Getting into an accident is scary enough, but when the other driver flees the scene, it can leave you shaken, injured, and wondering what to do next. While we hope people will do the responsible thing and take ownership of their role in an accident, this is not always the case.
With thousands of hit and run accidents in Minnesota annually, you’re not alone. Trying to figure out how to deal with a hit and run is tough, but we will outline the specific steps you can take at the scene and afterward to help you with a claim down the line.
At Meshbesher & Spence, we have been fighting for Minnesotans injured in hit and run accidents and more for over 60 years. We are proud of our state and the people that inhabit it, and we have committed ourselves to doing what we can to make Minnesota a safer place for everyone.
If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident, our car accident attorneys can support you in getting to the bottom of who hit you and from there, holding them accountable. Get in touch with us online or call (612) 339-9121 today to find out how we can help you navigate this tough time.
Minnesota Hit And Run Accident Statistics
Like many other states across the country, Minnesota also experiences a concerning number of hit and runs every year.
A hit and run is characterized by one person fleeing the scene of the accident without providing their information or even stopping at all. This lack of identifiers can make it extremely difficult for other people to identify the party responsible for the incident.
According to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety’s Office of Traffic Safety, hit-and-run incidents made up 11% of all car accidents in the state in 2022. Here’s a breakdown of the hit and run accidents that year:
- 12 fatal accidents
- 976 crashes that resulted in injuries
- 7,027 property damage only crashes
- 8,025 total hit and runs
Sadly, there have been more than 150 deaths in Minnesota as a result of hit and run accidents since 2007.
How to Deal With a Hit and Run
Getting into a hit and run accident is something most people don’t expect to happen to them. However, these incidents are more common than you might think. That’s why it’s important to be proactive and know what to do after a hit and run in Minnesota.
Take Down Identifying Features
Immediately after the accident, it’s normal to feel disoriented or shaken up. Despite this, try your best to take down any identifying features of the other car before they drive away. The more details you can collect, the better your chances of tracking down the responsible party. Here are some helpful specifics to note:
- Make and model.
- Color.
- License plate number.
- Damage.
- Unique features, like any decals, bumper stickers, or distinguishing marks.
- Time and location.
- The direction the other car went.
That said, the license plate number is one of the most crucial pieces of information you can gather after a hit and run. It’s often more reliable than your own description of the vehicle. If you’re concerned about what to do in a hit and run in Minnesota, collecting these details can make a huge difference.
Plus, having the license plate allows law enforcement to quickly identify the vehicle involved. They can issue a “be on the lookout” alert to other officers in the area, significantly increasing the chances of locating the driver.
Call 911
Next, don’t hesitate to call 911. Even if nobody seems hurt, it’s important to report the accident. The police can document what happened and create an official police report, which you’ll need for your claim later on.
A police report helps officially record what happened. This report is really important for proving your injuries and will be useful if you end up needing to negotiate with insurance or decide to take legal action.
Speak With Any Witnesses
Try to talk to as many witnesses as possible, the more, the better. Bystanders can offer crucial information that could significantly aid your case.
For example, they might have observed the other vehicle’s speed, direction, or any unusual behavior leading up to the incident. Additionally, they may have noticed specific details about the driver or the car that you didn’t catch at the moment.
When speaking to witnesses, ask them if they would be willing to share their contact information so you can follow up later.
Seek Medical Attention
You should have your injuries looked at after an accident, even if they seem minor. Having documentation of your injuries can substantiate your claims about how the accident affected your health and well-being.
Plus, medical bills will help outline the costs associated with your injuries, making it easier to pursue compensation.
Having an attorney on your side in the aftermath of a hit and run can be a great asset. A legal team has the resources to investigate the accident thoroughly, leaving no stone unturned. They can access police reports, interview witnesses, and even use accident reconstruction experts to piece together what happened.
At Meshbesher & Spence, we have decades of experience successfully handling accident cases and are here to support you during these uncertain times. Get in touch with us online or call (612) 339-9121 to chat about how we might be able to assist you in a hit and run case.
What Happens After a Hit and Run?
Once you have completed the steps described above, you should report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
In Minnesota, the uninsured motorist provision is particularly relevant for hit-and-run claims because it allows you to seek compensation when the other driver cannot be identified or does not have insurance.
However, dealing with insurance companies can be tricky and downright frustrating, as they may not be willing to offer the full extent of the financial support you need for the damages you experienced.
That’s why you might want to think about hiring a lawyer. They can help you understand your options, make sure you get the compensation you need, and handle any disputes that may arise with your or the other party’s insurance company.
A lawyer can be a valuable guide to run you through the next steps on what to do after a hit and run in Minnesota.
Meshbesher & Spence: Trusted Minnesota Car Accident Attorneys
After experiencing a hit and run, you may feel completely lost. One moment, life feels normal, and the next, that security is ripped away from you. Wondering what to do in a hit and run in Minnesota? It’s natural to feel scared and alone after such a shocking event.
At Meshbesher & Spence, our team has over 60 years of experience handling vehicular accident claims in Minnesota and beyond, including hit and run claims. We have recovered over $1.1 billion for clients, all in the name of standing up for those who have been wrongly hurt by someone else’s negligence.
With thousands of hit and runs in Minnesota every year, the police may be stretched too thin, and they might not have enough time to properly investigate your hit-and-run accident, which is why having a lawyer can really help you get the support and attention you need.
Partner with the law firm Minnesotans have trusted time and time again; contact Meshbesher & Spence online or call (612) 339-9121 today.
Proudly Representing Minnesota Residents
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