Being involved in a motor vehicle accident can be very traumatic. Emotions like fear, worry and nervousness are often triggered the moment a collision occurs. This is a normal reaction, as many drivers have never been in these situations before. Pulling over to safety, safely exiting the vehicle to exchange information and speaking with other involved persons can be quite daunting.

What happens though, if you are hit and the driver flees the scene, leaving you in a state of peril? The first step is to stay calm. It is crucial to make an attempt to identify the vehicle that has impacted you. Try to catch the color, the make/model and most importantly, the license plate of the vehicle. In many situations, the vehicle drives away before you are able to have time to react. In that case, trying to remember as much as you can about the vehicle, if possible. It is crucial to call 911 as soon as this occurs. By memorializing the hit-and-run in a police report, you are doing yourself a favour if you decide to pursue legal proceedings. Also, urgent medical attention may be required, and that is your first priority.

Another useful tactic would be to ask nearby bystanders if they witnessed the accident. By having a third party corroborate your version of events, you are increasing your chances of identifying the vehicle that failed to remain at the scene.

As well, it my assist if the surrounding businesses and homes are checked for any available cctv camera recording of the incident.

After following the aforementioned steps, what is the course of action to take if the vehicle that hit you and the driver cannot be identified?

In cases where the vehicle and/or driver is not identified in an accident and you suffer injuries or damage to your vehicle, it is possible to make a claim on your own auto insurance policy. This is classified as uninsured/underinsured/unidentified motorist coverage (“UMC Coverage”) and ought to be utilized to recover damages. Every motorist in Ontario as UMC Coverage as part of their own auto policy. Pursuing a claim against your insurer can be complicated and requires legal input. After all, your insurer will instgage formal investigations and prepare its case against you to reduce it’s liability for your tort claim and damages caused by the escaped motorist.

Let the experienced professionals at Grillo Law P.C. work in your corner to deal with your insurer and help you in receiving the compensation you so justly deserve.