Seeing a hit-and-run happen before your eyes can be an incredibly unsettling experience. It is also normal to consider driving or walking on and not getting involved.
However, since leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, what you do next can help the police find the fleeing driver. This can also help the victim get justice.
If you find yourself in this situation, you can make all the difference by taking the right steps.
Safety Comes First
If you witness a hit-and-run, you are essentially ‘involved’ in the accident. Your statement can prove that the victim was not to blame for the crash. You may even remember what the at-fault driver’s car or license plate looked like.
But before you get into these details, you must ensure that you and everyone else involved is safe. For instance, if you are driving when the hit-and-run happens, pull over to the side of the road if possible. Ensure your car is not in the way of oncoming traffic and does not pose a hazard to road users.
If you are walking when the accident happens, move to a secure location away from traffic before you do anything else.
Even if you are upset and angry with the at-fault driver for their actions, you must resist the urge to chase after them in your car. Doing this can put your life in danger.
Also, if the fleeing driver happens to crash their car in an attempt to get away, do not intervene directly.
Instead, call 911 and check whether there are any injuries to the victim and other driver. Do not be aggressive or confrontational when speaking with the at-fault driver.
At this point, you must ensure that the police and first responders know where to go. When you speak to a 911 dispatcher, be clear about the location of the accident. If you are trained in first aid, let the dispatcher guide you on how to help those injured.
If you are unfamiliar with the area, try finding landmarks or street names that will help the authorities get to the scene faster.
It is important to describe the nature of the accident. If the other driver fled, you must inform the 911 dispatcher so the responders know what to expect. You should also inform the dispatcher of injuries, fatalities, and property damage.
Gather Information to Help the Victim
The accident victim should gather evidence and information on the scene, and you can, too. The more information you compile, the easier it may be for the police to track down the responsible driver. However, it will only be possible for the victim to gather evidence if they are not seriously injured.
Do your best to remember a part of the license plate number. Even if you just remember that the plate is from another state or a weird color, it can help.
If possible, tell the police the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, and color. You can only do this if you get a good look at the car or truck.
If you glimpsed the driver, tell the police what you remember about them. Any small detail can help, such as whether the driver had blond hair or was wearing a cap.
It would also be helpful if you could point the police in the direction the driver took off. Most importantly, you should tell the police everything you remember about the accident, including the point of impact.
If it is safe at the accident scene, take pictures with your phone or record video footage. Even if something seems unimportant at the time, get a picture or video of it.
Provide a Statement to the Police
When the police arrive, you can give them the information you gathered. But do not bombard them. Allow the responding officer to do what they need to secure the scene.
When you are asked to give a statement, be detailed but brief. Only give the facts – do not engage in speculation. If other witnesses are present, you can encourage them to share what they saw but do not try to force them to do so.
Look for Surveillance Cameras
While you wait to speak to the responding officer, see if you can spot security or traffic cameras. These cameras may have captured the hit-and-run incident.
If you find a camera, let the officer know so they can follow up on the lead.
Offer Your Assistance to the Victim
Being in a hit-and-run is most often very overwhelming for victims. If they are conscious and can talk to you, consider offering help. Give them your contact information so they can get a witness statement from you later if they need it.
Ask them if you can help them take photos and videos so they can have evidence to file a legal case.
Even if you can only offer emotional support while you wait for emergency responders, do so. Sometimes, the help of a bystander allows victims to calm down and think more clearly about what to do.
Follow Up With Authorities
You can also follow up with the police after the accident if necessary. You may be asked for additional information later, so ensure the police know how to contact you. If you captured videos and photos, give them a copy.
Do Not Neglect Your Own Emotional Well-Being
Witnessing a severe accident or hit-and-run can be very traumatizing. This is especially true if the accident involves serious injuries or fatalities.
If you experience signs of anxiety or distress after the accident because of what you saw, consider seeking help. You can lean on a friend, family member, or support group to help you work through your emotions.
Your Role as a Witness Is Crucial
Hit-and-run accidents are considered serious offenses in Maryland. The at-fault driver may be charged with a misdemeanor or felony and have to pay a massive fine. They could even end up in jail and have their license revoked.
Hit-and-run drivers must be held liable for their recklessness. As a witness, you can ensure this happens. It can also ensure that victims get the justice and compensation they deserve.
If you know what to do after a hit-and-run, you can provide much-needed assistance to a victim. Your actions can help make Maryland’s roads safer in the long run.
