How to Report a Hit and Run in Miami

To report a hit and run in Miami, you need to contact local law enforcement immediately by calling 911. 

Reporting the hit and run incident as soon as possible helps authorities locate the responsible driver, gets you in touch with emergency medical services, and protects your legal rights. If you have questions or need assistance with your hit and run accident case, a Miami hit and run accident lawyer can provide the guidance you need. 

Essential Information to Provide When Reporting a Hit and Run to 911

When you call 911 to report a hit and run in Miami, make sure to provide the dispatcher with the following information:

• Your Exact Location: Include the street names, intersections, or nearby landmarks
• Description of the Hit and Run Vehicle: Mention the make, model, color, and any visible damage
• License Plate Number: If you noticed it, share the full or partial license plate number
• Direction of Travel: Indicate which direction the vehicle was heading when it fled the scene
• Witness Information: Provide the contact details of any witnesses who saw the incident
• Injuries: Report any injuries sustained by you or others so that medical assistance can be prioritized

By giving clear and detailed information, you can help law enforcement respond effectively and increase the chances of locating the driver.

Crucial Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident

After a hit and run accident, there are additional steps you can take. You should focus on protecting your health. Begin by seeking immediate medical attention. When you call 911, be sure to mention if you or others have suffered injuries and whether you need an ambulance. Don’t make assumptions about your health. Either go to the emergency room of the nearest hospital or schedule to see your primary doctor as soon as possible. 

Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and a medical evaluation creates important documentation for your case.

Document What You Can From the Accident Scene

Next, document the scene by taking photographs of your vehicle, any visible injuries, and the surrounding area. This evidence can be crucial when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action later. 

As stated above, you should gather contact information from any witnesses who can provide statements about the incident. Witnesses can corroborate your story, but they can also add details of the accident from another perspective. 

Informing Your Insurance Company About the Hit and Run

Eventually, you will need to notify your insurance company about the hit and run accident. However, as a law firm, we advise allowing a Miami car accident lawyer to speak on your behalf. 

If you do contact your insurance company before speaking with a lawyer, be truthful and detailed in your report, but avoid making any assumptions about fault. This advice also applies to speaking with the police when they arrive at the accident scene. Additionally, you should stay off social media for the time being. 

The reason we advise our clients to be so guarded is that once the insurance companies get involved, they will use any information they can find against you that they can. If you follow these basic steps, it will help to ensure your health and strengthen your ability to seek compensation for your damages.

What to Do if the Hit and Run Driver Cannot Be Located

If the police are unable to locate the hit and run driver in Miami, you still have options to cover your medical bills, lost income, and other damages. First, check your own auto insurance policy for coverage under your uninsured motorist (UM) provision. UM coverage is designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault driver cannot be identified or lacks sufficient insurance.

According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), if you have personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, it will cover a portion of your medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault. Additionally, you may be able to file a claim under your collision coverage for vehicle repairs.

In some cases, it might be possible to pursue compensation through other avenues, such as filing a claim against your health insurance for medical expenses. Consulting with a Miami personal injury lawyer can help you explore all available options to ensure you receive the fair compensation you deserve, even if the responsible driver is never found. 

Types of Damages You Can Claim After a Hit and Run Accident in Miami

After a hit and run accident, you may be entitled to claim various types of damages to help cover your losses. These damages can include:

• Medical bills, both current expenses and future healthcare needs
• Lost income, including tips, bonuses, and benefits
• Property damage repairs and replacements
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of earning capacity if your injuries result in long-term disability

These damages aim to compensate you for both the financial and personal impacts of the accident, helping you recover and move forward.

Florida’s Statute of Limitations for Hit and Run Accidents

The Florida statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a hit and run accident is generally two years from the date of the accident, as outlined in Florida Statutes § 95.11. This deadline applies to lawsuits seeking compensation for injuries or wrongful death resulting from the Miami car accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue legal action and recover damages.

It’s crucial to be aware of this time limit and to take prompt action to protect your rights. Gathering evidence, seeking medical treatment, and consulting with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible will help ensure that your case is filed within the statutory period.

Get the Legal Help You Need After a Miami Hit and Run Accident

Chalik & Chalik Injury Lawyers can assist you in navigating the complexities of a hit and run case. Debi and Jason Chalik will work diligently to pursue the fair compensation you and your family deserve. Our services come at no upfront cost, as we operate on a contingency fee basis—meaning you only pay if we win your case. 

Don’t let a hit and run accident derail your life. Call now for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing your future.