Being injured in a car crash is stressful enough on its own, but it can be even more difficult when the driver responsible for the collision flees the scene, calling into question your ability to hold him or her accountable for your damages through a personal injury lawsuit. However, you do have options after a hit-and-run accident, and in many cases it is even possible to identify and locate the at-fault driver.
What Should I Do If I Am Injured in a Hit-and-Run?
Although the other driver may leave the scene after the accident, it is best for you to stay put and call 911. This can not only ensure that you get the immediate medical attention you need for your injuries, but also notify law enforcement so that they can come to the scene of the crash and create a report.
An officer may ask you and other witnesses for details regarding the circumstances of the accident, as well as any possible identifying features of the at-fault driver. Leaving the scene of a crash involving injury or death is a felony offense in Illinois, and law enforcement will often be motivated to investigate and apprehend the suspected offender. Any information you can provide regarding the appearance of the vehicle or the driver, the driver’s license plate number, or the direction in which the driver fled can help officers find the driver and notify you of their identity so that you can file a claim against them.
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