Do you know what to do after a hit and run?

You’re driving along in the right lane when another car tries to merge onto the interstate. You can’t move over since the left lane is full, and the driver sideswipes your car on the way in.

Then, as you watch in stunned disbelief, he or she drives away. It’s a situation no one wants to be in. Do you know what to do?

First off, if you can, try to move your car out of the traffic lanes by pulling to the side of the road. Obviously, if you’re injured and the damage to the car is serious, this may be impossible, but you should do it if you can.

Next, stay where you are and call the authorities. Don’t go after the driver. It’s dangerous and the police should handle it. Plus, if you’re injured, you need to get medical help as quickly as possible. That takes precedence over chasing down the other driver, no matter how angry and frustrated you feel.

With that done, try to get as much evidence as you can. Find witnesses, talk to them, and see if you can get their contact information. Take notes on your phone. Take pictures of the scene, the damage, and the highway. Try to get as much information as possible that will back up your story after the police apprehend the suspect.

A hit and run is a crime, but it might also mean that you can seek financial compensation. Your rights were violated when that driver injured you and broke traffic laws at the same time, and you may be able to get compensation for medical bills and other costs.