MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota. Chrissy Teigen emerged unhurt from a recent hit and run car accident in Hollywood. Teen Vogue and other news outlets reported that the celebrity was unharmed in the crash. Fortunately, Hollywood police were able to track down the suspect responsible for the accident.
The incident fortunately resulted in no injuries, but individuals in Minneapolis, Minnesota may be wondering: what are hit and run accidents? And, what are your rights if you’ve been involved in a hit and run crash?
A hit and run accident is a crash where a driver hits another vehicle or pedestrian and leaves the scene of the accident without stopping. Under the law, individuals involved in any kind of crash are required to stop, assist victims, and exchange information.
Failure to provide other victims in an accident with proper identification, contact information, insurance information, or failure to render assistance to those who are injured, is against the law. In Minnesota, individuals who leave the scene of an accident can face felony charges and fines up to $5000.
But what rights do you have if you are the victim of a hit and run? First of all, stop and take note of the scene. Of course, you’ll want to immediately render aid to any injured passengers or pedestrians and call for help. However, if you can record the make, model, and color of the car that collided with you, this can help police identify the other person involved if they leave the scene. If you can record the license plate number, this can also be helpful. When making an accident report, you or the police can get information from witnesses at the scene. In some cases, streets or businesses may have cameras recording the street or parking lot. Ask business and ask the police if there may be the possibility that there could be a video recording of the accident.
After you have made the police report, you should report the accident to your insurance company. Your insurance company’s uninsured motorist coverage may be able to cover your damages. States also have crime victim funds that can compensate you or your loved ones for injuries not covered by insurance. Hit and run accidents are considered criminal acts.
What you should never do after a hit and run accident is try to follow the driver who hit you or try to confront this driver. Individuals commit hit and run crimes for many reasons. If you’ve been involved in an accident, put your safety and the safety of your loved ones first, and wait for the police to come and help. The police can investigate the case and track down the suspect. Performing a high-speed chase of your own will not only endanger your life, but possibly threaten the lives of other drivers on the road.
A personal injury lawyer in Minneapolis, Minnesota may be able to help you protect your rights and collect a recovery from insurance following your accident. The Law Office of Martin T. Montilino is a qualified car accident lawyer who works closely with victims and families, helping them get the recovery they may deserve. If you have anymore questions about what to do after a hit and run, you can find more guides online to expand your knowledge. Visit our firm at https://martinmontilino.com/ to learn more about your rights.