When two or more cars collide with each other on the road, the law requires all of them to stop at the scene until law enforcement arrives. Accidents can be stressful but even more devastating when the liable party flees, making it a hit-and-run. The fleeing party usually faces harsh criminal penalties, including fines and prison time.
When you see the other driver run away, do not follow them. Remain at the scene and wait for the police. You may also face legal repercussions if you leave the scene. To protect your rights and recover your damages, speak to a personal injury attorney in Ontario today.
The best steps to take after a hit and run
- Do not follow the car, and call the police.
It can be tempting to want to leave the accident scene and follow the fleeing car, but it will only worsen the situation. You are required by the law to remain at the scene at all costs until law enforcement arrives. The situation can also become dangerous, and you could end up in another car accident.
Call the police, as you need a police report to file the insurance claim. The sooner the police get to the scene, the quicker they can start their search for the fled driver.
- Speak to witnesses.
Speak to the people around the accident scene to see if they have any information about the fleeing car. The people who saw your collision may have noticed the car’s model, color, number plate, or any information. Additionally, they may have seen details about the accident from a different perspective that you may be unaware of.
You require this information to give to your attorney later, who will then use these testimonies to build your case.
- Notify your insurance company.
One of the first things you should do after a hit-and-run car accident in Ontario is to notify your insurance company about it. You need to do this within 24 hours of the accident. The insurance adjuster will want to know the exact details, so make sure you note down everything you remember. Your memory of the accident may not be as fresh after a few hours. Therefore, making notes of the accident as soon as possible is recommended.
- Get the police report.
After the police create a report of the accident, you need to obtain a copy of that for your insurance claim. Ask the officer when the report will be ready so you or your attorney can collect it from the police station. It is recommended to take down their names and badge numbers.