No matter how a car accident happens, it can be a stressful experience for all parties involved. After an accident, drivers usually exchange information, call the police, and make claims to insurance to get the damage fixed. However, if you’re in an accident and the other driver flees, you may not know what to do. If you’re wondering what to do in a hit-and-run accident, consider the tips included in this blog post from the lawyers at Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC.
What is a Hit-and-Run?
Oregon law states that if an individual driver is involved in an accident with another vehicle, both parties and all vehicle occupants must stop the vehicle and remain at the accident scene. Anyone who causes an accident and leaves the scene without providing any information about themselves or providing assistance to another can be charged with hit-and-run.
What Should You Do In a Hit-and-Run?
If you’ve been in an accident and the other party leaves, it may be challenging to know what to do. However, with some knowledge, you can protect yourself from further damage.
Immediate Actions: Protecting Yourself and Your Rights
After the accident, you must address immediate safety concerns, call local authorities for assistance, and seek medical attention if necessary. Gather as much information as possible about the other driver, car, and accident. Even though the other driver has left, you must stay on the scene. Above all, it’s critical to call the police to secure evidence.
Navigating Insurance Claims and Compensation
Even if the police can’t immediately locate the other driver, you must notify your insurance company to report the accident. In many cases, drivers use their insurance coverage for uninsured motorists. Other coverage, such as personal injury protection, medical payments, or collision coverage, may cover the accident. Contacting a Salem car accident attorney, such as Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC, can help you through this confusing process and protect your rights while dealing with the insurance company. Our knowledgeable hit-and-run attorneys can maximize compensation for medical bills while helping you deal with vehicle damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Understanding Oregon Laws and Regulations
At the time of an accident, anyone involved must stop and stay at the scene, notify authorities, exchange information, and render aid to anyone needing assistance. Failing to do so will leave anyone with hit-and-run charges. If someone is injured in the accident, it could mean a Class C felony for anyone who flees. From the accident date, Oregon law states that the statute of limitations gives you two years to file a personal injury claim.
Legal Guidance: Why You Need a Hit-and-Run Attorney
Knowing what to do in a hit-and-run is confusing, but hiring an attorney doesn’t have to be. Hiring an attorney to help you navigate the legal complexities of your accident saves you time and money. It enables you to advocate for your rights while getting help pursuing compensation for any damages that may have been incurred. A car accident attorney near Salem will encourage you to cooperate with law enforcement investigations while exploring options for finding the at-fault driver and taking legal action to hold them accountable.
Trust Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC with Your Hit-and-Run Case
Wondering what to do in a hit-and-run can leave you confused with the feeling of not knowing where to turn. The knowledgeable team at Swanson, Lathen, Prestwich, PC will help you navigate this challenging time, giving you the help you need. If you’ve been involved in a car crash in Salem, Oregon, contact our personal injury lawyers in Oregon today.