Last Updated 4/25/2024

Experiencing a hit and run accident can be a disorienting and distressing situation. Knowing the necessary steps to take can help you protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Learn what to do after a hit and run accident in Iowa from experienced Iowa car accident injury attorneys.

Prioritize Your Safety and Health

The most important thing after a hit and run accident should be your safety and health. Seek medical attention for any injuries you or your passengers may have sustained. Once you’re in a stable condition, proceed with the following steps.

Avoid Chasing the Driver

It’s natural to feel anger and frustration after being the victim of a hit and run accident. However, resist the urge to chase down the fleeing driver. Chasing them can escalate the situation and put yourself and others at risk. Instead, try to remain calm and focus on gathering information, and remember the events leading up to the accident.

Collect Information

Collect as much information as possible about the accident as soon as it’s safe to do so. This includes:

- The make and model of the vehicle

- The license plate number

- A description of the driver

- Names and contact information of any witnesses

This information will be invaluable for both law enforcement and your insurance claim.

Contact Law Enforcement

Immediately contact the police to report the hit and run accident. Provide them with all the details and information you’ve gathered. The police will create a report documenting the incident, which will be crucial for your insurance claim and any legal proceedings.

While waiting for the police to arrive, take photos or videos of the accident scene and the damages to your vehicle. These visual records can serve as additional evidence to support your case.

Seek Legal Representation

Navigating the aftermath of a hit and run accident can be complex, especially when it comes to seeking compensation for your losses. Consulting with a knowledgeable car accident attorney in Iowa is essential to understand your legal options.

An experienced attorney can help you pursue compensation through avenues such as uninsured motorist claims or, if the at-fault driver is identified, filing a claim against their insurance. They will guide you through the process, advocate for your rights, and work to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

The Iowa injury lawyers at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies. That's why we provide this FREE book; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 641-792-3595 to order your free accident book today.


Read Next

Five Most Common Causes of Car Wrecks in Iowa

The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents

Systems That Prove Fault In Iowa Car Accidents

Corey Walker
Connect with me
With over 28 years legal experience, Corey has been recognized for his work as an injury attorney.