Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a traumatic experience. When a driver flees the scene, it leaves victims feeling confused and helpless. The aftermath of such accidents often includes dealing with serious injuries, property damage, and mounting medical expenses.
Knowing your rights and the steps to protect yourself is necessary. Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents are common in Queens, and victims need strong legal representation. At Davidoff Law, we would be honored to fight for you.
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Our Queens Hit & Run Accident Lawyer Can Represent You After a Hit-and-Run Accident
After a hit-and-run accident, it's important to have an experienced lawyer on your side. A Queens car accident lawyer can walk you through the legal process, from submitting a claim to negotiating with the insurance company. They can help gather evidence, track down witnesses, and even work with law enforcement to identify the responsible driver.
Legal representation is crucial in hit-and-run cases because these accidents involve complex legal challenges. Without the help of a lawyer, you may struggle to recover the full compensation you deserve.
A Queens car accident lawyer knows the detailed laws and regulations in New York and can use that knowledge to your advantage. Let them handle the legal aspects so you can focus on your recovery.
Definition of a Hit & Run Accident
A hit-and-run crash occurs when a motorist in a car accident departs the scene without giving contact information or assisting the injured parties. This type of accident is illegal and can result in severe penalties for the hit-and-run driver.
In New York, drivers are legally required to stop after an accident, especially if injuries or big property damage occur.
Leaving the scene of an accident can complicate the process of filing a car accident claim. Pursuing compensation through their insurance company becomes challenging without the other driver's information. This is why taking immediate action and seeking legal assistance is essential if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident.
Dealing with Uninsured Motorist Claims
If the hit-and-run driver cannot be identified, you may need to submit an uninsured motorist claim with your own insurance company. Uninsured motorist coverage may help pay medical bills and property damage when the at-fault driver is unknown. Uninsured motorist coverage, known as MVIAC (Motor Vehicle Indemnification Corporation) in NYC, provides financial protection when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured. This coverage helps pay for medical expenses and property damage, ensuring that victims are not left bearing the cost of accidents caused by uninsured or hit-and-run drivers.
However, dealing with your own insurance company can be complex, and it's important to have legal representation to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Common Causes of Hit & Run Accidents
- Drunk driving. Drunk drivers often flee the scene to avoid legal consequences, such as DUI charges. Their impaired judgment leads them to make reckless decisions, including leaving the accident scene.
- Uninsured drivers. Drivers without insurance may panic after an accident and decide to leave. They fear the financial consequences of being caught without coverage, leading them to commit a hit-and-run.
- Distracted driving. Distracted drivers may not realize the severity of the accident and choose to leave the scene. They might be using their phones or not paying attention when the crash occurs.
- Fear of arrest. Some drivers flee because they have outstanding warrants or are driving on a suspended license. The fear of being arrested prompts them to avoid the authorities by leaving the scene.
- Inexperienced drivers. Inexperienced or young drivers may not know how to handle the situation and decide to flee out of fear or confusion. They may believe that escaping is the easiest way to avoid responsibility.
Legal Obligations After a Car Accident in New York
In New York, drivers involved in a car accident are legally required to stop and exchange information with the other parties involved. This includes providing your name, address, driver's license number, and insurance information. If the accident results in injury or big property damage, you must also report the incident to the police.
Not following these obligations can trigger hefty legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and criminal charges. Reporting the accident promptly helps protect your legal rights and can be crucial if you need to file a personal injury lawsuit.
If the other driver fails to stop, you should still report the accident to the police and seek legal advice immediately.
Steps to Take After a Hit & Run Accident
- Call 911 immediately. Report the accident to the police and request medical assistance if needed. Provide as much information as possible about the hit-and-run driver and their vehicle.
- Seek medical attention. If you feel alright, go to the doctor to rule out hidden injuries. Keep all medical records, as they will be needed for your case.
- Gather evidence at the scene. Snap some photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your vehicle. This evidence can be used to support your car accident injury claims.
- Get witness information. If there are witnesses, gather their contact information and request their account of the accident. Witness statements can help identify the hit-and-run driver.
- File a police report. Ensure that the police file a report documenting the hit-and-run accident. This report is essential for your insurance claim and any potential legal action.
- Notify your insurance company. Call your insurance company to report the crash. Provide them with the police report number and any other relevant details.
- Consult a Queens car accident lawyer. Speak with an attorney to review your legal options. They can guide you through submitting a car accident claim and pursuing compensation.
Legal Challenges in Hit & Run Cases
Hit-and-run cases present several legal challenges that can complicate recovering compensation. These challenges include identifying the responsible driver, dealing with insurance claims, and being aware of New York's no-fault insurance laws.
Identifying the Responsible Driver
One of the biggest challenges in hit-and-run cases is identifying the responsible driver. Without the other driver's information, it can be difficult to hold them accountable.
A skilled Queens car accident attorney can work with police to track down the hit-and-run culprit using evidence such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and vehicle debris.
Understanding New York's No-Fault Insurance Laws
New York's no-fault insurance laws require your insurer to cover your medical bills and lost pay, regardless of who is at fault.
However, no-fault insurance has limits, and you may need to demand additional compensation via a personal injury lawsuit. Knowing these laws is vital for handling the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident.
How a Queens Hit & Run Accident Lawyer Can Help
- Gathering evidence. A Queens hit-and-run accident lawyer will gather all available evidence to build a strong case. This includes obtaining surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports.
- Dealing with insurance companies. Your lawyer will handle negotiations with the insurer for you. They will work to help you receive the maximum compensation for your catastrophic injuries and property damage.
- Filing legal claims. Your lawyer can submit a personal injury lawsuit to seek additional compensation if required. They will fight for your rights in court.
- Maximizing compensation. A lawyer can help you boost your compensation by thoroughly evaluating your case. They will cover all aspects of your injury, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Providing legal guidance. Your lawyer will provide you with legal guidance and support during the process. They will help you understand your rights and make informed decisions about your case.
Factors Determining the Size of Your Settlement After a hit-and-run
- Severity of injuries. The severity of your injuries plays a major role in determining the size of your settlement. Serious injuries often result in higher compensation due to the impact on your life and the cost of medical treatment after a car accident.
- Medical expenses. Your medical expenses, including hospital bills, rehabilitation, and ongoing care, will be considered. The higher your medical costs, the larger your potential settlement.
- Lost wages. You can seek compensation for lost wages if you miss work due to your injuries. The longer you cannot work, the more compensation you may receive.
- Property damage. The extent of damage to your vehicle and any other property will affect your settlement. Repair or replacement costs will be factored into the total compensation.
- Emotional distress. Emotional distress, pain, and suffering can also influence the size of your settlement. These non-economic damages are subjective but can significantly increase your compensation.
FAQs
What should I do immediately after a hit-and-run accident in Queens?
Ensure your safety, seek medical attention, report the incident to the police, and gather as much evidence as possible, including witness statements.
Can I still get compensation if the hit-and-run driver is not found?
Yes, you may be able to file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage or through other insurance options available in New York.
How can a lawyer help with a hit-and-run case?
A lawyer can assist in identifying the responsible driver, filing insurance claims, and representing you in court to ensure you receive fair compensation. We put our clients first.
Contact Our Queens Hit & Run Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation
If you've been involved in a hit-and-run accident, don't wait to seek legal help. At Davidoff Law, our Queens car accident lawyers have experience with all types of car accidents. Now, our auto accident lawyer can help you as well. Maximize your personal injury protection. Let us help you seek compensation for your medical bills and car accident injuries.
Contact our experienced car accident lawyers for a free consultation. Let our legal team go through your car accident injury claim.
