Every driver should do their best to avoid motor vehicle collisions. Safe driving requires that you carefully monitor your surroundings and that you keep your vehicle in good condition. Proper insurance is also important for your protection in the event of a crash.
Whatever kind of coverage you carry on your own, you will likely depend on the other driver’s coverage for the majority of your costs after a crash. However, not every driver will stop and give you the information you need to make an insurance claim following a collision.
Some people will try to speed off from the scene of a crash to avoid their responsibility to you as someone injured or with significant property damage. What happens after a hit-and-run crash?
You have to call the police
You may feel nothing but shock as you watch the other driver pull away from the scene of your crash and disappear over the horizon. After all, Colorado state law is very clear about the requirement that all drivers stop after a collision that results in either property damage or personal injury.
Once you get over your shock, you may think that your best option is to move on with your day, possibly going straight to the hospital or to your mechanic’s shop. However, you should take the time to report the crash to the police. You may have to wait at the scene of the wreck, but doing so will put you in the best possible position to seek justice later.
The police can potentially obtain traffic camera footage or other evidence that will identify the driver who caused the crash. Additionally, the police report will play a role in your insurance claim.
What insurance can do
If you cannot locate the other driver, you may need to make a claim against your own coverage. Your police report helps show that you were the victim of a hit-and-run. Your options may include a claim against uninsured motorist protection or collision coverage. If the police do locate the other driver, then you can either make a claim against their coverage or potentially file a civil lawsuit against them if they lack coverage or have a mediocre insurance policy.
Understanding the right steps to take after a hit-and-run motor vehicle collision will help you seek justice and get compensation for your losses.
