Preparing for a hit and run

Whether you cause an auto accident or are the victim of one, the first rule is to stay on the scene in a safe location. Disregarding to pull over and exchange information after a crash can mean fines, loss of license, and even jail time.

You can help avoid those penalties by stopping and remaining at the scene in a location where it is safe. When you are on the receiving end of a hit-and-run accident, here’s what you should do.

Record the Most Important Info

If the driver that struck your car leaves the scene, gather as much information as you can to relay to the police. The basics:

License plate number

Make and model of car

Color of car

Approximate year of car

Time and location of the accident

Contact information of potential witnesses

The direction the driver headed

Pictures of the scene and damage to your car

Report the Incident to Police

Call the police as soon as imaginable and file an accident report. Give them:

Names of possible witnesses

The exact location of the accident

The direction the driver was heading

Contact Your Insurance Company

Your insurance company will begin the claims process. Depending upon your insurance coverage, they can help with towing and finding a rental car. If you can identify the driver that hit you and they’re insured, you can likely get their car insurance information from your insurance company and file a claim with the other driver’s company.

In a hit-and-run scenario, having the minimum car insurance coverage may not offer the protection you need. To avoid being held financially responsible for potential costs, consider uninsured motorist insurance. This coverage may protect you against drivers who don’t have liability insurance or the money to pay for injuries and damages they cause.

If you have questions regarding your coverage, feel free to call your IPA agent- 480-981-6338