1. Stay Safe First
Your safety comes first. Do not try to chase the fleeing driver. If you're in a vehicle, pull over to a safe location. If you're on foot, move to a sidewalk or shoulder.
2. Call 911 Immediately
Report the accident to emergency services. Provide as many details as possible, including:
- Exact location (street names, intersections, nearby landmarks)
- Description of the fleeing vehicle (make, model, color, license plate)
- The direction the vehicle went
- Whether anyone is injured
3. Assist Victims If It's Safe
If it's safe to approach the victim, check if they are conscious and breathing. Avoid moving them unless there's immediate danger. Offer comfort until help arrives.
4. Document Everything
Use your smartphone to:
- Take photos of the vehicles, license plates, skid marks, debris, and road signs
- Record a video describing what happened
- Note the time, date, and exact location
5. Look for Traffic and Security Cameras
Traffic and security cameras are powerful tools in solving hit-and-run cases. Check the area for:
- Traffic safety cameras: These are often installed at intersections, highways, or in school zones to monitor speed and red light violations. Use PhotoEnforced.com to locate nearby camera points that may have recorded the incident.
- Business surveillance cameras: Gas stations, convenience stores, and other commercial properties may have cameras pointed toward the road.
- Residential security systems: Ask nearby homeowners if they have Ring, Nest, or other video doorbells that may have captured footage.
Let police know about all potential cameras. Law enforcement can request or subpoena footage that could show the crash or fleeing driver.
6. Talk to Police on the Scene
Give officers all the information and media you collected. This includes:
- Photos and videos
- Notes or recordings
- Your contact information for follow-up
7. Be Ready to Follow Up
As a witness, your testimony may be critical. Police might ask you to identify suspects, provide additional statements, or testify in court. Stay available and cooperative throughout the process.
8. Understand Hit-and-Run Insurance Coverage
If you're the victim—or assisting someone who is—it’s important to understand how insurance can come into play in a hit-and-run accident. Here are some key points:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: This typically covers medical expenses and car repairs if the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured. Many U.S. states require or offer UM coverage as part of a standard auto policy.
- Collision Coverage: Pays for damages to your vehicle after a hit-and-run, regardless of who was at fault. However, this often comes with a deductible.
- Medical Payments (MedPay): Can help cover injury-related costs for you and your passengers, even if the driver isn’t found.
- Police Report Required: Most insurers require a police report within 24 hours to process a hit-and-run claim.
Tip: Contact your insurance provider immediately after the incident. Even if you’re only a witness, your dashcam footage or testimony may help someone file a successful claim.
Bonus Tip: Use Online Tools to Help Identify Evidence
You can use tools like:
- PhotoEnforced.com – Identify red light and speed camera locations in your city
- Nextdoor or Citizen app – Alert your community and check if others saw the same event
Why This Matters
According to AAA, hit-and-runs cause over 2,000 deaths in the U.S. each year. Many drivers go unpunished without witness help or traffic footage. Your quick actions—and knowledge of local safety camera networks and insurance policies—can help bring justice and protect others on the road.
Related Articles:
- Red Light Camera Locations
- What Speed Cameras Reveal About a Community
- How to Get Traffic Video Footage?
Want to help improve traffic safety in your area? Submit or update a camera location at PhotoEnforced.com.