Car accidents carry enough stress on their own, no matter how minor that fender bender might be. But when the at-fault driver speeds away instead of stopping, the frustration and confusion multiply fast.
A hit-and-run car accident leaves you dealing with vehicle damage, possible injuries and no one immediately accountable for any of it. Knowing what to do in those critical first minutes makes a real difference in how your claim plays out.
Your first moves after a hit-and-run
Those first moments at the scene matter enormously. Here’s what to prioritize right away:
- Move to safety: Get yourself and any passengers away from active traffic immediately
- Call 911: Report the crash and request medical help if you or anyone needs it
- Note the other vehicle: Write down the color, make, model, partial plate number and the direction they fled
- Photograph everything: Capture vehicle damage, skid marks and road conditions from multiple angles
- Get witness information: Ask any bystanders nearby for their names and phone numbers
- Look for nearby cameras: Note any traffic cameras, business surveillance systems or doorbell cameras in the area
It would greatly help your case if you have a dashcam and were able to capture the license plate of the at-fault driver. Every detail you gather right now strengthens your case considerably.
How hit-and-run claims work in Louisiana
Louisiana law requires drivers to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. That coverage becomes your most important resource when the at-fault driver disappears.
Your policy steps in to cover medical bills, lost wages and vehicle damage when the responsible driver never surfaces. Filing a police report right away strengthens your UM claim and gives law enforcement the best possible chance of tracking down who caused the crash.
Should you chase the driver who fled?
Resist that urge. Chasing a fleeing driver puts you and everyone else on the road at serious risk. Instead, gather every identifying detail you can from where you stand.
Then, share it all with the police and your attorney. They can work to trace the driver through surveillance footage, witness accounts and other available evidence.
Stay prepared for the unexpected
Hit-and-run accidents feel deeply unfair but you still have strong options. Acting quickly, documenting the scene thoroughly and reporting the crash right away gives your case a solid foundation.
Additionally, speaking with a personal injury attorney can help you pursue every available avenue for compensation. This way, you don’t end up carrying the legal stress on your own or the financial cost of someone else’s decision to drive away.