Did you know that according to the Virginia Highway Safety Office, there were an estimated 5,741 drivers involved in hit and run crashes in 2021 just in Virginia alone? Virginia State Law (Code § 46.2-894) requires all drivers involved in a vehicle crash to stop at the scene if they have been involved in a motor vehicle crash. If a driver leaves the scene without speaking with police or giving the required information to the other party, it is considered a hit and run. Hit and run crashes have a multitude of consequences for not only drivers that leave the scene, but also the drivers who are left behind. Thankfully, the attorneys at Reid Goodwin know how to ensure that drivers who are involved in accidents where the at fault party flees the scene may still have the chance to recover for their injuries.
At ReidGoodwin, we understand that hit and run crashes can be scary and overwhelming for those involved. Below our team has listed some critical steps to help drivers become more knowledgeable of what to do if they are ever involved in a hit and run:
1. Call the Police: If you are involved in a hit and run accident make sure to call the police and allow them to file a police report. Police reports usually include the date, time, and location of the crash, which can be important should you need to file a claim. Be sure to take pictures of the damages and keep them close for when you need them. 
2.Share as Much Information as You Can: In hit and run cases, it can sometimes be difficult to find the driver involved. That’s why it is extremely important to share as much information as possible and be as specific as you can when communicating with law enforcement personnel. Specific information can potentially lead to finding the responsible driver and holding them accountable for their actions. Some examples of specific information are, but not limited to car color, car make or model, license plate number, driver description, and the direction that the driver went when they fled the scene.
3.Seek Medical Attention: If you were injured in the crash, be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible. While not all injuries occur instantly, it is important to listen to your body and seek medical attention if you need it. For any appointments or visits that are related to the crash, make sure to save those medical bills and insurance statements. They could come in handy if a claim is filed or if a personal injury case is pursued.
4.Communicate with your insurance: In hit and run accidents, it is important to let your insurance know about the accident and any damages or injuries you may have received.
5. If needed, call a lawyer: If you have any questions or need legal advice on what to do, reach out to qualified attorney, like us, for help. For any questions or if you have a potential case, feel free to call our office and schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.