A hit-and-run accident can be devastating. If you are injured, you may worry you will never be able to track down the person responsible.
Immediate actions
First, prioritize the safety of everyone involved in the car crash. Prioritize your safety and that of any passengers. Move to a safe area, if possible. This also means to call 9-1-1. Report the accident to the police immediately.
If you have video evidence, tell them.
Medical attention
Always seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, it is important to be checked by a healthcare professional to rule out any injuries, and you are not qualified to make medical determinations for the others involved in the crash.
Handling dashcam footage
If you have a dashcam, this video evidence can be crucial to proving that you were not at fault, and to holding the at-fault person accountable.
First, the video must be secured. Transfer the video to a safe location to prevent it from being overwritten. Next, review the footage. Note key details, such as the time, date, vehicle description and any visible information about the driver and license plate.
Interaction with the police
Always ask for the police, even if the car crash is minor. The police report can be invaluable to an insurance adjuster, lawyer, jury, etc. When law enforcement arrives, provide them with a copy of the footage. Offer to supply the video evidence.
Share critical information, detailed vehicle information, like the license plate number, make and model of the vehicle and detailed driver characteristics.
Filing a police report
Ensure a thorough police report is filed. It will include your statement that details the incident and the existence of dashcam footage. It will also include witness statements, including accounts from any witnesses present. And, it will include evidence documentation and confirm the report acknowledges the dashcam footage.
Inform your insurance provider about the car accident. Provide them with the police report and the police officer’s information. Let them know you have dashcam footage and supply it when requested.
Keep in contact with the police to monitor the investigation’s progress. Your footage may be pivotal in identifying and locating the hit-and-run driver.
In Pennsylvania, fleeing is a serious crime. Dashcam footage can be critical in holding the responsible party accountable. According to state law, drivers must stop, provide necessary information and offer aid if needed. By following these steps, you help ensure that justice is served, and that the hit-and-run driver is held responsible for their actions.