Whether it’s a small-time fender-bender or a four-car pile-up, almost everyone finds themselves dealing with the aftermath of a car accident at some point in their lives. Sometimes, though, you’re left dealing with it alone, because the other driver took off without leaving any contact information. While it is a felony to leave the scene of an accident, some drivers still do it.
When that happens, you need a hit-and-run accident lawyer in St. Louis, MO, who knows how to get results. You need The Cagle Law Firm.
There are many reasons why a driver might leave the scene of an accident—lack of insurance, a criminal record, inebriation—but none of them are acceptable reasons. Leaving the scene of an accident without reporting the incident and exchanging insurance information is illegal, no matter how major or minor the collision. Drivers who leave the scene of a crash can be charged with a felony. If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident caused by another motorist’s reckless driving, you deserve justice and compensation.
How do you avoid being penalized by a hit-and-run driver? Make certain that you have the appropriate auto insurance.
Call 911 immediately, and then check for injuries. The most important priority is always your own well-being and the well-being of all occupants in the vehicles. In the immediate aftermath of any traffic accident, it’s important to take a minute to calm down and take stock of the situation. The minutes that you waste before calling emergency personnel may be the difference in someone getting life-saving medical care. Also, law enforcement will secure the scene to reduce the likelihood that another car will hit the crashed vehicle. Calling 911 is not just for your safety, but the safety of all on the roadway.
Calling 911 and emergency personnel means you will be able to document the crash. Make it a point to speak with the on-site police officers as soon as possible. In the event of a hit-and-run, your best chance at finding the perpetrator is to file a police report. Not only does this get authorities looking for the fleeing motorist immediately, but it also allows you to provide important details while they’re still fresh in your memory.
What make and model of car was the other person driving? What color? Did you get a look at that person? Did you get a look at their license plate? Any information you can provide helps, and having a documented record of the incident early on is vital.
Thanks to modern smartphone technology, almost everyone has a camera on them at all times. Put yours to use by taking photographs of the car accident aftermath. Much like the aforementioned police report, hit and run victims often find having a photographic record on file extremely valuable in ensuring justice is served.
Take pictures of your vehicle at the crash site, with special emphasis on any damage suffered during the accident. Take pictures of any injuries you or your passengers may have sustained. Take pictures of any tire tracks or debris that may have been left behind by the perpetrator. Take pictures of the entire scene as a whole. You never know what helpful details may be hidden among the wreckage.
Hit-and-run accidents can be complicated matters to deal with. Amid an ongoing investigation, and with the criminal motorist potentially unidentified and still at large, you need someone with experience in this situation to help you navigate the pitfalls.
A good hit-and-run accident lawyer in St. Louis, MO, will know how to take charge of things. They can advise you on what avenues of legal recourse are available. Even if the hit-and-run perpetrator isn’t found, you may still be able to receive compensation from other sources.
Don’t get left holding the bag in the aftermath of a traumatizing traffic accident. If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run, a personal injury lawyer from The Cagle Law Firm can help. We have the knowledge and experience to help you evaluate your options and receive the compensation you deserve.
For a free consultation with a hit and run accident attorney in St. Louis, MO, contact The Cagle Law Firm today.
The Cagle Law Firm serves accident and injury clients throughout St. Louis and the greater St. Louis metropolitan area, including the eastern Missouri and southern Illinois communities. If you or a loved one needs legal assistance with your personal injury case, call The Cagle Law Firm at (314) 276-1681 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.
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