all of the relevant facts.

Call a Cleveland Car Accident Attorney

Hit-and-run accidents pose certain challenges for a personal injury claim that are not present in other car accident cases. However, whether or not the fleeing driver is identified, car accident victims may be able to receive compensation for their injuries. The negligent driver, the victim’s own insurance, or a liable third party may be legally obligated to pay for some or all of an accident victim’s damages.

If you or a loved one were injured in a hit-and-run accident, call a Cleveland car accident attorney at Lowe Scott Fisher Co., LPA to discuss your claim.