Discovering that your parked car has been hit or being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a distressing experience. Not only do you have to deal with the damage to your vehicle, but you may also face injuries, financial losses, and the frustration of not knowing who is responsible. At Instant Assist, we specialise in no win no fee car accident claims, including hit-and-run cases, to help you recover the compensation you deserve. This article explains what to do after a hit-and-run and how Instant Assist can support you through the process.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver hits your car (whether parked or moving) and leaves the scene without providing their details. This is a criminal offence under the Road Traffic Act 1988, as drivers are legally required to stop and exchange information after an accident.
Hit-and-run incidents can leave you feeling helpless, but there are steps you can take to protect your rights and pursue compensation.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run
1. Stay Calm and Assess the Damage
- Check your car for visible damage and take photos from multiple angles.
- Note the time, date, and location of the incident.
2. Look for Evidence
- Check for witnesses who may have seen the accident and ask for their contact details.
- Look for CCTV cameras in the area and request footage if possible.
- Search for any debris or paint marks that could help identify the other vehicle.
3. Report the Incident to the Police
- Hit-and-run accidents must be reported to the police. Call 101 (non-emergency) or report the incident online.
- Provide as much detail as possible, including photos, witness statements, and any evidence you’ve gathered.
- The police will give you a crime reference number, which you’ll need for your insurance claim.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
- Inform your insurer about the incident, even if you don’t plan to make a claim.
- Provide all relevant details, including the police reference number and evidence.
5. Consider Repair Options
- If the other driver is untraceable, you may need to claim through your own insurance (if you have comprehensive coverage). Be aware that this could affect your no-claims bonus.
- If the damage is minor, you may choose to pay for repairs yourself to avoid making a claim.
How Instant Assist Can Help with Hit-and-Run Claims
At Instant Assist, we understand how frustrating hit-and-run accidents can be. Our team of experienced solicitors is here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist:
1. No Win No Fee Guarantee
- We work on a no win no fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about upfront costs or hidden fees.
- If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t pay a penny in legal fees.
2. Expert Legal Support
- Our solicitors specialise in car accident claims, including hit-and-run cases.
- We’ll help you gather evidence, such as CCTV footage, witness statements, and police reports, to build a strong case.
3. Compensation for Your Losses
- We can help you claim for:
- Vehicle repairs or replacement.
- Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.
- Loss of earnings due to time off work.
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
4. Personalised Service
- We take the time to understand your unique situation and tailor our approach to meet your needs.
- Our team is available to answer your questions and provide guidance throughout the process.
How to Make a No Win No Fee Hit-and-Run Claim with Instant Assist
Making a hit-and-run claim with Instant Assist is simple and stress-free. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Contact Instant Assist
- Get in touch with us via phone, email, or our online contact form.
- Provide details about the hit-and-run, including when and where it happened, and any injuries or damage sustained.
Step 2: Free Initial Consultation
- We’ll assess your case during a free, no-obligation consultation.
- If your claim is viable, we’ll explain the next steps and guide you through the process.
Step 3: Gather Evidence
- Our team will help you gather evidence to support your claim, such as:
- Photos of the damage and accident scene.
- Witness statements.
- CCTV footage.
- Police reports and crime reference numbers.
Step 4: Submit Your Claim
- We’ll handle all the paperwork and submit your claim to the relevant parties.
- Our solicitors will negotiate with your insurance company or the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) to secure compensation.
Step 5: Receive Your Compensation
- If your claim is successful, you’ll receive your compensation, and our fees will be covered.
- If your claim is unsuccessful, you won’t pay any legal fees.
What Can You Claim For?
With Instant Assist, you can claim compensation for a wide range of losses and expenses, including:
- Vehicle Repairs or Replacement: Covering the cost of repairing or replacing your car.
- Medical Expenses: Reimbursement for treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Loss of Earnings: Compensation for income lost due to time off work.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Travel Expenses: Costs incurred for travel to medical appointments or vehicle repair centres.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What if the other driver is never found?
- If the other driver is untraceable, you may be able to claim through the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB), which compensates victims of uninsured or untraced drivers.
2. How long do I have to make a claim?
- In the UK, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to make a claim. However, it’s best to start the process as soon as possible.
3. What if I was partially at fault?
- You may still be able to claim compensation under the principle of contributory negligence, where your compensation is reduced to reflect your share of the blame.
4. How much compensation will I receive?
- The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, the extent of the damage, and other factors. We’ll provide an estimate during your free consultation.
Why Choose Instant Assist?
At Instant Assist, we’re committed to providing expert legal support and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Our no win no fee service removes the financial risk of pursuing a claim, so you can focus on recovery.
Contact Instant Assist Today
If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, don’t face it alone. Instant Assist is here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us take the stress out of your claim.
Instant Assist: Your trusted partner for no win no fee car accident claims. Let us fight for the justice you deserve.
