Your car was just hit from behind, and your airbags deployed. Feeling disoriented, you look up in time to see a car pass you and speed off. When the police and paramedics arrive, they ask you about the other driver, and you try to remember the details. You tell them that the other car sped away as the paramedics assess you and decide to take you to the hospital because you are injured.
Based on the information that you give to the police, they will begin searching for the driver of the other vehicle. In Indiana (and much of the United States), leaving the scene of an accident is illegal.
What happens following a hit and run
If the police locate the driver who is accused of the hit and run, you will have two courses of action to choose from.
- You can choose to file a claim with their insurance company.
- You can choose to file a personal injury lawsuit against the other driver.
If, however, the police are unable to locate the driver of the other car, you have these choices:
- You can file a claim with your own car insurance company. Your policy should include uninsured motorist coverage that can be used in this instance to cover your damages and medical bills.
- File a claim with your medical insurance.
What if my injuries are severe?
Should you be severely injured in a hit-and-run accident, it is important that you contact an experienced legal advisor right away. They can help you understand the available options, and they may be able to assist in locating the other driver and any witnesses who saw the accident.