What if the Driver Who Caused the Accident Fled the Scene (Hit-and-Run)?

After a car accident in New York or any other state, the parties involved are required to stop and remain at the accident scene. While at the scene, they must exchange information such as their names, contact information, driver’s license number, and insurance information.

When a driver fails to stop and continues driving, this is referred to as a hit-and-run accident. Fleeing an accident scene can come with steep penalties. If a person is injured, the fleeing driver can be charged with a misdemeanor or even a felony if the crash resulted in a fatality.

If a driver did flee the accident scene, you should not do the same. You should stick around and talk to the police as well as witnesses who may have seen what happened. While the driver may no longer be around, they may have left behind some evidence. For example, maybe a car part fell off. Perhaps a witness got a description of the car or driver. Maybe you saw part of the license plate number. Any of this information can be helpful in locating the driver.

What to Do

After a hit-and-run car accident, you should also:

• Call 911. Call for medical help if you or someone else was injured in the crash.
• Call the police. A police officer can come to the scene and get information from you that can help them locate the hit-and-run driver.
• Look for witnesses. Witness statements can be helpful. Get the names and contact information of anyone who saw the accident.

What Not to Do

You should not:

• Follow the fleeing driver. Leaving the scene of the accident could put you in an unfavorable situation, and police could question who’s really at fault. You also run the risk of getting into another accident.
• Hide the accident from your insurance company. Your insurer will help you get your damages covered. Some types of insurance can pay for repairs and other damages.

Will My Losses Be Covered?

As mentioned above, some of the expenses you incurred from the hit-and-run accident may be covered. What exactly is covered will vary based on your policy. Here’s a look at a couple of coverages you may have:

• Collision coverage. This can help repair or replace your vehicle if it’s been damaged in a crash with another vehicle. If you’re a victim of a hit-and-run accident, you may be able to make a claim on your policy even if the other driver isn’t found.
• Uninsured motor vehicle coverage. This can help pay medical expenses, lost wages, or damages to your car, not only if the driver does not have insurance, but also if the driver at fault flees the scene and is unknown.

Contact Us Today

Dealing with a hit-and-run accident can be a stressful situation. Your insurance company should be able to guide you, but in some cases, it may be necessary to seek legal guidance.

Count on a Buffalo car accident lawyer from Steve Foley Law Firm for help. Getting injured is no joke. Choose a board-certified trial lawyer to represent you against the insurance companies in New York. Contact us via (716) 575-3236 or online here to schedule a consultation today.