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That’s just rotten luck. You return to your car to discover that someone has sideswiped your vehicle in a parking lot and left without a trace. It’s a hit-and-run crash, and it’s a big-time bummer. However, by keeping a few things in mind, you can take a lot of pain out of the situation. 

Keep these things in mind if a hit-and-run crash affects you or your vehicle

Tragically, hit-and-run crashes are commonplace in the United States. Alarmingly, AAA reports that a hit-and-run happens about every 43 seconds. That’s right; someone has an accident and flees the scene more often than the length of time it takes you to microwave a cup of coffee. Yikes.

Don’t fret, though. Along with carrying sufficient insurance, you can combat the headaches of a hit-and-run crash with these tips. 

  • Don’t put off seeking medical attention, even if you seem fine
  • Call the police regardless of circumstance
  • Document everything
  • Don’t leave the scene
  • Resist the urge to follow a runaway driver

Should a driver hit your car and flee the scene, you might fixate on the damage to your car. While troubling, you are the priority. If you suspect any injuries, seek medical attention. Even if you seem fine, it’s prudent to seek a doctor’s opinion after any crash.

In that same vein, call the police after a hit-and-run. This is important for filing a report, dealing with insurance, and possibly holding an offender accountable. Also, don’t forget to document everything. Take extensive pictures of any vehicle involved, not just your own.

Finally, resist the desire to leave the scene of the incident. Stick around until the police finish and all parties have insurance information. Incidentally, leaving a scene before the police show up can have legal consequences. 

Of course, there are at least two sides to every story. Don’t be the driver willing to hit a car, object, or pedestrian and flee the scene. Doing so isn’t just morally wrong, it carries steep penalties. Depending on your state, a misdemeanor crash could mean a year in prison or expensive fines. Worse yet, if your actions result in injury or death, you could be looking at felony charges.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and Humvees. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with expertise covering everything from sports cars and electric motorcycles to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Austin. He also studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC). When he’s not working, you can find Erik on his motorcycle or out for a spirited drive.

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