What Is The Hit-And-Run Accident Investigation Process?

If you’ve been injured due to a negligent hit-and-run driver, then you need to know what steps to take next. Specifically, you need to know what the investigation process may look like, both from a law enforcement perspective as well as from a personal injury claim perspective.

Contacting a Kentucky car accident lawyer can be a crucial step in this process. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case, work alongside investigators to gather evidence, and advocate for your rights to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses.

Law Enforcement’s Role in Hit-and-Run Investigations

The police play a critical role in investigating hit-and-run incidents. When a hit-and-run accident occurs, they conduct multiple steps to try to identify and locate the fleeing driver:

• Responding to the Scene. When an officer arrives, they secure the area, interview witnesses, and take initial notes. They may gather critical information from any witnesses who saw the accident or may have seen the fleeing vehicle’s description, direction, or license plate number.
• Gathering Evidence. Police will collect evidence, including any surveillance footage from nearby businesses, homes, or street cameras. Physical evidence at the scene, such as car parts or tire marks, can also help investigators understand the vehicle involved and possibly the driver’s identity.
• Locating the Suspect Vehicle. Law enforcement uses information from the scene, witness statements, and technology, such as license plate readers, to identify potential vehicles. They might also issue alerts to other agencies and the public to locate the suspect vehicle and driver as quickly as possible.

Steps to Take If You’re Involved in a Hit-and-Run Accident

As a victim of a hit-and-run, there are specific steps you should take to protect yourself and ensure that your case is as strong as possible. Although Kentucky is a “no-fault” insurance state, hit-and-run accidents complicate how liability and damages are handled.

1. Report the Incident. Call the police immediately. Having an official police report is essential for insurance purposes and for any future legal claims.
2. Gather Your Own Evidence. If you are able, collect as much information as possible. Take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle’s damage, and any injuries. Write down what you remember, as details may be harder to recall later on.
3. Seek Medical Attention. Even if you feel relatively unharmed, certain injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately. Visiting a medical professional ensures proper documentation of your injuries, which will be crucial if you pursue a claim.
4. Contact Your Insurance Provider. Kentucky requires drivers to have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can help cover expenses if the at-fault party is not located. Inform your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process under your UM policy.

Challenges in Hit-and-Run Accident Claims

Recovering compensation in hit-and-run accidents can be difficult, especially if the at-fault driver is not identified. Without a responsible party, proving liability falls to the insurance policy terms you have in place. Here are a few common challenges victims face:

• Lack of Evidence Against the Fleeing Driver. Since hit-and-run accidents involve a driver who leaves the scene, the police may struggle to obtain enough evidence for identification. This can hinder efforts to pursue compensation directly from the responsible driver’s insurance.
• Insurance Claim Disputes. Sometimes, your own insurance provider may question the validity of your uninsured motorist claim, especially if there is limited evidence of the hit-and-run. A skilled attorney can help negotiate with your insurer and, if necessary, file a bad-faith claim if the insurance provider wrongfully denies your benefits.
• Physical and Emotional Recovery. Recovering from injuries can take weeks, months, or even years, and the trauma of a hit-and-run accident often leaves emotional scars. The challenges associated with healing while navigating an insurance claim can be overwhelming without experienced legal assistance.

Contact a Kentucky Car Accident Attorney for Assistance

If you or a loved one have been injured in a hit-and-run accident, please consider speaking with a Kentucky attorney experienced in handling these cases. Our team of Kentucky personal injury attorneys is ready to assist you in recovering the compensation you deserve. You can reach us for a free consultation of your claim today.