Hit and run incidents happen when you least expect them, leaving you with vehicle damage, potential personal harm, and the unknown of who else was involved. Protecting your vehicle and your own personal safety is crucial to avoid becoming a victim of these unfortunate events.

The importance of hit and run prevention

First things first, why is prevention so crucial? Hit and run incidents can have serious consequences, both physically and emotionally. Not only can they result in expensive repairs, but they can also cause severe injuries or in worst cases, fatalities.

Hit and runs occur when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing their contact information or rendering aid if necessary. This is not only illegal, but also morally wrong. By taking preventative measures, we can significantly reduce the amount of hit and run incidents and ensure the safety of ourselves and others on the road.

So, what are some ways you can protect you and your vehicle from these unfortunate accidents?

Tip 1: Be mindful of where you park

When parking your vehicle, it’s extremely important to choose well-lit and busy areas when possible, especially when parking at night. If you’re able to, consider using a garage or a parking lot that has designated security cameras. Ample lighting and security cameras not only increase visibility of your car, decreasing the chances of being hit, but the presence of them can help identify the perpetrator if an incident does occur. After you’ve found a spot, park close to the curb leave distance between other vehicles. Park within the designated parking spaces to help minimize the risk of your car getting sideswiped or hit by other vehicles. Hit and runs often occur when the responsible party believes there are no witnesses.

Tip 2: Maintain good visibility

One of the fundamental keys to avoiding accidents, including hit and runs, is maintaining good visibility while on the road. Make certain that your vehicle’s headlights, taillights, and turn signals are in proper working condition. This not only helps you see better but also ensures that other drivers can see you clearly, allowing them to anticipate your actions. Keep your windows and windshields clean and free from obstructions to maximize your field of vision. Additionally, don’t forget to use your side mirrors and check your blind spots when changing lanes or parking, as this can significantly reduce the risk of collisions. Remember, the first step in preventing a hit and run incident is avoiding a collision in the first place.

Tip 3: Remain calm and collect information

If you’ve been hit, the most important thing to do is try to stay as calm as possible. In the event of a fleeing vehicle, try to gather as much information as you can, most importantly being the license plate number and the time of the incident. If possible, try to take note of the make and model of the car, color and any other distinguishing features as well as what direction the car went. Use your phone to get this information and immediately contact the police to report the hit-and-run. It’s also useful to check and see if there were any eye witnesses, as they can provide valuable information to both law enforcement and insurance agencies. While waiting for the police to arrive, take photos and videos of the scene of the accident, any damage caused to your vehicle and any debris left behind by the fleeing vehicle. Lastly, look for cameras in the area to see if the accident was caught on tape.

Tip 4: Stay where you are and report the accident

In the aftermath of a hit and run accident, the urge to pursue the fleeing vehicle may be strong, but resist it. Chasing after a hit and run driver can lead to dangerous situations and escalate the already stressful event. Instead, focus on securing your own well-being. Leave the investigation to the authorities who are trained to handle such situations. By staying at the scene and promptly reporting the accident, you demonstrate responsible behavior while ensuring that you aren’t inadvertently implicated in any wrongdoing. Prioritize your safety and cooperate with the authorities: this plays a pivotal role in resolving the case and maintaining a legal and ethical stance.

Tip 5: Contact your insurance agency

You’ll want to inform your insurance agency about the accident as soon as possible. Provide them with all of the details and documentation you were able to collect, including photos/videos, the police reports and eye witness statements. The more information there is, the more they’ll be able to help with your claim. You should also ensure that you have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage in your auto insurance policy as this coverage can help cover any repair costs or medical expenses if the hit-and-run driver is uninsured or cannot be identified.

Hit and run prevention resources and organizations

Various resources and organizations are dedicated to hit and run prevention and protection. These organizations offer educational materials, support services, and advocacy for victims of hit and run accidents. Some notable organizations include the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, and local law enforcement agencies. By accessing these resources, you can stay informed about hit and run prevention strategies, learn about your rights as a victim, and contribute to creating safer communities.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the risk of being involved in a hit and run incident, ensuring both the safety of your vehicle and yourself. Stay prepared and stay safe!

If you find yourself involved in a hit and run, Gambale Insurance Group is here to help. While auto insurance can’t deter you from getting in an accident, or prevent the responsible party from fleeing, it can help pay off medical bills or repair costs that can result from a serious crash.

Contact us today for more information.