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What Should I Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident in New Jersey?

Date: October 10, 2024
The New Jersey Car Accident Lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC Advocate for Victims Injured in Hit-and-Run Accidents

If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident in New Jersey, your first priority is safety. Ensure that you and any passengers are unharmed. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately to request medical assistance. It is also essential to notify law enforcement to report the accident. A police report will be crucial if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.

While waiting for law enforcement, gather as much information as you can. Note details about the fleeing vehicle, such as its make, model, color, and license plate number. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information—they may have observed critical details. Taking photos of the accident scene, your vehicle, and the surrounding area is also important to document the event.

Avoid pursuing the driver who fled, as this could put you in danger or complicate the legal situation. Stay at the scene, focus on collecting evidence, and wait for law enforcement to arrive. Once the police are on the scene, provide a detailed account of the accident and later obtain a copy of the police report.

What Are the Legal Consequences for the At-Fault Driver in a Hit-and-Run Accident?

In New Jersey, leaving the scene of an accident can result in severe criminal and civil penalties. Drivers involved in an accident causing injury, death, or property damage are legally obligated to stop, exchange information, and assist if necessary.

The penalties for a hit-and-run driver depend on the severity of the accident. If only property damage occurred, the driver may face fines of up to $400 and up to 30 days in jail. However, if the accident caused injury or death, the fines could reach $15,000, and the driver may face imprisonment for up to 10 years.

In addition to criminal charges, the hit-and-run driver may also face civil liability. Victims of hit-and-run accidents have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages through a personal injury claim.

How Can I Recover Damages If the Hit-and-Run Driver Is Not Caught?

One of the most challenging aspects of a hit-and-run accident is the possibility that the driver may never be found. If this happens, you may wonder how to recover compensation for your damages. Fortunately, New Jersey requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage as part of their auto insurance policy. UM coverage protects you when the at-fault driver is uninsured or, in the case of a hit-and-run, cannot be identified.

Uninsured motorist coverage can help cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and other related costs. However, filing a UM claim can be complex, and insurance companies may offer a settlement that is less than what you deserve. Consulting with an attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation.

In addition to UM coverage, New Jersey drivers are also required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. PIP helps pay for medical expenses regardless of who is at fault in the accident. Even if the hit-and-run driver is never found, PIP coverage can help cover your medical bills.

What Are the Time Limits for Filing a Claim After a Hit-and-Run Accident in New Jersey?

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in New Jersey, it’s important to act quickly. The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this time frame may result in losing your right to pursue compensation.

Additionally, insurance companies often have deadlines for filing claims. If you plan to file a UM claim with your own insurer, you may be required to notify them within a certain period after the accident. An attorney can help ensure you meet all necessary deadlines and preserve your legal rights.

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

While you can handle a hit-and-run claim on your own, having legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case. A lawyer can assist with gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and ensuring your rights are protected. In some cases, an attorney may also help identify the hit-and-run driver by working with law enforcement and investigators.

The complexities of hit-and-run cases, especially when the at-fault driver remains unknown, make consulting with an attorney highly beneficial. Legal guidance can provide peace of mind and increase your chances of receiving the compensation you need.

The New Jersey Car Accident Lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC Advocate for Victims Injured in Hit-and-Run Accidents

Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC is here to help you navigate the legal challenges of a hit-and-run accident. Whether you are filing a UM claim or exploring other options for compensation, seeking legal advice early can make a significant difference in your case.  The New Jersey car accident lawyers are here to help.  Call us today at 732-920-8383 or fill out our online form for a free consultation.  With our offices located in Manasquan and Brick, New Jersey, we proudly serve all clients of Middlesex County, Atlantic County, Mercer County, Monmouth County, and Ocean County.