What should you do after a hit-and-run accident in Ohio?

November 21, 2022 | Crandall & Pera Law
What should you do after a hit-and-run accident in Ohio?

It is called a hit-and-run if someone crashes into you and then leaves the accident scene. This can be a traumatic experience, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and confused about what to do next in Ohio. Therefore, taking these steps is essential to ensure that you are safe, that the other driver is held accountable, and that you get support after the accident.

Take care of yourself

First and foremost, if you get injured in an accident, make sure to get medical attention right away. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, they can worsen over time, and it's important to document them for legal purposes.

Contact the police

Stay at the scene of the accident and call the police. Tell them you were in an accident and the other car left without leaving any information. If possible, provide them with a description of the vehicle and its license plate number, if you can remember it. The police will take a report, which will be vital if you decide to pursue legal action.

Document the accident

Take pictures of the car and any injuries that you sustained as a result of the car accident. This will help your case if you decide to pursue legal action against the other driver. Make sure to also write down contact information for any witnesses who saw the accident.

Contact your insurance company

Let your insurance company know that you were in an accident, even if it was a hit-and-run. Your car insurance policy may cover some of the costs associated with the accident. A hit-and-run may result in criminal charges for the other driver, as leaving the scene of an accident is illegal. Depending on the jurisdiction, there can also be civil or administrative penalties for being involved in a hit-and-run accident.