Hit and Run in India: What to Do When Someone Flees

If you’re involved in a road accident and the driver speeds away, the situation feels chaotic. Your first instinct might be panic, but staying calm is the best move. Below are clear steps you can take right after a hit and run, so you protect yourself and help the police catch the culprit.

Stay on the Scene and Gather Evidence

Even if the other driver disappears, you must stay at the spot. Move to a safe place nearby, then start noting everything you can remember. Write down the vehicle’s color, make, model, and any visible number plates. If you can, snap photos of the car, the damage, and the surrounding area. A short video showing the scene can also be useful later.

Talk to any witnesses right away. Ask for their names, phone numbers, and what they saw. Their statements can fill gaps if you’re unsure about any detail. Don’t argue with anyone; just collect facts.

Contact the Police Immediately

Dial 100 or the local police helpline as soon as possible. Give the officer a concise summary: where the accident happened, what you saw, and any vehicle details. The police will file a FIR (First Information Report). Make sure you receive the FIR number – you’ll need it for insurance and any legal follow‑up.

If you’re injured, tell the police about your injuries and seek medical help right away. Even minor injuries should be checked by a doctor, because a medical report can strengthen any future claim.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your insurer within 24 hours. Share the FIR number, photos, and any witness information. Most policies cover hit and run cases, but they’ll need proof that you reported it promptly. Ask the insurer what documents they need for the claim – usually a police report, medical bills, and repair estimates.

While waiting for the insurance adjuster, you can get a rough repair quote from a trusted garage. Having that number handy speeds up the claim process.

Legal Steps and Your Rights

If the police catch the driver, you may be asked to give a statement in court. Your written notes and photos become vital evidence. Even if the culprit isn’t found right away, the FIR stays on record, and you can reopen the case if new info appears.

Remember, you’re not at fault for someone else’s reckless behavior. The law protects victims of hit and runs, and insurers are obligated to help you recover losses.

Dealing with a hit and run can feel overwhelming, but following these steps keeps you safe, ensures you get the help you need, and increases the chance the driver is caught. Stay calm, gather facts, call the police, and involve your insurer – that’s the roadmap to handling a hit and run in India.