So if this sounds like you, there are some actions you can take that are important, but don’t try to take matters into your own hands, don’t chase down the driver yourself, and do not leave the scene of the accident before the police request you do so – do these things listed here:
First – Call 911 if there is an urgency like an injury. If there is no urgency, still call the police and report the incident, wait for them to attend the site as you want them to investigate this, and make sure a file is created on your behalf. Get the file number for your report from them as well. If the police refuse to make a file, make sure to take down the details of the police officer you speak with, including their full name, badge number, and telephone number – so that your lawyer and insurer can follow up with them if necessary.
Next, If you can, write down the license plate number of the vehicle responsible or get it from any bystanders that might have captured it for you, share this information with the police if you have it.
If you aren’t able to get the license plate, make notes on everything you can about the assailant, write down the make, the model, the color/s, as well as anything you or bystanders witnessed about the driver if they were seen. Write down the date, the time, and the weather conditions as well as any damages. Share all of this with the police when they arrive to help them pursue this further. You will need this for your insurance provider also, so keep all of your original notes yourself and share a copy of them.
Remember to take contact information, including their full name, phone numbers, and addresses, for any bystanders or witnesses that can support your claim by sharing information they have.
Use your phone to take pictures of your car and the surrounding area, ask any bystanders if they were able to take pictures of the incident or the vehicle that caused it and get those for safekeeping.