How Long Does a Hit and Run Investigation Take in Georgia?

You want swift justice when another driver hits your car and flees the scene. Unfortunately, hit-and-run investigations can take weeks or longer, particularly if there’s little evidence police can use. So, if you’re wondering how long a hit-and-run investigation takes in Georgia, the answer is, “It depends.”

You don’t have to wait for the police to conclude their investigation to seek compensation for your injuries, though. The Atlanta hit-and-run accident attorneys at Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C. can outline your options and guide you through the legal process. You can find an essential guide to Georgia hit-and-run accidents below.

Steps of a Georgia Hit-and-Run Investigation

The process of a Georgia hit-and-run investigation typically goes like this:

• Police Report: The accident investigation begins when you notify the police about the crash. They will collect initial details, such as witness statements, and begin documenting the incident. This official report is crucial to launching an investigation, and you’ll need the police report to file an insurance claim.
• Gathering Evidence: The police will start gathering available evidence, including any photos, surveillance footage, or debris left behind at the scene. They may also check for traffic cameras, security footage from nearby businesses, or doorbell cameras to identify the vehicle or driver.
• Witness Interviews: Officers will speak with any witnesses who saw the accident. Witness statements are important for describing the vehicle, driver, or any other details that could help identify who was responsible for the hit-and-run.
• Search for the Driver: Once they have enough information, the police will search for the hit-and-run driver. This step may include checking databases, reviewing surveillance footage, and interviewing potential suspects.
• Vehicle Identification: If the police can identify the vehicle involved, they will trace the owner through license plate information or other clues. They’ll investigate whether the owner or someone else was driving at the time of the accident.
• Filing Charges: If the police find the driver, the driver could face criminal charges for leaving the scene. Any criminal charges filed could also help support your personal injury claim.

What Happens If the Police Can’t Find a Hit-and-Run Driver?

If the police can’t find the hit-and-run driver, you still have options for recovering compensation. Purchasing uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can help pay for your medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other losses from the accident. UM coverage is designed to protect you in these situations, as a hit-and-run is similar to a collision with an uninsured driver. Your attorney can help you file a claim through your own insurance.

Georgia law does not require drivers to have uninsured motorist coverage through their auto insurance. If you do not have this coverage and the police can’t find the hit-and-run driver, talk to an attorney. They can help you explore other options to cover your losses from the crash.

What You Can Do to Speed Up a Hit-and-Run Investigation

While you can’t control every aspect of a hit-and-run investigation, there are steps you can take to help move the process along. Here are a few things you can do:

• Report the Accident Immediately: Contact the police right after the accident and provide as many details as possible. The faster you report the hit-and-run, the quicker the investigation can begin. Timely reporting also helps preserve crucial evidence, such as debris left at the scene.
• Gather Evidence: Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and debris left behind by the other car. If you notice surveillance cameras nearby, let the police know so they can request the footage. The more evidence you can provide, the easier it is to track down the driver.
• Talk to Witnesses: Get contact information from anyone who saw the accident. Witnesses can provide important details, like the other driver’s appearance, the make and model of the vehicle, or even part of the license plate number. Share this information with the police to assist their investigation.
• Follow Up with the Police: Regularly contact the investigating officer. Following up can keep your case in the investigators’ minds and help ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
• Contact an Attorney: Your attorney can help gather additional evidence, communicate with the police, and help keep the investigation on track. They can also help you explore other options for compensation if the police can’t find the driver.

Contact an Atlanta Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Now

Let our Georgia car accident attorneys handle the hit-and-run investigation while you focus on your recovery. Call Jonathan R. Brockman, P.C. now at (770) 205-8827 or complete our contact form for a free case evaluation. Our lawyers have the legal capacity and proven record of success to help you with your case.

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