All car accidents are upsetting, even if they don’t result in serious injury or property damage. Hit and run accidents, however, can leave the victims feeling even worse. When a driver flees the scene of an accident, you might worry that there’s no one to hold responsible for your injuries and the damage to your vehicle. However, don’t give up just yet. With the help of the police, your insurance company, and a personal injury attorney, you may be able to recover compensation for your losses.
Hit and Run Laws in Ohio
Ohio takes hit and run accidents very seriously—in fact, if you flee from a hit and run accident, you will face criminal charges. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, a driver can be charged with up to a second-degree felony. Ohio Rev. Code Section 4549 describes the penalties for different types of hit and run accidents, including those which only result in property damage.
While the national hit and run statistics average about 4.6 hit and run accidents per 10,000 car accidents, Ohio’s average is higher. In this state, 7 out of every 10,000 car accidents are classified as hit and run. That might sound like a small number—until it happens to you.
What to Do if You’ve Been in a Hit and Run Accident
- Call the police. First, call the police. Never try to chase the hit and run driver, as that can create an even more dangerous situation for yourself and others on the road. The police will file a report and track down the driver.
- Document the accident. Next, if possible, document the accident. Get photos of the accident scene and the damage to your vehicle and other property. If there are eyewitnesses, ask for their contact information.
- Get medical help. Make sure that a doctor checks you out, even if you don’t think you were injured. Some injuries take days to appear, and you’ll need the documentation for full compensation.
- Call your insurance company. Next, call your insurance company to file a claim. They may ask for information like the police report, photos and other evidence to help track down the other driver.
- Call a personal injury attorney. Finally, call a personal injury attorney. They can evaluate your case and discuss your legal options, so that you’re not left to bear the cost of the accident alone.
Get Help from an Ohio Personal Injury Attorney
When you’re injured by a hit and run driver, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call me today at 877.944.4373 for a consultation. We’ll discuss your accident, the police investigation and decide what can be done to recover compensation.