Question from a reader:
I was involved in a hit-and-run. My car is an older model from 2018, and I didn’t have a dashcam installed. There are no cameras in the parking lot, and since I live in public housing, I have no evidence at all. Even if I report it to the police, they won’t be able to do anything,
right? I’m really anxious about what to do.

What to Do If You Are Involved in a Hit-and-Run? Legal Advice

Introduction

Recently, I heard a story from a friend who was involved in a hit-and-run. He loves his 2018 car, and while parked, it was hit by an unknown vehicle. Unfortunately, he didn’t have a dashcam, and there were no surveillance cameras in the parking lot. He is worried that since there is no evidence, the police won’t be able to do anything even if he reports it. What should one do in such a situation? Let’s consider it from a legal perspective.

Definition of Hit-and-Run and Legal Aspects

First, let me explain a bit about hit-and-runs. Generally, a “hit-and-run” refers to the act of fleeing the scene after causing a traffic accident. In Japan, this is clearly illegal. Drivers involved in an accident have an obligation to contact the other party. But what should you do if, like you, there is no evidence? First, it is important to remain calm. It’s understandable to feel emotional about the accident, but try not to let your feelings overwhelm you and think about what to do next.

Reporting to the Police

Reporting to the police was the right decision. Even without evidence, it is important to have a record of the accident. The police will conduct an investigation to understand the circumstances of the accident. Additionally, filing a damage report can be helpful for future procedures. If there were other witnesses, you might be able to obtain their testimonies. Try asking people around you. Surprisingly, someone might say, “Oh, I saw it.”

Contacting Your Insurance Company

Next, let’s contact your insurance company. If you have vehicle insurance, there is a possibility that you can get compensation for the hit-and-run damage. However, be aware that without evidence, your insurance may not cover it. My friend actually contacted his insurance company and received some advice by explaining the details of the accident. For example, he was advised to take detailed notes on the date and time of the accident, the location, and the characteristics of the other vehicle. This information is important for the insurance company.

Documenting the Damage

After the accident, it is very important to document the damage. I recommend taking photos with your smartphone or jotting down notes. Taking pictures of the scratches and dents on your car can be helpful for future negotiations. Also, don’t forget to get repair estimates. For instance, I myself was involved in a minor accident in the past. At that time, I immediately took pictures of the car’s damage and requested an estimate from a repair shop. Thanks to that, negotiations with the insurance company went smoothly. I realized that actions taken after the accident can significantly impact the outcome.

The Importance of a Dashcam

Now, the fact that there was no dashcam installed was a contributing factor in this accident. To reduce future risks, please consider purchasing a dashcam. Many recent models are affordable and can record high-quality footage. I installed a dashcam on the recommendation of a friend. I used to think, “I don’t need that,” but now I realize its importance. Being able to record the moment of an accident is extremely helpful in avoiding future troubles.

Considering Legal Action

If the other party cannot be found, considering legal action is also an option. Consulting with a lawyer can provide you with professional advice. Of course, since there are costs involved, careful consideration is necessary, but in some cases, filing a lawsuit may allow you to receive compensation for damages. I know someone who consulted a lawyer after being involved in a hit-and-run. As a result, they found the other party and were able to receive compensation. However, since legal fees and time can be significant, it is important to make the best choice for yourself.

Conclusion

If you are involved in a hit-and-run, it is essential to act calmly first. Reporting to the police, contacting your insurance company, and documenting the damage are basic steps to take. Additionally, considering the installation of a dashcam for the future is also important. If the other party cannot be found, keeping legal action in mind may help you find a final resolution. After an accident, worries and anxieties may not cease, but by taking steady steps one at a time, you will surely find a way to resolve the situation. I hope you can enjoy your future driving life with peace of mind.