A driver who was involved in a crash has a legal responsibility to stop, exchange information, and stay at the scene unless there is a medical emergency. Unfortunately, not all motorists follow the law. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, there are approximately 700,000 hit-and-run collisions reported nationwide each year. It is a stunning figure—and it can put the victims in a difficult position. At Tittle & Perlmuter, we have experience handling hit-and-run claims.
Here, our Cleveland hit-and-run accident lawyer highlights the steps to take after a crash.
What to Do After Hit and Run Accident in Cleveland
Step #1: Stop Your Vehicle and Record Any Details at the Scene
Were you the victim of a hit-and-run? You should stop your vehicle and get yourself into a safe location. Try to record anything you can about the crash. Take note of any details you can remember about the other vehicle, such as color, make, model, and any part of the license plate number. You should also photograph the scene. If there are witnesses, get their contact details.
Step #2: Call the Police to Report the Crash
All hit-and-runs should be reported. A hit-and-run collision should be reported to the Cleveland Police Department or another local or state law enforcement agency. Unless there is a serious medical emergency, you should wait for the police to arrive so you can give a full report. Police may be able to help you track down the responsible driver.
Step #3: Seek Prompt Medical Care for Any Injuries
All hit-and-run accident injuries should be evaluated by a doctor. You need to get medical care right away after a bad collision. Even if you feel fine, you still need to get professional care. Be sure to follow all medical advice and keep records of your visit and any treatment received. Without medical records, it can be more complicated to get compensation for your injuries.
Step #4: Notify Your InsurerÂ
Do you have uninsured or underinsured (UM/UIM) insurance coverage? If so, it is crucial that you notify your own insurance provider right away to report the collision. Provide your insurer with all the information you collected, including the police report number. Most likely, your policy language requires you to notify your insurance company in a timely manner after a crash.
Step #5: Consult With an Ohio Auto Accident Attorney
You do not have to take on a hit-and-run accident claim alone. These are often challenging cases. A top-tier Cleveland car accident lawyer can investigate your crash, gather evidence, and help you develop a plan of action to seek the maximum financial compensation.
Remember, insurance companies—even your own provider—are ultimately not on your side.
Understanding Your Options for Compensation After a Hit-and-Run Crash
What options do you have to recover compensation after a hit-and-run crash in Ohio? As a general matter, there are three potential paths to getting financial support:
- Track Down the At-Fault Driver: There are many hit-and-run cases that are resolved. After the incident, police will initiate an investigation to locate the driver using details from the scene, witness statements, and possibly traffic camera footage. Your proactive participation can be critical to getting justice. With this in mind, you should try to collect as much information as possible at the scene and share this with the police.
- Bring a Claim Through Your UM/UIM Policy: If the at-fault driver cannot be located, your next option is to file a claim under your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. Filing a UM/UIM claim can provide compensation for medical treatments, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our lawyers can help you seek the maximum compensation through your UM/UIM coverage.
- Identify an At-Fault Third Party: Was any party other than the hit-and-run driver also responsible for causing your crash? If so, they may bear liability for your damages. A claim against a negligent third party may be an option for a hit-and-run caused, at least in part, by poor road maintenance, malfunctioning traffic signals, or another driver who stayed at the scene. A Cleveland hit-and-run lawyer can help you explore every potential option.
Recovering Full and Fair Compensation
A hit-and-run crash is no small matter. It can cause serious, even life-altering injuries. In Ohio, hit-and-run accident victims have the right to seek compensation for the full value of their damages, including for any non-economic losses. Our Cleveland, OH hit and run accident attorneys fight tirelessly to protect the rights of victims and families. You may be able to recover for:
- Property loss, including vehicle repairs;
- Emergency medical treatment;
- Hospital bills and other medical costs;
- Physical therapy/rehabilitative care;
- Loss of current and future earnings;
- Pain and suffering & mental distress;
- Disability or disfigurement;
- Lower quality of life; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Why Trust the Cleveland Hit and Run Crash Lawyers at Tittle & Perlmuter
Dealing with the aftermath of a serious car crash is stressful—especially if the other driver fled the scene without stopping. At Tittle & Perlmuter, we fight for justice. Our hit-and-run accident lawyers go above and beyond to help our clients maximize their financial compensation. Our client testimonials and case results tell the story best. We will help you explore every available option to get justice and the compensation that you need to pay your bills and support your family.
Contact Our Cleveland, OH Attorneys for a Free Case Review
At Tittle & Perlmuter, our Cleveland automobile accident lawyers have experience handling hit-and-run crashes. Were you hit by a hit-and-run driver? We are here to help. Contact us right away for a no-cost, no-strings-attached case evaluation. With offices located in Cleveland, Elyria, Sandusky, and Chardon, we handle accident cases throughout Northeast Ohio.
