What Should I Do If I’ve Been Involved in a Maryland Hit-and-Run Car Accident?

Being in a car accident is a traumatic event; however, when the at-fault driver flees the scene of the accident, it can also complicate your vehicle accident claim. Maryland law states that all drivers involved in a car accident must stop; however, this is not always the case. Some drivers ignore this law and flee the scene of the accident as in the two recent accidents below:

• Deadly hit-and-run in District Heights, MD – A man was struck by a van and killed in a hit-and-run accident while crossing Pennsylvania Avenue in District Heights, MD. The driver of the vehicle did not stop at the accident scene.
• Hit-and-run leaves man in critical condition – Another man was critically injured in a hit-and-run accident in Baltimore, MD. The driver fled the scene after striking the man in the 800 block of Woodbourne Avenue.

Why Do People Leave the Scene of a Car Accident?

There are many reasons why a driver would leave the scene of an accident including failing to have a valid driver’s license, failing to have insurance, running from an outstanding warrant, and not realizing there has been a collision. Regardless of the reason, it is against the law for a driver to leave the scene of an accident and the driver will face criminal charges for that action.

However, in addition to criminal charges, a driver who leaves the scene of an accident also faces a potential civil lawsuit by the injured victims from the accident. Unfortunately, if law enforcement is unable to identify the hit-and-run driver, you will not have a person so sue. Can you still receive compensation for a hit-and-run accident?

Steps to Take Following a Hit-and-Run Accident in Maryland

You may be eligible to receive compensation from your uninsured motorist coverage under Maryland’s insurance laws; however, you still need to take some basic steps that you would take following any accident to ensure that you protect your right to a full recovery.

• Medical Attention – If you are injured, call for emergency medical assistance. If you do not require emergency medical treatment, see your doctor as soon as possible to diagnose any injuries caused by the car accident. You must keep copies of all records and information to provide to your attorney.
• Contact the Police – Call the Maryland police to report the hit-and-run and request an officer to investigate the accident. Provide as much information regarding the accident and the other vehicle as possible and request a copy of the police report.
• Eyewitness Information – Obtain the name and contact information for any eyewitnesses to the accident. This could be very important in your case as well as in the criminal investigation.
• Photograph the Accident Scene – If possible, take pictures of the accident scene including your vehicle, or ask someone to take pictures for you.
• Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company – Report the hit-and-run car accident to your insurance company and request confirmation of your current insurance coverage. DO NOT provide a written or recorded statement to your insurance company at this time and DO NOT discuss the details of the accident with your insurance company until you have spoken with our office.
• Contact DuBoff & Associates, Chartered Immediately – Contact our office to schedule a free car accident consultation. We can discuss your options for receiving compensation for your injuries.

DuBoff & Associates, Chartered: The Law Firm That Cares

The car accident attorneys of DuBoff & Associates, Chartered care about your recovery. We want to take away the stress of dealing with insurance companies, medical providers, and others so you can focus on getting better. Do not be fooled into thinking that you will be treated fairly because you are dealing with your own insurance company. You need someone who will have your best interest at heart no matter what.

Call our office 24/7 to speak directly with an attorney. We are here for you when you need us.