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A hit and run accident in Georgia can leave you feeling shocked and uncertain about your next steps. Whether your vehicle was struck by a fleeing driver, or you returned to find your Georgia hit and run parked car damaged, knowing what to do in a hit and run is essential.

Taking immediate action can protect your rights, help authorities locate the at-fault driver, and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s everything you need to know, including how a Seay Felton car accident lawyer can help you navigate this complex legal situation.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit and Run in Georgia

If you’ve been involved in a hit and run in Georgia, follow these crucial steps to protect yourself legally and financially:

1. Ensure Your Safety & Call 911

• Move to a safe location and check for injuries.
• Call 911 and report the accident.
• Provide as many details as possible about the fleeing vehicle, including color, make, model, and any visible license plate numbers.
• Stay at the scene until police arrive and file a police report—this is critical for insurance claims.

2. Gather Evidence at the Scene

Even though the driver fled, collecting evidence can help in tracking them down and proving your case.

Take photos and videos of:

• Damage to your vehicle
• Any skid marks or debris left behind
• The surrounding area, including traffic lights, stop signs, or surveillance cameras

Speak to witnesses and get their contact information—someone may have noticed key details about the fleeing driver.

Look for security cameras on nearby businesses or homes that may have captured the accident.

3. Notify Your Insurance Company

• Contact your insurance provider to report the hit-and-run.
• Ask, “Does insurance cover a hit and run?” to understand your policy’s coverage.
• Provide the police report number and all evidence you collected.
• Do not admit fault or make assumptions—stick to the facts.

4. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. Keep medical records and bills as evidence for your insurance claim.

5. Contact a Georgia Accident Lawyer

A Georgia accident lawyer can help you:

• Handle insurance claims to maximize your compensation.
• Investigate and identify the hit-and-run driver.
• File a personal injury lawsuit if needed.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, consulting with an Atlanta car accident lawyer from Seay Felton LLC Trial Lawyers can make all the difference.

What is Considered a Hit and Run in Georgia?

A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in an accident fails to stop and provide information or aid to those affected. This can happen in different ways:

• Hit-and-run collisions: A driver flees after crashing into another vehicle.
• Pedestrian or cyclist accidents: A driver leaves the scene after hitting someone on foot or a bike.
• Georgia hit and run parked car: A driver damages a parked vehicle and leaves without leaving contact information.

Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal in Georgia and comes with serious penalties.

Georgia Hit and Run Laws: What You Need to Know

Legal Consequences for Hit and Run Offenders

Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270, Georgia law requires drivers involved in an accident to:

• Stop at the scene.
• Provide their name, contact information, and insurance details.
• Render aid to injured parties.

Penalties for fleeing the scene include:

• Misdemeanor charge for minor accidents—up to $1,000 in fines and a suspended license.
• Felony charge if the accident causes serious injury or death—up to 5 years in prison.

If you were a victim of a hit and run, a Seay Felton car accident lawyer can help hold the at-fault driver accountable.

What to Do if Your Parked Car Was Hit in Georgia?

If you return to your Georgia hit and run parked car, follow these steps:

• Look for a note—Georgia law requires drivers to leave their contact information if they hit a parked car.
• Document the damage with photos.
• Check for security cameras that may have captured the accident.
• File a police report and notify your insurance company.

Does Insurance Cover a Hit and Run in Georgia?

Your ability to recover damages after a hit-and-run depends on your insurance policy.

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

Covers injuries and property damage when the at-fault driver is unknown. Not required in Georgia but highly recommended.

Collision Coverage

Pays for vehicle repairs, but you must pay the deductible. Unlike UM coverage, it does not compensate for medical bills or lost wages.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) & Medical Payments (MedPay)

Covers medical expenses regardless of fault. Does not cover property damage.

Liability Insurance

If the hit-and-run driver is found, their insurance should cover damages. Georgia requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage:

• $25,000 per person for bodily injury
• $50,000 per accident for bodily injury
• $25,000 per accident for property damage

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Hit and Run in Georgia?

If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical Bills (hospital stays, rehabilitation, ongoing care)
• Lost Wages (missed work and reduced earning capacity)
• Pain & Suffering (emotional distress, trauma from the accident)
• Property Damage (vehicle repair or replacement)

A Seay Felton car accident lawyer can evaluate your claim and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Preventing Hit and Run Accidents in Georgia

While you can’t control other drivers, you can take steps to reduce the risk of a hit-and-run:

• Install a Dashcam: Provides video evidence if an accident occurs.
• Park in Well-Lit Areas: Reduces the chance of Georgia hit and run parked car incidents.
• Be Alert at Intersections: Many hit-and-runs occur at red lights or stop signs.
• Always Wear a Seatbelt: Helps prevent serious injuries in any accident.

Contact Seay Felton Car Accident Lawyers for Legal Help

A hit-and-run accident can leave you facing injuries, vehicle damage, and uncertainty about what comes next. Seay Felton car accident lawyers are here to help you get justice and compensation.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Georgia, contact us today for a free consultation!