What Should I Do When A Hit And Run Accident Happens?

Car accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, leaving drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and others on the road suffering serious, potentially life-threatening personal injuries. You have the right to hold at-fault drivers accountable for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs you incur as a result, but what do you do when they leave the scene? Find out what to do if a hit and run car accident in Aiken happens to protect your rights to compensation.

Common Reasons Behind Hit and Run Car Accidents

A recent hit and run car accident in nearby Saluda County recently claimed the life of a moped driver. According to a May 6, 2021 WJBF News report, it happened just before 10:30 p.m. on U.S. Highway 1 near Topaz Road, just two miles west of Batesburg. South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) reports that a 27-year-old woman driving a Dodge Caravan hit the moped driver from behind, causing it to run off the road and crash. Despite wearing a helmet, the victim suffered severe injuries and died at the scene.

The at-fault driver turned herself in several hours later and was charged with Leaving the Scene of a Collision Involving Death. What commonly causes a driver to flee the scene?

● Panic: Shock and panic can cause a driver not to stop. As in the above case, they often turn themselves in just a short while later.

● Attempt to evade responsibility: Hit and run drivers may attempt to avoid personal responsibility for the crash and legal liability for injuries that result.

● Evading police: Drivers may leave the scene if they are under the influence, engaged in other illegal activities, or have outstanding warrants.

What To Do If A Hit And Run Car Accident Happens?

The American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that in South Carolina, more than 40 fatal car accidents involving hit and run drivers happen each year while hundreds of other victims suffer serious personal injuries. What steps should you take if it happens to you?

● Try to get a description of the vehicle or a license plate number;

● Notify the police immediately;

● Make note of any witnesses at the scene;

● Get medical care as soon as possible, regardless of the severity of your injuries;

● Contact our experienced Aiken car accident attorney.

We can take the swift actions needed to locate the driver so they can be held responsible. This includes working with law enforcement, reviewing nearby surveillance tapes, interviewing witnesses, soliciting tips from the general public, and talking to local repair shops that the driver may have visited.

Reach Out To Our Aiken, SC Car Accident Attorney

At the Surasky Law Firm, our Aiken car accident attorney can help you identify hit and run drivers so that they can be held accountable for their actions, but it is important to act quickly. Give us a call or contact our office online and request a consultation today.