Being involved in a car accident is a frightening experience, but when the driver who hit you flees the scene, it can make an already stressful situation even worse. Hit-and-run accidents in New Jersey are unfortunately not uncommon, and they leave victims confused about what steps to take next. If you find yourself injured after a hit-and-run, understanding what actions to take is essential. This knowledge can help you ensure your safety, protect your rights, and increase the chances of holding the responsible party accountable.
A hit-and-run accident is when a driver causes an accident and then leaves the scene without providing any contact information or assisting the injured person. In New Jersey, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident, especially if someone is hurt. When this happens, it can feel overwhelming for the injured person who may not know who to turn to or how to recover from their injuries. It is important to know that there are still options available to you, even if the driver cannot be immediately found. At, Freeman Law Center, LLC., we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Ensure Your Safety First
The first thing to focus on after a hit-and-run accident is your safety. If you are injured, it is critical to get medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you feel okay at first, injuries from car accidents do not always show up immediately. Some symptoms may appear hours or even days later. Head injuries, whiplash, and internal injuries are just a few examples of what can go unnoticed in the immediate aftermath of a crash. By seeking medical care right away, you not only protect your health but also create documentation that can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim later on.
If you can safely move after the accident, try to get to a safe area away from the road to avoid further injury. Remaining in harm’s way can increase the danger of being hit by other passing vehicles. Once you are in a safe place, call the police to report the accident. Let them know that the driver responsible for the crash left the scene, and give them any details you remember about the vehicle or driver. The more information you provide, the better chance the police have of tracking down the driver.
Gather Evidence
Even though the driver left the scene, there are still ways to gather evidence that could help you later. If you are physically able, try to take pictures of the accident scene. Capture the damage to your vehicle, any injuries you may have, and any other evidence that could show what happened. If there were witnesses to the accident, ask for their names and contact information. Witnesses may have seen details about the vehicle that you did not notice, such as the license plate number, color, or make and model of the car.
You should also write down everything you remember about the accident while it is still fresh in your mind. Document the time of the accident, the location, and any details about the other car, like its direction or any identifying marks. This information could be very helpful when reporting the accident to the police or when filing an insurance claim.
Contact the Police
It is important to report a hit-and-run accident to the police as soon as possible. When you call, tell them everything you remember about the crash. The police will come to the scene, investigate, and try to find the driver who fled. Filing a police report is necessary, as this will be an official document of the accident. The police report may become important when you file an insurance claim or if you decide to take legal action later.
The police may also investigate further, looking at nearby security cameras or traffic cameras that might have captured the accident. In New Jersey, law enforcement takes hit-and-run accidents very seriously, and finding the driver responsible is often a high priority. However, even if the driver is not immediately found, do not give up hope. There are still steps you can take to seek compensation for your injuries.
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Notify Your Insurance Company
Once you are safe and have reported the accident to the police, it is time to notify your insurance company. Most insurance policies require you to report accidents as soon as possible, so it is a good idea to contact them within a day or two of the incident. When you speak to your insurance company, give them all the details about the accident and the police report. Depending on the type of coverage you have, your own insurance may cover some or all of the costs associated with your injuries and vehicle damage.
In New Jersey, many drivers have Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage, which can be helpful in a hit-and-run case. UM coverage is designed to protect you when the at-fault driver is either uninsured or cannot be found, like in the case of a hit-and-run. If you have this type of coverage, your insurance company may cover medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs. If you are unsure whether you have UM coverage, it is a good idea to review your policy or ask your insurance provider.
Consider Legal Action
Even if the driver responsible for the hit-and-run cannot be found, you may still have legal options. Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims with significant medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. Filing a claim with your insurance company may cover some of these costs, but in some cases, it may not be enough to fully compensate you for your injuries and other losses.
A personal injury lawyer can help you explore all of your options. In some cases, it may be possible to sue for damages, even if the other driver is unknown. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, communicate with your insurance company, and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Additionally, if the hit-and-run driver is later found, a lawyer can assist in taking legal action against them directly.
What to Do If the Driver Is Found
If the hit-and-run driver is located, it is important to know that they will face serious consequences. In New Jersey, leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, and depending on the circumstances, the driver could face jail time, fines, and the loss of their driver’s license. Additionally, the driver may be held responsible for paying your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
If the driver is found, the next step would be to file a personal injury claim against them. This can help you recover the full cost of your medical treatment, vehicle repairs, and other losses. In some cases, the driver’s insurance may cover these expenses, but if they are uninsured or their coverage is insufficient, you may need to take further legal action to collect what you are owed.
How to Protect Your Rights After a Hit-and-Run
It is natural to feel frustrated and confused after a hit-and-run accident, but there are steps you can take to protect your rights. Getting medical attention right away and keeping records of your injuries and treatments is crucial. Cooperating with the police and giving them all the information you have is another important step. Additionally, notifying your insurance company promptly can help you avoid complications with your claim.
Sometimes, hit-and-run cases can take time to resolve. If the driver is not found immediately, you may still have hope that they will be located later. Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and ensure that you take all the necessary steps to recover compensation. Having legal support on your side can make a big difference in how your case is handled and how quickly you receive the help you need.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident in New Jersey, it is important not to face this difficult situation alone. Freeman Law Center, LLC is here to help. With years of experience handling personal injury cases, we can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Freeman Law Center, LLC today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you during this challenging time.