If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident caused by another motorist who did not stop, here’s what you need to know if someone runs you off the road and causes you to crash. While you will likely be in shock, try to remain calm. There are several things you can do to help your situation:
- Call the police authorities and report the incident
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Talk to witnesses
- Gather evidence at the scene
- Seek free legal advice about the accident with a car accident attorney
Pursuing compensation after a “phantom driver” car accident can be complex when proving fault. As such, we have prepared the following guidance so you have a plan in place if you or a loved one is injured in this way.
Reporting the Accident to the Police
Failing to stop after an accident is an offense. However, it may be possible the other driver was distracted or unaware they caused you to run off the road. If possible, find somewhere safe to pull over and contact the local police to file an accident report.
Try to remember as much as you can about the other vehicle. This can help the police identify the other driver and is helpful for making your accident claim.
For a free legal consultation, call 404-214-2001
Protecting Your Health
To safeguard your health, it is vital you seek medical attention if you or any passengers suffer an injury. Unfortunately, many people skip this step if there are no apparent signs of trauma, only to suffer symptoms in the hours or days following the crash.
Adrenaline can mask non-visible injuries such as concussions or whiplash, so it is important to protect yourself from further harm. In addition, from a legal standpoint, medical records can link the accident and your injuries, making for a more robust legal case when pursuing compensation.
A Witness’s Account Can Help Prove what Happened
After the accident, eyewitness testimony could be crucial to proving your case for the following reasons:
- Witnesses may have noticed additional details about the at-fault driver or their vehicle
- Their account of the accident mirrors your version of events
Be sure to obtain the name and contact details of anyone who saw what happened. The information a witness can provide may help the police locate the other motorist faster and strengthen the evidence you have to build a claim with your insurer.
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
How to Gather Evidence at an Accident Scene
If it is safe and you are able, collecting evidence at the accident scene can help show what happened. Use your smartphone to record or photograph the following:
- Injuries you or your passengers sustained
- Damage to the vehicle or other property
- Traffic and weather conditions
- Skid marks on the road
- Nearby buildings with CCTV
- Nearby traffic signs, signals, or controls
The evidence you collect at the scene can help your attorney prove what happened. In addition, it may be possible for your lawyer to access video surveillance from nearby buildings, which again helps strengthen your case.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Benefit From Free Legal Advice to Learn Your Legal Position
If the police can identify the other motorist, you will likely have your damages covered by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. However, if they cannot be found, you may have uninsured coverage on your policy. While it is not a legal requirement for Georgia drivers to carry this optional coverage, insurers must offer it.
A car accident attorney will be able to help you understand your legal options for seeking compensation in lieu of medical bills, lost wages, and other losses related to the accident. Further, they can help you compile the evidence you need to present to an insurer to prove your case and calculate the damages you sustained from your injuries.
Insurance Companies May Seek Ways to Pay Out as Little as Possible
Proving your case after a “phantom driver” accident can be challenging. Insurers may attempt to place the blame on you to lower the amount of compensation they pay. In this situation, the best offense is a good defense. An attorney can help you navigate the claim process, mitigate any allegations against you, and avoid errors that could harm your case.
Besides those mentioned earlier, other benefits of hiring legal representation include having someone fight for you and manage every aspect of your case, namely:
- Gathering evidence to support your case
- Proving your case
- Calculating the financial, emotional, and physical impact of the accident
- Negotiating for a fair settlement for your injuries and other related losses
- Ensuring you file your lawsuit in time per Georgia law (C.G.A § 9-3-33)
Discuss Your Situation with a Team Member at no Cost
If you were injured after another driver ran you off the road and caused you to crash, the attorneys at Kaine Law can help. With multiple decades of experience, we are proud of our track record of delivering results and outstanding service to our clients. To learn more about your legal options, call and discuss your situation at no cost or obligation at (404) 214-2001.
Call or text 404-214-2001 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
