Jan 17, 2023
Hit-and-run accidents occur on Alberta roadways daily. If you find yourself in one, do you know how to respond? Most motorists are unsure about the correct procedure. And it’s easy to understand why, as there are many potential reactions: Do you contact the police? Should you call your insurance provider first? Are you supposed to fill out a report? What do you do?
At Resolute Law Group, we are your litigation and car accident lawyers, and we’re here to help. This article offers the information you need to respond appropriately to a hit-and-run accident. Keep reading to learn more.
Should I Report a Hit-And-Run Car Accident to the Police?
Not every collision needs a police investigation. However, a few circumstances exist that do require a police report; they are as follows:
- The accident resulted in injury (in which case, contact your personal injury lawyer)
- Over $2000 in damages was sustained
- You believe the other driver was inebriated or involved in a crime
- The car accident was a hit-and-run
So yes, whether you are a witness or a victim of a hit-and-run, you should report the incident to the authorities.
Two Simple Ways to Report a Hit-And-Run Collision in Alberta
Two primary ways are available for filing a hit-and-run accident report in Alberta:
- Dial 911: Contact emergency personnel as soon as possible. Also, note the location and, if possible, any vehicle/driver information and witness testimonies.
- Submit a collision report at police headquarters: You’ll require as much accurate information as possible to complete this step. Ensure you have your driver’s license, registration certificate, and insurance ready, and information about the other vehicle and driver (vehicle plate and description, driver description, direction the vehicle fled, etc.)
8 Steps to Take After a Hit-And-Run in Alberta
There are numerous steps to follow if you’ve experienced a hit-and-run accident:
- Stay on the scene: Whether you’re at fault or not, It is illegal to flee an accident. So remain at the scene until the authorities arrive.
- Scan for injuries: If injuries are present, call for medical attention as soon as possible.
- Contact the police: If injuries have been sustained or damages exceed $2,000, you have a legal responsibility to contact the police and report the collision.
- Obtain contact information from witnesses: If a witness was present, ensure you get their personal contact information.
- Record the details of the accident: Take high-quality photos of the vehicles involved, record the weather conditions, and take note of the events that caused the collision. This information will help fill out an accurate and detailed police accident report.
- If required, contact tow truck services: Contact a tow truck if your car is damaged beyond functionality. You put yourself and others at risk if you decide to drive a compromised vehicle after an accident.
- Visit any police headquarters: As you arrive at the police precinct, you’ll need to complete an accident report. Adhere to the police instructions to complete your report.
- Call your advisor: Once you’ve completed your police report, call your advisor immediately. They can help you fill out the claims process if need be.
Next Step: Contact Resolute Law Group for Legal Assistance
A hit-and-run accident is a traumatic experience. But knowing what to do in such an event can alleviate some pressure and uncertainty. If you’ve been injured in a recent hit-and-run, slip, fall, or other types of bodily accident, we can help. At Resolute Law Group, we are a team of personal injury lawyers specializing in bodily injury claims.
You may be entitled to compensation if you’ve been injured in an accident. So contact us today to book a free consultation.