Who Pays for Damages in a Hit-and-Run Accident in New York?

Were you injured in an accident involving a driver who left the scene? If so, getting the money you’re owed might seem out of the question, particularly if police cannot identify the other driver. However, you could still have pathways to New York hit-and-run compensation – and an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you’re entitled to under New York State law.

What Defines a Hit-and-Run Accident in New York?

In New York, a hit-and-run is any accident in which a driver leaves the scene without identifying themselves and offering aid if needed. New York law requires any motor vehicle operator who knows that property has been damaged to stop, identify themselves, and give their contact and insurance information. If the accident resulted in injuries, drivers must also provide aid to anyone injured and report the accident to the police if they’re physically able to do so.

Who Pays for Damages in a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Who pays for hit-and-run accident damages? Several sources of financial compensation are available to those harmed by a hit-and-run driver, including:

• Personal Injury Protection Coverage: The PIP coverage on your own auto insurance policy can pay for your medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages up to the $50,000 policy limit.
• Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: This type of insurance coverage is required by state law, and every car insurance policy in New York must include uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. If the responsible driver cannot be identified, your UM coverage can provide compensation for accident-related losses not covered by PIP.
• Property Damage Coverage Options: If you purchased collision coverage on your auto insurance policy, you can use that coverage to pay for the damage to your vehicle.
• Personal Injury Claims: If the hit-and-run driver is found, you can file a claim against their auto insurance policy for personal injury, pain and suffering, and any medical expenses or lost wages not covered by your PIP. If they have no insurance, you can file a lawsuit against them personally.
• Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation Compensation: The Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation is an additional compensation source if no other coverage is available to the injured person.

No-fault benefits may not be sufficient for serious injuries, so victims may need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit to recover additional damages.

Filing a hit and run claim can be complex, and legal assistance may be needed to navigate the insurance process and protect your rights.

Role of Police Reports and Evidence

Before any insurer will pay on your insurance claim, you will need to provide them with evidence that the accident happened and that you were injured.

You should call the police and ask for a copy of their report about the accident. You’ll need this document to qualify for UM benefits and other benefits. Then, report the accident to your insurer right away. Timely reporting strengthens your case.

Witness statements, video footage, and photos of the accident scene help support the claim. You or your lawyer can gather this evidence so you can give the insurer detailed information about the accident and your claim. Medical records documenting your injuries are also essential evidence for your claim. Your car accident lawyer can gather this evidence so you can give the insurer detailed information about the accident and your claim.

How a Hit-and-Run Lawyer Can Help

Hit-and-run accidents can make you feel confused. You can gain clarity by calling a car accident lawyer in Binghamton who handles hit-and-run cases. A lawyer can:

• Investigate the accident
• Gather evidence
• Attempt to identify the hit-and-run driver
• Assess the value of your claim
• File a demand letter with your insurance company
• Negotiate a fair settlement

If the at-fault driver is found, your lawyer can pursue benefits from them through an insurance claim or lawsuit.

Contact an Experienced Hit-and-Run Car Accident Lawyer Today

When you need a hit-and-run attorney in Binghamton, NY, call Scott C. Gottlieb, Injury Law Attorney. We have a long track record of success in securing large settlements and verdicts for injured people. Once we take on your case, we’ll do everything for you. All you have to do is heal.

Call our office for your free consultation.