What to Do After a Hit and Run: 10 Critical Steps

A damaged car, potential medical bills, and no one to hold responsible. The financial stress of a hit-and-run can feel just as jarring as the crash itself. It’s easy to feel powerless when the at-fault driver is gone, but you are not out of options. Your path to financial recovery starts with knowing exactly what to do after a hit and run. This guide focuses on the practical steps for handling the insurance process and protecting your finances. We’ll explain how your own policy can help and what you need to do to file a successful claim.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritize Safety and Document Everything: After moving to a safe location, your first call should be to 911 to create an official police report. Then, gather crucial evidence by taking photos of the scene and your car, and collecting contact information from any witnesses.
• Get Medical Care and Report the Incident: See a doctor right away to check for hidden injuries like whiplash and to create a medical record for your claim. You must also notify your own insurance company promptly to begin the claims process and protect your coverage.
• Understand Your Path to Compensation: Even if the other driver is never found, you can likely get compensation through your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. Consulting an attorney early helps you manage the complex insurance process and fight for the full amount you deserve.

What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run

The moments after a hit-and-run are jarring and confusing. Your priority is to stay safe and take clear, deliberate steps to protect yourself and your potential legal claim. It’s completely normal to feel angry and overwhelmed, but what you do next can significantly impact your health and your ability to recover damages. Focus on these immediate actions to secure the scene and start building your case.

Move to a Safe Location

Your safety comes first. Before you do anything else, check if you can move your car out of the flow of traffic, like to the shoulder of the road. If your car is too damaged to move, turn on your hazard lights. Then, get yourself and any passengers to a safe spot away from the road, such as a sidewalk or well-lit area. Don't stand between cars or in the roadway where you could be in danger from other vehicles. This simple step prevents a bad situation from getting worse and allows you to think more clearly about what to do next.

Check for Injuries

Once you are in a safe place, do a quick check on yourself and anyone else who was in the car with you. Adrenaline from the crash can easily hide pain, so be thorough. You might feel fine at first, but injuries like whiplash or internal bruising can show up hours or even days later. If anyone feels any pain, dizziness, or discomfort, it’s best to seek medical attention right away. Don’t dismiss any symptoms, no matter how minor they seem. Your health is the most important thing, and documenting injuries early is vital for your well-being and your claim.

Call 911

No matter how minor the damage appears, you should always call 911 to report a hit-and-run. Tell the dispatcher what happened and that the other driver fled the scene. An officer will come to the location to create an official accident report. This report is a critical piece of evidence for your insurance claim and any legal action you might take. Having a formal police report documents the incident and is often the first step in a successful car accident claim. Wait for the police to arrive and give them a clear, factual account of what happened.

Critical Mistakes to Avoid at the Scene

In a stressful situation like a hit-and-run, it’s easy to act on impulse. However, some actions can put you in danger or hurt your case. First, never chase the fleeing driver. It’s dangerous and can lead to another accident or a violent confrontation. Second, try to remain as calm as possible. When you speak to the police or witnesses, stick to the facts. Finally, avoid admitting any fault or saying anything that could be interpreted as an apology. You do not have to determine who caused the crash; that can be sorted out later. Your focus should be on safety and gathering information.

How to Gather Evidence at the Scene

The moments after a hit-and-run are chaotic and stressful, but what you do next can significantly impact your ability to get the compensation you deserve. While your first priority is safety, gathering evidence at the scene is a close second. The information you collect can help police locate the driver who fled and strengthen your insurance claim. Think of yourself as a detective for your own case. The details you notice, the people you talk to, and the photos you take all become crucial pieces of the puzzle. Taking these steps can feel overwhelming, but they create a foundation for your case and give your attorney the tools they need to fight for you.

Note the Other Vehicle's Details

It all happens so fast, but try to recall as much as you can about the other vehicle. Even small details can be incredibly helpful. Jot down or make a voice memo of everything you remember, including the car’s color, make, and model. Did you catch any part of the license plate number? Even a few letters or numbers can help the police narrow their search. Also, think about any unique features like a roof rack, bumper stickers, or pre-existing damage. This information is the first thing the police will ask for when you file a report, and it's essential for your car accident claim.

Find and Speak with Witnesses

You might feel alone after the other driver speeds away, but there’s a good chance someone else saw what happened. Look around for pedestrians, other drivers who stopped, or people in nearby shops or homes. Ask them if they witnessed the accident and would be willing to share what they saw. If they agree, get their name and phone number. An independent witness account can be powerful, confirming the events and sometimes providing details you missed, like a clear description of the car or the license plate number. Their statement can make a huge difference in proving your side of the story.

Take Photos and Videos

Your phone is one of the most powerful tools you have at the accident scene. Use it to take plenty of photos and videos from different angles. Document the damage to your vehicle, making sure to get both close-up shots and wider views that show the car in context. Capture the surrounding area, including any skid marks on the road, debris from the crash, and relevant traffic signs or signals. If you have any visible injuries, photograph those as well. This visual evidence creates a clear, time-stamped record of the incident that is difficult for insurance companies to dispute.

Look for Surveillance Cameras

Video footage can be the single most important piece of evidence in a hit-and-run case. As you wait for the police, scan the area for any potential surveillance cameras. Businesses like gas stations, convenience stores, and banks often have cameras pointed at the road. Also, check for traffic cameras at intersections or even residential doorbell cameras on nearby homes. You don't need to get the footage yourself. Just make a note of the camera's location and inform the responding officer. An experienced attorney can also formally request this footage, which could be the key to identifying the driver who left you behind.

Reporting the Hit-and-Run to the Police

After a hit-and-run, your head is likely spinning. But one of the most important things you can do is create an official record of what happened. Contacting the police is a non-negotiable step that protects your rights and is essential for your insurance claim and any future legal action. A police report serves as the official foundation for your case, documenting the facts from the moment the incident occurred. Without it, the other driver’s insurance company could argue the accident never happened or dispute the details.

This report is a powerful tool. It helps insurance companies verify the event and can be crucial evidence if the other driver is found. In Virginia, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense, and a police report initiates the investigation to hold the responsible driver accountable. Taking this step ensures that you have the necessary documentation to handle any car accident claims and strengthens your position from the very beginning. Think of it as the first formal step toward getting the justice and compensation you deserve for your vehicle damage, medical bills, and other losses.

File a Police Report

Your first call after ensuring everyone is safe should be to 911 to report the accident. An officer will come to the scene to take your statement and create an official report. It’s best to do this immediately while the details are still fresh in your mind. Waiting can make it harder to recall key information and may even impact your insurance coverage, as some policies require you to file a report within a specific timeframe. This official document is your proof that the hit-and-run happened, and it’s a critical piece of evidence for your insurance provider and your attorney.

What to Include in Your Statement

When you speak with the police, be as clear and detailed as possible. The more information you can provide, the better the chances are of identifying the driver who fled. Try to give the officer the following details:

• The exact location, date, and time of the accident.
• A description of the other vehicle, including its color, make, model, and any part of the license plate number you remember.
• A description of the driver if you got a look at them.
• The direction the other vehicle was heading when it left the scene.
• Information about any injuries you or your passengers sustained.
• Contact information for any witnesses who saw what happened.

Get a Copy of the Police Report

Once the police report is filed, make sure you get a copy for your records. This document is vital for your insurance claim and is a cornerstone of any personal injury case. The report contains the officer’s observations, your statement, witness information, and other objective facts about the incident. Having your own copy ensures you can provide it to your insurance adjuster and your attorney without delay. Since leaving the scene of an accident can lead to serious charges, this report is also the first step in the criminal defense process for the at-fault driver if they are identified.

Why You Need to See a Doctor

After a hit-and-run, your mind is racing. You might be focused on the damage to your car or the fact that the other driver fled. It’s easy to push your own physical well-being to the side, especially if you don't feel immediate pain. However, seeking medical attention is one of the most important steps you can take. This isn't just about your health; it's about protecting your rights and your ability to recover financially from the accident.

Some injuries don't show symptoms for hours or even days. What feels like minor soreness could be a sign of something more serious, like a concussion or internal bruising. Getting a professional medical opinion creates an official record of your condition right after the crash. This record becomes crucial evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. At Letsen Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how a delay in seeking medical care can complicate car accident cases. Our founding attorney, Michael J. Letsen, brings a unique perspective from his time as a prosecutor, understanding how every piece of evidence, including medical reports, builds a strong case. Your health is the priority, and a prompt medical evaluation is the first step in taking care of yourself and securing your future.

The Importance of a Medical Exam (Even If You Feel Okay)

The shock and adrenaline from a car crash can easily mask pain. You might walk away from the scene feeling shaken but otherwise fine, only to wake up the next day with severe neck pain, a throbbing headache, or dizziness. These delayed symptoms can point to common car accident injuries like whiplash, concussions, or even internal damage. Waiting to see a doctor gives an insurance company an opportunity to argue that your injuries weren't caused by the accident. A prompt medical exam establishes a clear baseline and ensures any hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated before they become worse. Think of it as a critical step for both your physical recovery and your financial protection.

Document Your Injuries and Medical Care

From your very first doctor's visit, you need to start a file. This file is your proof. It should contain every document related to your medical care: diagnoses, treatment plans, receipts for prescriptions, and all medical bills. These records create an undeniable link between the hit-and-run and the harm you suffered. This documentation is the foundation for recovering compensation for your medical expenses, lost income from time off work, and the pain and suffering the accident has caused. Having an experienced attorney who understands how to present this evidence can make all the difference. With a background as both a prosecutor and a compassionate counselor, Michael J. Letsen knows how to build a compelling claim based on solid medical proof.

Understanding Virginia's Hit-and-Run Laws

When you're the victim of a hit-and-run, it’s easy to feel powerless and overwhelmed. But it’s important to know that Virginia law is on your side. The state takes these incidents very seriously, and understanding the legal framework is the first step toward protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve. The consequences for the fleeing driver are significant, and as the victim, you have specific rights that a skilled attorney can help you enforce. Knowing what the law says can give you a sense of control and a clear path forward during a confusing and stressful time.

What Penalties Does the Other Driver Face?

In Virginia, a driver who flees the scene of an accident faces serious criminal charges. The penalties depend entirely on the severity of the crash. If the accident results in injury or death, or causes at least $1,000 in damage to a vehicle or property that someone is in, the driver has committed a Class 5 felony. This is a severe offense that can lead to significant prison time and hefty fines. If the property damage is less than $1,000, the offense is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, which still carries the potential for jail time and fines. These strict Virginia laws are designed to hold drivers accountable for their actions.

Know Your Rights as a Victim

As the victim of a hit-and-run, your most immediate concern is your well-being and financial recovery. You have the right to seek compensation for all the damages you’ve suffered. This includes payment for your medical bills, any income you lose from being unable to work, and the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. You can also pursue compensation for your physical pain and emotional suffering. An experienced attorney can help you document these losses and build a strong case to recover what you are owed after a car accident. Even if the at-fault driver is never identified, you may still have options for recovery through your own insurance policy.

Dealing with Your Insurance Company

After a hit-and-run, your own insurance company becomes your primary source for compensation. While it’s comforting to think your insurer is completely on your side, it’s important to remember that they are still a business. Their goal is to resolve claims as quickly and inexpensively as possible. How you communicate with them, starting with the very first phone call, can have a major impact on the financial support you receive for your vehicle repairs, medical bills, and other losses.

Navigating this process can be tricky, especially when you’re already stressed and recovering from the accident. You have to be careful about what you say and agree to. An insurance adjuster may seem friendly, but their job is to protect the company’s bottom line. This is why many people choose to have a car accident attorney handle these conversations for them. An experienced lawyer knows how to provide the necessary information without saying anything that could weaken your claim.

Notify Your Insurer Immediately

Once you are safe and have filed a police report, you should contact your insurance agent as soon as you can. Most insurance policies include a clause that requires you to report an accident promptly. If you wait too long, the insurance company could argue that the delay hurt their ability to investigate the claim, potentially giving them a reason to deny it.

Tell your agent the basic facts: that you were in a hit-and-run, the date, the time, and the location. Let them know that you have filed a police report and provide the report number if you have it. This initial call starts the claims process and shows you are acting in good faith.

What Information to Provide

When you speak with your insurance company, stick to the facts. Provide the information you gathered at the scene and what’s in the police report, but don’t offer any extra details or opinions. It’s crucial that you do not guess about how the accident happened, admit any fault, or downplay your injuries by saying "I'm fine."

Your best approach is to be clear and truthful about what you know for sure, and that's it. If an adjuster presses you for more information or asks for a recorded statement, you have the right to decline until you've spoken with an attorney. With his unique background as a former prosecutor, Michael Letsen understands exactly how to frame information to protect his clients' rights during official statements and negotiations.

What Is Uninsured Motorist Coverage?

In a hit-and-run, the at-fault driver is unknown. For insurance purposes, this person is treated as an uninsured motorist. This is where your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage comes into play. This is a part of your own auto policy designed specifically for situations like this.

UM coverage can help pay for your medical expenses, lost wages if you can't work, and other damages resulting from the accident. It may also cover the damage to your car if you have Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) coverage. Understanding this part of your policy is key, as it is the primary way you will recover your losses when the other driver can't be found.

Avoid These Mistakes When Talking to Your Insurer

Insurance adjusters are trained negotiators. It’s easy to make a mistake that could cost you thousands. One of the most common errors is accepting the first settlement offer. This initial offer is often far less than what your claim is actually worth, and it’s made in the hope that you’ll take the quick cash and close the case.

Another major mistake is giving a recorded statement without legal guidance. The adjuster may ask questions designed to get you to say something that minimizes the severity of the accident or your injuries. Never sign any documents or agree to a settlement without having them reviewed by a lawyer. An attorney can help you accurately calculate your damages and fight for the full compensation you deserve after a hit-and-run accident.

What If the Driver Is Never Found?

It’s a deeply frustrating scenario: you’ve been hit, and the other driver is gone. You might feel like your options have disappeared along with their car. But even if the police can’t locate the person responsible, you still have paths to recovery. Your own insurance policy can be a critical resource, and if the driver is eventually found, you have clear legal rights. Understanding these options is the first step toward getting the compensation you need to move forward. It’s important to act quickly, as strict deadlines apply.

Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim

Even if the at-fault driver is never found, you can often get compensation through your own insurance policy. This is where Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage comes into play. In a hit-and-run, your insurance company essentially treats the missing driver as an uninsured one. Your UM coverage can help pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other injury-related costs. It’s a vital part of your policy that protects you in exactly this type of situation. Filing a claim can be complicated, so it’s wise to understand exactly what your policy covers after any car accidents. An attorney can help you document your losses and handle all communications with your insurer to ensure you are treated fairly.

What Happens If the Driver Is Identified?

If the police investigation successfully identifies the driver, your options expand significantly. You can then file a personal injury claim directly against the at-fault driver and their insurance company to cover your damages. At the same time, the driver will likely face serious criminal charges for leaving the scene of an accident. It’s important to remember that the criminal case and your civil claim are two separate processes. The state prosecutes the crime, while you pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. Having an attorney with experience in criminal defense can provide unique insight into how the driver's charges might affect your personal injury case.

Know Virginia's Statute of Limitations

In Virginia, you have a limited window of time to file a lawsuit for personal injury. This deadline is called the statute of limitations, and for most car accident cases, it is two years from the date of the incident. If you fail to file your lawsuit within this period, you will likely lose your right to seek compensation in court forever. This is why it’s so critical to act quickly after a hit-and-run. The clock starts ticking the moment the accident happens. An experienced attorney can help ensure all necessary paperwork is filed correctly and on time, protecting your right to pursue justice. Learning about your legal team's background can give you confidence that your case is in capable hands.

Finding Support After a Hit-and-Run

The moments after a hit-and-run are chaotic, but you don’t have to go through the aftermath alone. Recovering from this type of accident involves more than just dealing with insurance claims; it’s about healing physically, emotionally, and financially. Building a strong support system is one of the most important steps you can take. This includes securing financial assistance to cover your expenses, finding emotional support to process the trauma, and getting legal guidance to protect your rights. Taking these steps can help you regain a sense of control and focus on what matters most: your recovery.

Get Financial and State Assistance

As a victim of a hit-and-run, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries and property damage. These funds can cover mounting medical bills, lost wages from time off work, and the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle. Your first line of defense is typically your own auto insurance policy, specifically your uninsured motorist coverage. It’s designed for exactly this situation. Depending on the circumstances, you may also be eligible for assistance through state victim compensation programs. The key is to understand that you have options and shouldn't have to bear the financial burden of someone else's reckless actions alone.

Find Emotional and Psychological Support

A car accident is stressful enough, but a hit-and-run can feel like a personal violation that leaves you feeling anxious, angry, and vulnerable. It’s completely normal to struggle with the emotional fallout. Don't underestimate the impact this trauma can have on your mental health. Talking about your experience with trusted friends, family, or a professional therapist can make a significant difference in your recovery. Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness offer resources and support groups that can provide a safe space to process what happened. Prioritizing your mental well-being is just as important as healing your physical injuries.

How a Lawyer Can Help Immediately

Trying to handle the legal and insurance complexities while you’re recovering can be overwhelming. This is where an experienced attorney can step in to lift that weight off your shoulders. A lawyer acts as your advocate, helping you understand your rights and managing all communication with insurance companies. They will work to ensure you don't miss critical deadlines and can help you build a strong claim to fight for the compensation you need to recover fully. Having a legal professional on your side allows you to focus on your health while they handle the fight for justice on your behalf.

5 Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Hit-and-Run Claim

After a hit-and-run, your mind is racing, and it’s easy to make a mistake that could affect your ability to get fair compensation. The moments after the crash are chaotic, but knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing what to do. Avoiding these common errors can protect your physical well-being and strengthen your potential legal claim. Let’s walk through the five biggest mistakes people make and how you can steer clear of them.

Don't Chase the Other Driver

Your first instinct might be to go after the car that hit you. Please, resist this urge. Chasing another driver is incredibly dangerous and can easily lead to a second, more serious accident. You also risk being perceived as the aggressor, which can complicate things when the police arrive. Instead of pursuing them, stay put and focus on what you can control. Your priority is your safety and gathering details from a secure location. Following the other driver also means you miss the opportunity to speak with witnesses at the scene who saw what happened. Let the police handle the pursuit; your job is to stay safe and collect information where you are.

Don't Wait to Call the Police

Call 911 immediately after a hit-and-run, even if the accident seems minor. A police report is the most important piece of evidence you can have. It creates an official record of the incident, documents the details you remember, and confirms that the other driver fled the scene. In Virginia, failing to report an accident can have serious consequences, and some insurance policies require a police report to be filed within a specific timeframe for your coverage to apply. When you call, tell the dispatcher you were involved in a hit-and-run. An officer will come to the scene to take your statement, which is a critical first step in any car accident claim.

Don't Skip a Medical Evaluation

Even if you feel fine, get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. The adrenaline from an accident can easily mask pain and hide serious injuries like whiplash or internal bruising that may not show symptoms for hours or even days. Seeking prompt medical attention is essential for your health. It also creates a medical record that directly links your injuries to the accident. This documentation is vital if you need to file a personal injury claim to cover your medical bills and other damages. Without it, an insurance company could argue that your injuries weren't caused by the crash.

Don't Delay Your Insurance Claim

Contact your insurance company promptly to report the hit-and-run. Most insurers have strict deadlines for filing a claim, and waiting too long could put your coverage at risk. When you call, have the police report number and the officer's name handy. Give your agent a clear, factual account of what happened, but stick to the basics. Avoid speculating or admitting any fault. Reporting the incident quickly allows your insurer to begin their investigation and helps you start the process of using your uninsured motorist coverage if the other driver isn't found. This is especially important in complex cases involving commercial vehicles, which is why having a truck accident attorney can be so helpful.

Don't Accept the First Settlement Offer

If the at-fault driver is found, their insurance company may reach out with a quick settlement offer. It might be tempting to accept it and move on, but you should be cautious. The first offer is almost always the lowest amount the insurer is willing to pay. Adjusters are trained to settle claims for as little as possible, and their initial offer likely won't cover the full cost of your future medical care, lost wages, or pain and suffering. Never sign anything or accept a check without first speaking to an attorney. An experienced lawyer, like our founder Michael J. Letsen, can evaluate the true value of your claim and ensure you don't settle for less than you deserve. You can learn more about his unique background as a former prosecutor on his about page.

When to Hire a Personal Injury Attorney

After a hit-and-run, you might wonder if you really need a lawyer, especially if your injuries seem minor at first. The best time to contact an attorney is as soon as possible. The moments and days following an accident are critical for building a strong case, and having a legal professional on your side from the start can make a significant difference. As a victim, you have a right to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and the physical and emotional toll of the accident. An attorney helps ensure those rights are protected.

Dealing with insurance companies and legal procedures is complicated, and the stress can be overwhelming when you should be focused on healing. A personal injury attorney takes that burden off your shoulders. They can immediately begin investigating the accident, preserving evidence, and handling all communications with your insurance provider. Many people hesitate because they worry about the cost, but most personal injury lawyers, including our team at Letsen Law Firm, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. Getting expert advice early on costs you nothing and can prevent costly mistakes down the road.

How an Attorney Protects Your Rights

An attorney acts as your dedicated advocate, especially when dealing with insurance companies. Insurers are businesses, and their goal is often to pay out as little as possible. A lawyer understands their tactics and can manage all negotiations to fight for the full compensation you deserve. They will handle the paperwork, deadlines, and legal requirements involved in filing a personal injury claim, so you don’t have to face it alone.

Your attorney’s primary job is to build a case that proves the other driver’s fault and demonstrates the extent of your damages. This involves gathering police reports, interviewing witnesses, collecting medical records, and sometimes hiring experts to reconstruct the accident. Having a skilled lawyer on your side significantly increases your chances of securing a fair settlement that covers all your recovery needs, both now and in the future.

Choosing the Right Attorney in Virginia

When you’re looking for legal help, it’s important to choose an attorney with experience in Virginia’s specific hit-and-run laws. A local lawyer will be familiar with the courts in Abingdon, Tazewell, and the surrounding counties, which can be a real advantage. They understand the local legal landscape and have established relationships within the community. Experience is also key, especially in complex cases involving serious injuries or trucking accidents.

Ultimately, you want an attorney you can trust to guide you through this difficult time. Look for someone who listens to your story and clearly explains your options. An experienced attorney with a background as a former prosecutor brings a unique perspective to your case, understanding how the other side thinks and operates. This insight can be invaluable in building a strong strategy to protect your interests.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if the damage to my car seems really minor? Do I still need to call the police? Yes, you absolutely should. A police report is the official proof that a hit-and-run occurred, which is critical for any insurance claim. What looks like a small scratch could hide more serious frame damage that isn't immediately visible. Calling the police creates a legal record that protects you and is the first step in holding the other driver accountable if they are ever found.

I feel fine after the crash. Why is it so important to see a doctor right away? The adrenaline from an accident can easily hide serious injuries like whiplash or concussions, which might not show symptoms for hours or even days. Seeing a doctor creates a crucial medical record that links your injuries directly to the accident. This documentation is essential evidence for your insurance claim and is necessary to get compensation for your medical treatment. If you wait, an insurance company could argue your injuries are unrelated to the crash.

How can I get compensation if the other driver is never found? This is exactly why Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is so important. This part of your own auto insurance policy is designed to cover your losses when the at-fault driver cannot be identified. Your UM coverage can help pay for your medical bills, lost income, and other related costs. An attorney can help you file this claim correctly to ensure you get the support you are entitled to under your policy.

I'm worried my own insurance rates will go up if I file a hit-and-run claim. Will they? This is a common worry, but filing a claim under your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage for a hit-and-run is different from filing an at-fault accident claim. Since you were not responsible for the accident, your rates should not increase simply for using the coverage you've paid for. This protection exists specifically for situations like this, to shield you from the financial consequences of another driver's actions.

What's the single most important thing to remember if I'm ever in a hit-and-run? Your safety is always the top priority. Before you do anything else, move to a safe location away from traffic. After that, focus on gathering information without putting yourself in danger. This means taking photos, looking for witnesses, and trying to remember details about the other car, but never chasing the driver who fled.