TL;DR

A hit and run occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without providing identification or offering assistance.
Stay calm, document the scene, and call the police immediately.
Drivers ed programs, like those at Get Drivers Ed, emphasize responsible driving and how to handle accidents legally and ethically.

Hit and run accidents can be a driver's worst nightmare. Whether you're the victim or an unwitting party to such an event, knowing what steps to take is crucial. Drivers ed courses like the ones offered by Get Drivers Ed emphasize the importance of responsible driving and handling these situations legally and ethically.

What Is A Hit and Run?

A hit and run accident occurs when a driver collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, or property and then leaves the scene without stopping to provide identification or offer assistance. Such actions are not only unethical but also illegal in most jurisdictions.

Street racing, drunk driving, and distracted driving are all potential causes of hit and run accidents. It’s critical to understand how to handle these situations responsibly to avoid further legal and personal consequences.

Steps to Take After a Hit and Run

1. Stay Calm and Safe

Panic can exacerbate the situation. The first step is to stay calm and focus on ensuring your safety. Park in a safe location, turn on your hazard lights, and if possible, move the vehicle out of the way of traffic.

If you’re able to do so safely, check for injuries to yourself, passengers, or pedestrians. If anyone is hurt, immediately call 911 for emergency medical assistance.

2. Document the Scene

Gather as much information as possible about the accident. If you witnessed the incident, try to remember details about the vehicle and driver involved. Write down or photograph any identifying features of the other vehicle, such as:

The license plate number (even a partial number can help)
Make, model, and color of the car
Any damage the vehicle may have sustained

If there are witnesses nearby, ask for their contact information as their statements can be valuable for the police report.

Get Drivers Ed teaches students how to react calmly in emergency situations. Being prepared in advance can help you handle stressful situations like a hit and run accident more effectively.

Learn more about handling accidents responsibly in our blog.

3. Call the Police

It’s important to report the incident to the police immediately. They will guide you through the next steps, take official statements, and help with an investigation if needed. In many jurisdictions, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, and the police will work to locate the individual responsible.

Provide as much detail as you can about the accident, including the location, time, and any observations you made about the other vehicle or driver. Having this information will help them in their investigation.

If you're unsure about how to proceed legally, you can also consult the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s guidelines

4. Contact Your Insurance

After the police have been notified, be sure to contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the hit and run. Provide them with the accident report and any additional information you’ve gathered.

Insurance companies often require a police report to process the claim, so having this in hand will help your case. It's important to act quickly to ensure that your claim is handled appropriately.

Find tips on reporting accidents to your insurance.

Prevention is Key

Drivers ed programs like those at Get Drivers Ed educate young drivers on the importance of responsibility on the road. Knowledge, awareness, and preparation are essential to avoid being on either side of a hit and run situation. Understanding your responsibilities and how to handle accidents can prevent dangerous situations from escalating.

Get Drivers Ed offers courses designed to help students navigate the complexities of the road with confidence and responsibility. We cover everything from defensive driving techniques to handling emergencies.

Start your online course today to learn more about safe driving practices.

Conclusion: Be Prepared and Drive Responsibly

Knowing how to handle a hit and run accident can make all the difference in staying safe and managing the situation legally. The most important steps are staying calm, documenting the scene, contacting the police, and reporting the incident to your insurance company.

Get Drivers Ed is dedicated to teaching responsible, safe driving habits. Our courses not only cover how to drive safely but also provide valuable lessons on how to react in emergency situations. If you want to deepen your understanding of driving and make informed decisions on the road, sign up for our courses.

Learn more about The Benefits Of Defensive Driving Reduce Risks And Accidents.

Don’t risk your safety or legal standing—take the first step towards becoming a confident, responsible driver with Get Drivers Ed.