Tips for Gathering Evidence in Your Hit-and-Run Accident Case

There are many elements required to prove a hit-and-run accident case, and having the proper evidence is essential for your success in this type of lawsuit. An experienced attorney can help you gather the relevant hit-and-run evidence to ensure you’re successful in your hit-and-run lawsuit.

What evidence should be collected in a hit-and-run? 

Many different types of evidence should be collected in a hit-and-run case. As with most lawsuits, whether it’s personal injury, a slip and fall, or a hit-and-run, it’s best to be thorough. You never know what may help in your case, so never assume that any information is trivial. The smallest detail could make or break your lawsuit. This includes information pertaining to the people involved, any injury or property damage, and where and when the incident occurred.

What evidence is needed to convict in a hit-and-run case? 

In a hit-and-run case, the plaintiff bears the burden of proof, so it’s imperative to collect as much hit-and-run evidence as possible. Some of the most useful evidence in a hit-and-run case includes: 

• Witness information: Collecting witness information is essential for evidence because witnesses can provide invaluable testimonies regarding the hit-and-run. An accident witness is likely to have a better recollection of the incident than the plaintiff due to the fact that the witness watched the incident unfold. Having names, phone numbers, and other contact information of the accident witnesses will allow the parties’ attorneys to contact them for any necessary depositions or to testify at trial. 

• Physical evidence: Collecting physical evidence from the accident can be very helpful in demonstrating the extent of the damage caused as a result of the incident. Physical evidence may consist of any objects that were destroyed in the accident, such as torn clothing or damaged cell phones.

• Photographs of the accident scene: Photographs of the accident scene can be fantastic evidence to display the aftermath of the incident and allow anyone who may not have been there to assess what occurred. This physical evidence can demonstrate the severity of the accident and allow the plaintiff to strengthen their argument.

• Medical records: Medical records can be crucial evidence during the discovery phase of a hit-and-run accident case. These records allow the plaintiff to show the severity of their injuries resulting from the accident while also proving lost income, medical bills, and loss of enjoyment of life. 

• Accident records: Accident records may include automobile repair bills resulting from the damage sustained during the accident. These records can help prove how bad the auto damage was. The defendant may be liable for any auto repair bills the plaintiff was required to pay following the accident.

• Police reports: Police reports are essential because they can help provide information likely to prove that the defendant was liable for causing the accident.

While these may be standard forms of evidence in a hit-and-run case, every accident is different, and your attorney may suggest other types of evidence. It’s important to discuss the incident in depth with your attorney to give them a strong understanding of the accident and what other evidence may be relevant.

What should I do after a hit-and-run accident?

It’s important to follow a specific protocol following a hit-and-run accident. The first thing anyone involved in a hit-and-run incident should do is remain at the scene of the accident. Call for emergency services to receive any necessary medical assistance and file a police report. Once you’re safe and receive medical assistance, you must contact your insurance provider and retain an experienced car accident attorney.

How can a hit-and-run accident attorney help?

Retaining a good hit-and-run accident attorney can be essential to your success in a hit-and-run accident lawsuit. If you’re in Florida, contact a Miami hit-and-run attorney from Berstein & Maryanoff to discuss your legal options regarding your case. A good hit-and-run attorney in Florida will help collect hit-and-run evidence to prove your case and reach a successful settlement. 

Sources:

Discovery Definition. (2023).
Evidence For Your Car Accident Case. (2023).
Meyer, S. (2023). What to do after a hit and run: 5 important steps you need to know.