Hit and run case — what to do right after it happens

Were you hit or did you witness a hit-and-run? Your first minutes count. Stay calm, move to a safe spot if you can, and get medical help first. Do not chase the vehicle if that puts you or others at risk.

Call emergency services immediately — 112 in most places. If someone is injured, ask bystanders to help and call an ambulance. If you can safely take photos or video of the scene, the vehicle, skid marks, and any injuries, do it. These images become key evidence later.

Gather and preserve evidence

Note the time, exact location, and direction the vehicle fled. Try to record the vehicle’s make, model, color, and part of the plate number — even a few characters help. Look for CCTV cameras on nearby shops or traffic poles and ask passersby for witness names and phone numbers. If you have a phone or dashcam recording, back it up right away to the cloud or another device.

Do not destroy or alter anything at the scene. Preserve clothing, broken parts, or personal items for forensic checks. When you get medical attention, tell the hospital staff this is a medico-legal case (MLC) so they document injuries properly.

Report to police and get official records

Go to the nearest police station and insist on filing a First Information Report (FIR). If officers try to avoid registering it, ask to speak to a senior officer or file a written complaint. Keep a copy of the FIR or at least a receipt that shows you lodged a complaint. The FIR, MLC, and hospital bills are essential for legal and insurance steps.

Ask the police to check nearby CCTV and traffic cameras and to issue a broadcast (beating) to nearby stations. If you know the driver or have vehicle evidence, share it immediately. Stay in touch with the investigating officer for updates.

Notify your motor insurance company as soon as possible. For damages or injuries, insurers usually require the FIR, MLC, medical bills, and proof of ownership. If the offending vehicle isn’t found, you can still claim through legal routes or under certain insurer provisions — your insurer or lawyer can explain options.

Talk to a lawyer early, especially for serious injury or death. A lawyer helps with claims at the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal and can guide you on compensation, witness statements, and legal notices. If you can’t afford one, check for state legal aid or local NGOs that assist accident victims.

Finally, small prevention steps reduce risk: use dashcams, share your route with family, and press for better street lighting and camera coverage in your area. A few quick actions after a hit-and-run make a big difference in investigations and any compensation you may get.