0
0
When you head out on the road with your vehicle for a drive or work purposes, the last thing you expect is getting into a car accident. However, the unfortunate fact is that getting involved in an auto accident is going to remain a possibility for as long as irresponsible drivers continue to drive on the road. Things can become even more complex in the case of a hit-and-run.
If you were injured by someone else’s vehicle and they fled the car accident scene before you could get their information or call the police, you might have a case of hit-and-run. Most victims question whether they should follow the driver when this happens. The answer is always no. To know more, consult with a Columbia City auto accident lawyer today.
Should you follow the driver after a hit-and-run accident?
The first thing you should know about a hit-and-run accident is that it is illegal to leave the scene without reporting the authorities, even if the other driver has already fled. You should never follow the fleeing driver because of two reasons. First, you never know if you are ever going to catch them, and second, not having a police report will make it difficult for you to prove that there was a car accident.
On the other hand, staying at the accident scene can help you immensely. You can do various things to help the police locate the fleeing driver. For example, if you remember the details about the car and the license plate number, the police can easily locate it. The police can also request CCTV footage from nearby businesses and stores.
Moreover, following the fleeing driver could be dangerous for the following reasons:
- You might cause another accident trying to chase the fleeing car.
- The driver could become violent if you try to chase them, and it could risk your safety.
- The other driver could be under the influence of alcohol.
Seek immediate medical care.
Injuries from a hit-and-run accident are common, even when you do not feel any pain immediately after the accident. The shock from a car accident usually blocks the pain receptors in your brain, preventing you from realizing the true extent of your injuries. It is only after a few days or even weeks that you start experiencing the symptoms.
For this reason, it is critical to seek immediate medical care. See a doctor as soon as possible.
