If you get into an accident and the other driver flees, there is a good chance that they will never be caught. Even if it is just minor damage from their negligent actions towards your car, this could become major headache for everyone involved when dealing with insurance companies or legal matters later down road.
A hit n run occurs because someone feels like they cannot tolerate responsibility. What starts out as probably an accident and therefore a civil matter in an instant escalates to a crime because the driver at fault elected to leave the scene without exchanging information with the victim(s) in the other vehicle.
Drivers flee accident scenes for many reasons. Could be they did not have insurance, or a drivers license. It could also be more serious criminal reasons behind their decision to leave the scene. Theres a very good chance law enforcement will respond and not anyone involved in criminal activity would want to wait around for the police to arrive. The hope is however, you as well as your passengers were not injured in the accident and the only worry would be the condition of your vehicle.
If you suspect anyone is injured, do not hesitate to call for an ambulance and police response if you are able. After assessing the condition of yourself and your passengers, if no one is seriously injured you should look around to see if there were any witnesses. If so, ask if they would remain to speak with the police when they arrive to give a statement. If for whatever reason any witness cannot remain to speak with law enforcement, try to get their contact information so police officers can follow up with them later. Your insurance company would most likely also want to follow up as well.
Take photos of the damage to your vehicle with your cell phone if possible. Take photos from multiple angles showing the damage. Take photos of the area and the street. Take photos of the street signs, traffic signals, traffic signs that are related to the scene of your accident. Write down notes of what happened while everything is fresh in your head and convey that information to law enforcement when they arrive and interview you. You will want to have your drivers license and insurance ready to show to law enforcement when they arrive.
If your vehicle is not in a dangerous position, let it remain where it is until police arrive and tell you its okay to move it. You want the responding officer to see your vehicle and its position so they can note it in their report. Be sure and get the report number from law enforcement and the officers contact information before leaving the scene.
After speaking with the officer and giving them your account of what happened, you can then contact your insurance company. Your insurance company will want to know the report number law enforcement gave to you so they can order a copy of the report for their review. This is important so do not forget to get this information from law enforcement before they leave.
If your vehicle needs help, depending on the condition, you may need to call a mobile mechanic. Mobile mechanics can respond to your location and make the necessary repairs to get you back on the road. They can save you out of pocket expenses because they are less expensive that going to an actual garage or auto shop. Mobile mechanics do not have the overhead shop owners have and the savings are passed on to their customers. One such company, Mobile Mechanic Pros Reno, in Reno, NV are open 7 days a week and have been providing mobile car repair services for a long time. The have a reputation for great customer service and vehicle care. If in the Reno, NV area, they would be a great option.
You now should have a good idea what to expect if ever involved in a hit and run accident and how a mobile mechanic could be of assistance. Use this information so if this ever occurs, you will know what to do and will be prepared.