Hit and Run Car Accidents: What To Do
Written by Cooper & Friedman PLLC on February 13, 2025
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Louisville, KY, you might be feeling overwhelmed, confused, and unsure of your next steps. While the immediate aftermath of a hit-and-run can be distressing, it’s important to know what actions you can take to protect yourself and your rights. At Cooper and Friedman, our experienced hit and run accident attorneys are here at every step of the way.
What is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident with a pedestrian, property, or another vehicle leaves the scene without providing the necessary information. This can include their name, address, and insurance details. In Kentucky, as in most states, leaving the scene of an accident is illegal. The driver who flees can face serious legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even imprisonment.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident
1. Evaluate Your Safety
The first priority in any car accident is making sure that everyone involved is safe and out of potential harm’s way. After a hit-and-run, check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Be sure to turn on your hazard lights, then, if it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic or causing additional accidents. If it is not possible to move the car out of the road, do not stay inside the car and move off of the road.
2. Call 911 and Report the Accident
Whether a hit-and-run results in injuries or just property damage, calling 911 is essential. Reporting the accident to the police creates an official record, which is crucial when it comes to filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. When speaking with the police, be as detailed as possible about the accident. Provide them with information about the make, model, and color of the vehicle that fled the scene, as well as any details about the driver’s appearance, if you were able to observe them.
3. Document the Scene
One of the most important things you can do after a hit-and-run is to document the accident. Take pictures of your vehicle’s damage, the surrounding area, any debris, and the location of the accident. If possible, take pictures of any nearby traffic cameras or surveillance cameras that might have captured footage of the incident. If there were any witnesses, ask for their contact information, if they would be willing to record a testimony, and if they are able to provide additional details about the other driver or the accident that could help lawyers and law enforcement find the hit and run driver.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but could worsen over time. Getting checked out by a healthcare professional gives a better guarantee that any injuries are documented within the time limit, which will be important for your personal injury claim.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company
After a hit-and-run accident in Kentucky, your own insurance policy will be the primary source of compensation. This is especially true if the at-fault driver cannot be located. Regardless, Kentucky is a no-fault state, meaning your insurance company will usually pay up to $10,000 without taking into account which driver was at-fault. However, it’s important to notify your insurer as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
Learn more about at-fault states in our other blog, “At-Fault vs No-Fault: What’s the Difference?”
6. Consult with a Hit and Run Accident Attorney
Hit-and-run accidents can be particularly complicated when it comes to seeking justice and compensation. If the driver is found, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover damages. If the driver is never found, your own insurance policy may need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Experienced hit and run accident attorneys can help you understand your options and get you the compensation that you deserve.
What Compensation Can You Expect?
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills: This includes emergency care, hospital visits, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: If you’re unable to work due to injuries sustained in the accident, you may be able to recover lost income.
- Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages, such as physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life, may be compensated.
- Property damage: Your vehicle’s repair or replacement costs can be covered by your insurance or the responsible party’s insurance.
Why Choose Cooper and Friedman?
If you’ve been involved in a hit and run accident in Louisville, KY, don’t face it alone. At Cooper and Friedman, we understand the emotional and financial stress that comes with being involved in a hit-and-run accident. Our dedicated team of hit and run accident attorneys is here to help you get the compensation you deserve. We offer a free consultation and work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay unless we win your case!
If you or someone you love has been injured in a hit and run accident in the State of Kentucky and are in need of an experienced injury attorney, give the lawyers at the Cooper & Friedman law firm a call. The attorneys at Cooper and Friedman PLLC have over 50 years of combined experience defending the rights of hit and run victims. Contact us with questions you might have or schedule a free case consultation with an attorney by calling 502-459-7555 today.