San Bernardino is a city located in California, United States. It has a rich and complex history. In 1810, Spanish missionaries named the region after Saint Bernardino of Siena, which appears in the city’s name.
It is bad enough to be in a car accident, but when the other driver leaves the scene, it can feel like too much. You may be hurt and confused after a hit-and-run.
The good news is that there are clear things you can do to keep yourself safe and make your case stronger. If you do not know where to go, a trusted San Bernardino law firm can help you with your legal questions.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Safe
After an accident, your safety should always come first. If your car is in a dangerous place, try to move it to the side of the road. Turn on your hazard lights and look for injuries to yourself and any passengers. Do not ignore medical help just because you feel fine.
Step 2: Call the Police Right Away
It is important to tell the police about a hit-and-run. A police report makes an official record of what happened, which will be beneficial for filing an insurance claim or taking legal action. Tell the police as much as you can about the other car, like its colour, make, model, or part of its license plate.
Step 3: Collect Proof at the Scene
You can still get important evidence even if the other driver has left. Take pictures of your car, the road, the skid marks, the debris, and any injuries you can see. If there are witnesses nearby, please collect their names, phone numbers, and statements. Their stories can help your case and provide you with information you might have missed.
Step 4: Get Medical Help
Even if your injuries do not seem serious, do not skip this step. Some injuries, like concussions or injuries inside the body, may not show up right away. Going to the doctor also makes a medical record that links your injuries directly to the accident, which is important for your insurance claim.
Step 5: Tell Your Insurance Company
Most insurance policies say you have to report accidents right away. Inform them about your involvement in a hit-and-run incident and provide them with the police report as soon as you receive it. Your uninsured motorist coverage may help pay for damages and medical bills, depending on your policy.
Step 6: Talk to a Lawyer
After a hit-and-run, talking to your insurance company can be hard. They might try to downplay your claim or refuse to cover it at all. That is why it is so important to talk to a lawyer. A lawyer can look over your case, talk to insurance companies, and, if necessary, help you file a lawsuit to get the money you deserve.
Key Takeaways
- You can protect your rights and improve your chances of getting justice by doing the right things.
- Things like making sure you are safe, taking pictures of the scene, getting medical help, and getting legal help.
- If you ever find yourself in this situation, remember that a reputable law firm in San Bernardino can help you hold the driver who caused the accident responsible.