A hit-and-run accident is one of the most stressful types of crashes you can experience. Not only are you dealing with potential injuries and property damage, but the driver responsible has fled the scene, leaving you unsure of what to do next. Fortunately, Maryland law and your own insurance policy may still offer a path to recovery. Getting fair compensation for your damages in a hit-and-run accident case requires taking the right steps immediately. Below, our Maryland car accident lawyer provides a step-by-step guide on what to do after a hit-and-run accident and how to protect your legal and financial interests.
Table of Contents
Prioritize Safety and Call 911
The first and most important step is to make sure you and any passengers are safe. Move your vehicle out of the roadway if possible and call 911 to report the crash. Emergency responders can check for injuries, and police will begin the process of documenting the accident. Even if you believe your injuries are minor or there’s limited vehicle damage, reporting the accident is essential in hit-and-run cases.
Try to Gather Information
While the other driver may have fled, any details you can remember could help law enforcement track them down. Make note of:
- The fleeing vehicle’s make, model, and color.
- Any part of the license plate you recall.
- The direction the driver fled.
- The time and location of the crash.
- Contact information for any witnesses.
- Photos or video from your phone—or even nearby businesses or traffic cameras—could also be valuable evidence.
File a Police Report
In Maryland, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense. Filing a police report ensures the incident is officially documented and may assist in locating the responsible driver. Be honest and thorough when giving your account. Make sure to obtain a copy of the report, as it will be crucial for filing insurance claims, especially if the driver is not found.
Notify Your Insurance Company
You should contact your insurer as soon as possible to report the hit and run accident. Even though the other driver fled, you may be eligible for compensation under your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. In Maryland, uninsured motorist coverage is required by law and typically applies in hit-and-run cases where the at-fault driver cannot be identified. UM coverage can help pay for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
Be sure to review your policy details and deadlines for filing a claim. If you delay, you could lose important benefits.
If you have been involved in a car accident, talk to our team of dedicated car accident attorneys at Poole Law Group: 301-790-3600. We offer free consultations, seven days a week.
Contact a Maryland Car Accident Lawyer
Insurance companies may not always offer the full compensation you’re entitled to—especially in hit-and-run cases. A skilled Maryland car accident lawyer can help you:
- Evaluate your claim
- Negotiate with the insurance company
- Gather evidence to support your case
- Pursue a lawsuit if necessary
An attorney can also advise on other potential sources of compensation, such as victims’ funds or pursuing civil claims if the driver is eventually identified.
Follow Up on Medical Care and Document Everything
Even if you don’t feel hurt immediately after the crash, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries take hours or days to appear, and early documentation helps connect your injuries to the accident. Keep detailed records of:
- Medical visits and bills
- Time missed from work
- Vehicle repair estimates
- Communication with your insurer
These records will support your claim and ensure you receive fair compensation.
A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling powerless—but you don’t have to handle it alone. By acting quickly, documenting everything, and working with law enforcement and a trusted attorney, you can protect your rights and recover the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run in Maryland, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and learn how we can guide you through the uninsured motorist claim process and pursue justice—even when the other driver is nowhere to be found.
