Car Struck But No Note?

Few things are more frustrating than walking out of your home or a Florida business to find your car damaged. While this is an unpleasant development even when the person who is responsible for the damage leaves a note, frustrations can escalate when there is no note left behind. You may have difficulty knowing what to do next.

A hit-and-run incident can leave you feeling helpless, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and potentially recover damages. Contact a Boca Raton personal injury lawyer to explore your options and protect your rights.

The Importance of Leaving a Note

If you ever accidentally hit a parked car, Florida law requires you to leave your information, including your name, address, and contact details, in a note placed securely on the damaged vehicle. Failing to do so can result in fines, legal trouble, and higher insurance premiums. Unfortunately, not all drivers follow these rules. Some flee the scene to avoid responsibility, leaving victims to deal with the aftermath.

Should you discover your car was struck, follow these steps to document the incident and improve your chances of resolving the situation in a satisfactory way.

• Take photos. Capture clear pictures of the damage, the surrounding area, and any debris left behind. If another vehicle caused the damage, evidence like paint transfer or skid marks can be helpful.
• Look for witnesses. Ask anyone nearby if they saw what happened. Witness statements or surveillance footage from nearby cameras can help identify the responsible party.
• File a report. Even if no note was left, report the incident to local authorities. A police report serves as official documentation, which could be useful when filing an insurance claim.
• Contact your insurance company. Notify your insurer about the incident. Depending on your coverage, you may be able to file a claim under your collision or uninsured motorist policy.

It’s considered a hit-and-run if the at-fault driver has not left a note. While this can complicate the situation, it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. For example, nearby security or doorbell cameras may have captured the incident. An attorney can assist with securing requests to access this footage in order to hold the responsible party accountable. And if you have uninsured motorist coverage, you may be able to rely on your own policy to cover damages caused by an unidentified or uninsured driver.

Don’t Face Your Recovery Process Alone

Dealing with a hit-and-run is challenging but you don’t have to learn the ins and outs of the process, there are professionals to guide you. By taking immediate steps to document the damage and seeking support from a Boca Raton personal injury lawyer, you can work toward recovering the compensation you deserve.

Are you unsure what to do after someone hit your car in Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, or Pompano Beach? The injury lawyers at Leifer & Ramirez have the skills to identify the at-fault driver and access relief from your own coverage, when possible. Call 561-660-9421 today to schedule a confidential consultation.