If you or a loved one has been in a hit-and-run accident, you might feel scared, confused, or unsure what to do next. At The Law Office of W. Shane Jennings, we understand how overwhelming this experience can be. This guide will walk you through the steps to take after a hit-and-run and explain why contacting an experienced car accident lawyer in Las Cruces right away can make all the difference. If you need help now, call us at 575‑308‑0308 for a free consultation.
What to Do Immediately After a Hit‑and‑Run
Stay Calm and Safe
Right after a hit‑and‑run, your first priority should be safety. Take a deep breath and stay as calm as possible.
If you are still in the road, move to a safe place nearby. Don’t chase the driver who hit you. This could make the situation more dangerous.
Sometimes people feel angry or want to go after the other driver, but you must resist that urge for everyone’s safety.
Call 911 Right Away
Even if you think your injuries are minor, call 911 right away. The police need to come to the scene so that an official report can be made. This report is important later on if you need to involve your insurance company or a car accident lawyer.
The dispatcher will:
- Send police to take your statement
- Dispatch medical help if needed
- Make a record of the hit‑and‑run incident
Write Down What You Remember
While you’re waiting for the police, try to remember as many details as possible about the other vehicle and driver. This will help law enforcement and your car accident lawyer later.
Ask yourself:
- What color was the vehicle?
- Did you see the license plate?
- What direction did they go?
Was there anything unique about the car (like a bumper sticker or dents)?
Write this down or make a quick voice memo on your phone. These details can be important!
Important Steps to Take After First Responders Leave
Document Everything You Can
After the police finish at the scene and you leave, start documenting everything you remember. This includes:
- Photos of the scene
- Pictures of your vehicle damage
- Pictures of any injuries
- Notes about your symptoms or pain
Your memory will fade over time, so the more you document now, the better it will help your car accident lawyer build your case.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even if you feel okay, go see a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash, internal bleeding, or soft‑tissue damage, might not show symptoms right away. A medical professional will check for injuries you might not notice yet.
Having a medical record also helps your car accident lawyer show how the accident affected your health.
Contact a Trusted Car Accident Lawyer
This step is one of the most important things you can do after a hit‑and‑run. A car accident lawyer knows the laws, the insurance process, and how to protect your rights. They can:
- Handle communication with insurance companies
- Help you collect evidence
- Make sure you receive fair compensation
- Advise you on what legal steps to take
Don’t try to handle everything on your own. Insurance companies often try to pay as little as possible. When you hire a car accident lawyer, you level the playing field.
How a Car Accident Lawyer Helps You
Investigating Your Case
A good car accident lawyer will not just rely on the police report. They dig deeper by:
- Interviewing witnesses
- Reviewing traffic camera footage
- Checking nearby businesses for video
- Reconstructing the accident scene
This kind of thorough investigation can help identify the driver who left the scene or strengthen your claim if another party is responsible.
Communicating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies want to settle quickly — often for much less than your case is worth. When you have a car accident lawyer by your side:
- You don’t have to deal with adjusters
- You avoid saying things that could hurt your claim
- Your lawyer negotiates for the compensation you deserve
Your only job should be focusing on recovery — let your lawyer handle the legal talking.
Helping You Understand Your Rights
Hit‑and‑run laws vary by state, and it can be confusing to know what applies to you. A car accident lawyer makes sure you understand:
- Your legal options
- Your rights under New Mexico law
- What compensation you might be eligible for
Whether it’s medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering, your lawyer makes sure nothing is missed.
Tips to Remember When Dealing With Insurance
- Don’t give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance without your lawyer present.
- Keep all medical bills and records in one place.
- Track time off work, transportation costs, and any other accident‑related expenses.
Checklist: What to Do After a Hit‑and‑Run
Here are the most important things to remember:
- Call 911 immediately
- Move to a safe location
- Write down details of the other vehicle
- Take photos of the scene
- Seek medical care
- Contact an experienced car accident lawyer
When You Can’t Find the Other Driver
Sometimes the driver who caused the accident is never found. This makes things more complicated, but you still have options. Your car accident lawyer can help you explore:
- Uninsured motorist coverage on your own insurance
- Personal injury claims
- Other legal avenues for compensation
Your lawyer will explain your best options so you don’t feel stuck or alone.
Why Time Matters
You may have heard that there are deadlines for filing legal claims. It’s true. In New Mexico, if you wait too long, you could lose your right to compensation.
That’s why calling a car accident lawyer as soon as possible is important. They keep track of deadlines and make sure everything is filed on time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are mistakes many people make — and how a car accident lawyer helps you avoid them:
- Talking to insurance before talking to a lawyer
- Posting about the accident on social media
- Signing forms without understanding them
- Waiting too long to seek medical care
Your lawyer knows exactly what to do — and what not to do — to protect your rights.
Understanding Your Next Steps
After a hit‑and‑run accident, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Knowing what to do next can make the process less stressful. Start by documenting everything, seeking medical attention, and keeping track of all accident-related expenses.
Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer early on can help you understand your options, protect your rights, and make sure nothing is overlooked. Being proactive gives you the best chance for a fair outcome.
Car Accident Lawyer in Las Cruces, NM
A hit‑and‑run accident can turn your world upside down in an instant. But you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. From calling the police and documenting the scene to seeking medical care and hiring a seasoned car accident lawyer, each step you take matters.
Remember, a dedicated car accident lawyer in Las Cruces from The Law Office of W. Shane Jennings can help guide you through the legal maze, protect your rights, and work to get you the compensation you deserve.
If you need help now, don’t hesitate — call 575‑308‑0308 today. We’re ready to stand with you and support you through every step of your recovery.