What to Do After a Hit-and-Run in Orland Park
You return to your car in Orland Park and immediately notice something’s wrong. A dented fender. Shattered glass. No note, no explanation, just clear evidence someone hit your vehicle and drove off.
Moments like these are disorienting. It’s difficult to know what to prioritize, who to call, or how this might affect you legally or financially. The decisions you make right after a hit-and-run can shape your ability to recover damages and move forward without unnecessary setbacks.
Attorney Michael J. Brennan has been representing victims of hit-and-run accidents across Orland Park and Cook County for decades. If you’re facing this situation, his guidance can help you take clear, effective steps from day one. Here’s what to do.
What to Do Right After the Accident
If you walk up to your car and realize it’s been hit, and the other driver’s long gone, it’s hard not to feel startled. But even if you’re shaken, what you do next can really matter.
First, just take a breath and look around. If your car’s in a bad spot, like blocking traffic or sitting too close to a turn, move it to a safer area if you can. Of course, if anyone’s hurt, don’t wait. Call 911 right away.
Then, make sure the police are on the way. Even if the damage looks minor, having an official police report can save you a headache later with insurance or in court. Ask how you can get a copy, or where to follow up. You can also request a police report online.
Take a bunch of photos. Don’t overthink it, just grab shots of the damage, the road, any debris or scratches that don’t belong to your car. Look around: Are there cameras nearby? Stores or homes with a clear view? Anything helps.
And if someone saw what happened? Get their name and number. Don’t pressure them, just ask politely if they’d be willing to share what they saw, if needed. Lastly, jot a few quick notes. Time, weather, whatever you remember
The Next Steps
Once the initial chaos passes, it’s time to get organized. These next few steps don’t take long, but they can make a big difference later. Especially if you end up needing to file a claim or take legal action.
Start with your health. Even if you feel okay, it’s smart to see a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or soft tissue damage, don’t show up right away. Having a medical record from early on helps connect any symptoms to the accident if things come up later.
Then, reach out to your insurance provider. Let them know what happened and share the info you’ve collected so far—photos, police report details, and any witness names. If the driver isn’t identified, your uninsured motorist coverage may help cover the costs, but don’t assume anything. Ask questions and take notes during the call.
Also, start a folder, physical or digital, and save everything. Repair bills, medical records, tow receipts, rental car expenses, even mileage if you’re driving extra because of the damage. These small details can add up quickly.
And if you hit a wall or something doesn’t feel right, maybe the insurance company’s dragging its feet or denying things you think should be covered, don’t wait too long to get help. Attorney Michael J. Brennan knows how to handle hit-and-run cases in Orland Park and beyond. A short conversation with someone who’s been through it all before can help you avoid bigger headaches down the line.
Protect Your Rights After a Hit-and-Run in Orland Park
Being the victim of a hit-and-run is stressful, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Taking the right steps early can protect your health, your finances, and your legal rights.
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run in Orland Park, contact Attorney Michael J. Brennan for a free consultation. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of Illinois personal injury law, he’s ready to help you move forward with confidence.