The last thing that any driver in Arizona wants to experience is a vehicle accident. Unfortunately, vehicle accidents are not uncommon in and around the Phoenix area. The aftermath of any car accident case can be complicated when it comes to securing compensation, but this is even more true in the event you are involved in a hit-and-run collision. Here, we want to discuss what you can do in the aftermath of a hit-and-run crash to help ensure you are treated fairly and that you receive the compensation you deserve. According to data available from the Arizona Department of Transportation, there were more than 15,000 total hit-and-run collisions across the state during the latest reporting year. Out of these incidents, 62 people lost their lives and 3,459 were injured.
Steps to Take Following a Hit-and-Run Crash in Phoenix
There are various steps you can take following a hit-and-run crash that can help strengthen your liability case. Immediately following a hit-and-run crash, you need to do the following:
- Call 911 and do not pursue a fleeing vehicle. If you are struck by another driver who flees the scene, do not chase after them. Get your car to a safe location if you can do so, and call 911 to report the incident. Let law enforcement do their job and track down the negligent driver.
- Seek medical care. Regardless of how minor or severe your injuries are, you need to seek medical care. Not only does this ensure that you are properly cared for, but this also establishes a link between the accident and your injuries.
- Gather evidence. If you can safely do so at the scene of the crash, use your cell phone or another camera to take photographs of any vehicle damage, injuries, debris, and anything else that may help prove what happened. You also need to get the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses to the crash, including other drivers or bystanders.
- Report the incident to your insurer. Your insurance carrier requires that you report any accident to them as soon as possible. Failing to do so in a timely manner could result in your claim being delayed or denied.
Is Uninsured Motorist Covered Required in Arizona?
In Arizona, insured and underinsured motorist coverage is not required in order for a driver to be legal on the roadway. However, it is strongly advised that all drivers carry this type of coverage. Uninsured motorist coverage will be extremely beneficial in the event you are struck by a hit-and-run driver.
Arizona uninsured motorist coverage can help cover the costs of your medical expenses in these cases. When you contact your insurance carrier to report the hit-and-run accident, you need to inquire about whether or not you have uninsured motorist coverage on your policy.
Should You Work With an Attorney for Your Case?
If you or somebody you care about has been injured in a hit-and-run collision, you may need to work with a skilled Phoenix car accident attorney to help secure compensation for your case. An attorney will be able to help you obtain evidence related to the incident, investigate the case to prove liability, and help ensure you are fairly compensated.
