What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Missouri

A hit-and-run accident can be traumatic and stressful. It’s often difficult to know what to do next when you aren’t sure who the at-fault driver is or where they might have gone. Knowing what to do after a hit-and-run accident in Missouri can help you remain calm in the aftermath of the incident.

Understanding your legal obligations and options is crucial when you’re dealing with any car accident. It’s important to know the state laws and regulations that govern these incidents. A car accident lawyer can explain your rights and guide the investigation process.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Missouri

A hit-and-run accident can be very disorienting. It’s important to know the steps you can take to ensure your safety in addition to preparing your case for compensation.

Get Your Vehicle to a Safe Place

Immediately after the accident, if possible, try to get your vehicle to the side of the road, where you are not at risk of being hit by other vehicles. Then, turn on your hazard lights. Check for injuries. If anyone is seriously injured, do not try to move them unless there is an immediate danger. Notify emergency services about the injuries, and report the accident.

Document the Scene

Without the at-fault driver present, it’s imperative that you document every possible detail of the accident. This can help law enforcement identify and pursue the responsible party, which can be critical for your civil and insurance claims.

• Write down details, such as the date, time, and location of the accident. Note the vehicle’s description and any distinguishing features, such as bumper stickers or modifications.
• Witnesses to the accident could have a clearer perspective of the incident. Ask for contact information, and see if they would be willing to provide a statement to the police regarding what they saw.
• Document the damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area. Take photos of additional evidence, such as skid marks or debris in the road. You can also take pictures of any visible injuries sustained by you or your passengers.

Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, this may prove beneficial if the at-fault driver is not found. It’s important to review your policy and the claims process so you know what the next steps for your case will be.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

A hit-and-run accident can involve a complicated legal process, especially if the at-fault driver is never caught. An experienced attorney can navigate the legal complexities of your case, making sure your rights are upheld while exploring all avenues for compensation. An attorney can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and gather evidence to support your claim.

Keep Track of Your Expenses

It’s important to keep track of all medical records and lost wages that resulted from your accident. This documentation can help you when seeking compensation for damages.

FAQs

How Long Do You Have to Report a Hit-and-Run in Missouri?

After a hit-and-run accident in Missouri, you have up to 30 days to file a report with the police. However, to make sure evidence remains fresh, it’s better to report the incident as soon as possible so the official record of the accident is as close to accurate as possible. To file a civil claim against a hit-and-run driver, you have up to five years to file, according to the Missouri statute of limitations.

What Happens If You Wait to Report a Hit-and-Run?

If you wait too long to report a hit-and-run accident, you may waive your ability to recover compensation for any injuries or damages. It will be difficult to pursue legal action or file an insurance claim, as evidence may not be as clear so long after the accident. If the at-fault driver cannot be determined successfully, you may be financially responsible for all your medical and personal property costs from the accident.

What Is the Penalty for a Hit-and-Run in Missouri?

The penalty for a hit-and-run in Missouri varies based on the severity of the case. A conviction could potentially result in jail time, with the length of time depending on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony. Penalties could also include added points on the offender’s driver’s license or a suspension of the license. In addition, the offense will remain on the driver’s permanent record.

How Can I Identify the Hit-and-Run Driver?

If you were involved in a hit-and-run accident, you might still identify the at-fault driver. Note all that you remember about the accident and anything you observed about the car that hit you. Check the scene for witnesses who can describe the scene. There may be surveillance footage from local traffic or business cameras that caught the incident. The other vehicle may have also left debris at the scene of the accident.

Should You Chase Someone After a Hit-and-Run?

It can be very dangerous to chase someone after a hit-and-run accident, so it is not advised. Instead, contact law enforcement with any information you have about the other driver and vehicle. If you try to pursue the at-fault driver on your own, you could risk a reckless driving charge or cause another accident, which would shift the blame onto you.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be disorienting and stressful. If you’re worried about how to pay for the damages or medical bills associated with your hit-and-run accident, especially if you do not know the at-fault party’s identity, a personal injury lawyer can help. They can provide knowledgeable guidance throughout the legal and insurance processes, fight for your rights, and work to secure the compensation you deserve.

The experienced team at Northland Injury Law can explain what to do after a hit-and-run accident in Missouri. We can gather evidence and collaborate with law enforcement to find the responsible party. We can also navigate insurance claims to maximize your compensation.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation so we can get started on your case while you focus on making a full recovery.