Being involved in a hit-and-run accident in California can be distressing. In the confusion of the moment, you may not know what the best thing to do is. Educating yourself can help you react appropriately if you ever find yourself in this situation.
Things to avoid
Truck or car accidents can occur so quickly that you do not have time to think. In the immediate aftermath, if the other driver leaves, your instinct might be to try to follow them. However, you should remain where you are. Not only does chasing after the other driver create the risk of another accident, but leaving the scene could make it more difficult for police to determine who was at fault. Furthermore, you might lose the opportunity to speak to and get contact information for any witnesses.
Things to do
Instead of pursuing the other driver, you should call the police and your insurance company as soon as possible. In addition, write down as thorough of a description of the other vehicle as you can as well as details about the accident. If possible, take photos. Any witnesses may be able to supply helpful details, so try to get this information from them as well as taking down their names and contact information.
Keeping a cool head is not an easy thing to do following an accident even if the other driver stays on the scene, and this can become even more difficult in a hit and run. However, proceeding methodically and taking steps to document as much as possible may help you get the assistance that you need from your insurance company and the legal system.
