A Hit-and-Run Accident is Often An Unsolved Mystery

Hit-and-run accidents result in anger, confusion, revenge and often serious injury or death of the victim. Because a hit and run is exactly what it says it is—an accident where someone is hit and the car takes off—it remains to be seen in many cases who was driving the vehicle. In some cases, the place of the hit-and-run is a place where other accidents have occurred, such as dangerous streets or intersections; others are isolated incidents that occur randomly in any given street in a number of towns across the country. Many hit-and-run accidents happen in evening or early morning hours when people are driving home form bars, or taking an early shift to work, and visibility is impaired or non-existent. How likely is a hit-and-run to happen to you, and what can you do to prevent one from happening in the first place?

Because hit-and-runs often leave the mystery unsolved because the driver flees from the scene without witnesses, there may never be a resolution to the issue. There are some precautionary steps you can take to ensure your own safety when walking along the road or on a sidewalk bordering busy streets:

• If you know you will be walking along a road or dimly lit sidewalk, prepare by wearing clothing that is reflective; no matter how fashionable, refrain from wearing black.
• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Walk facing traffic so that you can see what lies ahead.
• Cross the streets at appropriate times and locations; don’t try to make a mad dash for the other side if you know your safety will be compromised.
• Hold the hands of an elderly companion or child before you cross the street.
• Watch the road for erratic driver, or drivers who may not have their lights on. If you have a cell phone, report these drivers so they do not cause injury to you or someone else in the process.

If you have already been involved in a hit-and-run accident and are able to speak with authorities, here are some other things you can do:

• Activate the voice recorder on your mobile device and record what you remember about what happened. Include any details you can recall from the car and driver.
• Enlist support of any witnesses to the scene.
• Provide detailed information to the police officer and emergency responders.
• Call your New York attorney who can advise you on your next step.

If you someone you know has been involved in a hit-and-run accident, having as much documentation and recollection of the scene as possible will best help you and authorities find out who caused the injury and work toward the compensation you deserve.