What To Do After A Hit-and-Run Accident in Ontario
Any car accident can be a stressful and traumatic experience. However, things can get even more complicated when you are involved in a hit-and-run accident in which the other driver flees the scene of the crash.
Many people who become victims of hit-and-run accidents in Ontario and are left feeling completely helpless. In fact, many of them are unsure of what to do after the other driver flees the scene.
If you have been hurt in a hit-and-run accident in Ontario, consider speaking with an experienced personal injury lawyer to identify the available sources of compensation in your case.
Types of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Ontario, Canada
Hit-and-run accidents can be broken down into several categories:
- A car hitting a pedestrian
- Crashes between two moving vehicles (attended vehicle crashes)
- A vehicle hitting a parked car (unattended vehicle crashes)
- A car causing property damage (e.g., hitting a mailbox, fence, pole, or other types of personal property)
Regardless of the type of your hit-and-run accident, recovering damages after a crash in which the at-fault driver’s identity is not known can be tricky. That is why you might want to speak with an experienced lawyer in your area to conduct a thorough and comprehensive investigation and help you pursue the compensation to which you are entitled.
6 Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Ontario
If you have been involved in a collision caused by a driver who fled the scene of the accident, you need to know what steps to take to protect your right to compensation.
1. Report the crash.
According to the official website of Hamilton Police Service (HPS), drivers involved in car crashes must notify the police if the accident resulted in injuries, deaths, or property damage exceeding $2,000. Reporting your hit-and-run crash might help identify and locate the driver who fled the scene.
2. Seek medical attention.
It is critical to document your injuries immediately after the hit-and-run crash. If you do not receive medical care within a reasonable amount of time, your insurance company may deny your personal injury claim.
3. Collect evidence at the scene of the accident.
The importance of collecting all available pieces of evidence after a hit-and-run accident cannot be overstated. Make every attempt to remember and record any relevant information about the fleeing driver: the license plate, the vehicle’s make, model, colour, and other details that might be helpful in identifying the motorist.
4. Identify witnesses.
Witness statements play a crucial role in hit-and-run accident cases. Early investigation via contacting a personal injury lawyer will assist in ensuring those witnesses are identified and evidence secured.
5. Notify your car insurance company.
Ontario laws require you to report the hit and run accident within 7 days of the accident, and the police immediately or a collision reporting center within 24 hours.
6. Speak with a hit-and-run lawyer.
Last but not least, consider contacting an experienced hit-and-run lawyer to conduct an independent investigation to identify and locate the fleeing motorist
Contact a Hit-and-Run Lawyer Hamilton at Virk Personal Injury Law
After a hit-and-run accident, a victim could benefit from having a knowledgeable lawyer on their side because the lawyer can help obtain access to surveillance camera and dashcam footage that captured the moment of the crash.
A lawyer will take the necessary steps to help the victim identify the driver who fled the scene of the car accident and hold the fleeing motorist accountable. At Virk Personal Injury Law, we understand how confusing and stressful a hit-and-run accident can be. That is why we are dedicated to representing the best interests of our clients involved in hit-and-run accidents in Hamilton and other parts of Ontario.
Get a free case evaluation with our lawyers at Virk Personal Injury Law by calling (905) 521-8888 or book your consultation online.