After a hit and run, you may be left wondering how to identify the driver, who will pay for your medical bills, and what your legal options are. A Bronx car accident lawyer can take on your case and help you recover damages.
Chaikin Trial Group Injury Lawyers has won more than $100 million for clients like you. If you were the victim of a hit and run event, a hit and run accident lawyer in the Bronx can help you secure fair compensation.
The Role of a Bronx Hit and Run Accident Lawyer
Building a strong car accident case can be difficult without knowing who caused your crash. A Bronx personal injury lawyer can step in and help by:
- Collecting evidence: We can gather surveillance footage, police reports, and witness statements, and work to identify the driver.
- Calculating your damages: We can evaluate both your immediate and long-term losses to make sure none of them are left out of your claim.
- Handling communication with insurers: We can deal with insurers and work toward a settlement that reflects the full extent of your injuries and other losses.
- Representing you at trial: If a settlement can’t be reached, we can take your case to trial and advocate for you in court.
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Types of Compensation You Can Pursue
Victims of hit and run accidents can recover compensation for several types of damages, including:
- Medical bills: You can recoup the cost of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and future treatment related to the accident.
- Lost wages: You can seek damages for the income you would’ve earned while recovering from the crash.
- Loss of earning capacity: You can pursue damages if your injuries limit your ability to earn income in the future.
- Pain and suffering: You can receive compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Property damage: You can be compensated for damage to your vehicle and other personal property.
- Punitive damages: You may be awarded additional compensation if the at-fault driver’s conduct was especially reckless or egregious.
A Bronx hit and run accident lawyer can help make sure none of your losses are minimized or overlooked by insurance companies.
What is the Deadline to File a Claim in New York?
Per NY CPLR § 214, you typically have three years from the date of a hit and run accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, certain types of claims must be initiated much sooner. For example, uninsured motorist claims often require notice within as little as 30 days, and claims for no-fault (PIP) benefits typically must be filed within 30 days as well.
A Bronx hit and run car accident lawyer can help you meet the applicable deadline.
Who Pays for a Hit and Run Accident in New York?
In most hit and run accident cases, your own auto insurance policy is the primary source of compensation. New York’s no-fault system requires your insurer to provide Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, which can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs regardless of who caused the accident.
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may also provide compensation. This type of coverage can help pay for medical expenses and, in some cases, pain and suffering.
If the hit and run driver is later identified, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against them. This can enable you to recover compensation for all of your financial losses and non-economic damages. Lastly, if a third-party driver or government entity shares responsibility for your accident, you may be able to file additional claims against them.
What Causes Hit and Run Accidents?
Hit and run accidents often occur because drivers panic and flee to try to avoid legal consequences. Reasons a driver may leave the scene of a crash include:
- Driving under the influence: Impaired drivers may flee to avoid DUI charges.
- Lack of insurance: Uninsured drivers often leave the scene to avoid financial responsibility.
- Driving without a valid license: Fear of legal penalties can lead drivers to flee.
- Outstanding warrants or criminal activity: Drivers involved in other crimes may attempt to escape detection.
- Distracted driving: Drivers who cause accidents due to negligence may panic and leave.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident in the Bronx
The steps you take after a hit and run can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. It’s important to:
- Call 911 immediately: Notifying the police ensures that an official accident report is created.
- Document everything at the scene: If you can, take photos of your injuries, the vehicle damage, and the surrounding area.
- Speak with witnesses: Obtain names and contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
- Write down details: Take note of anything you remember about the fleeing vehicle, such as its color, make, model, or license plate number.
- Visit a doctor: Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to see a doctor to rule out internal injuries and create a record of your condition.
- Notify your insurance company: Reporting the accident promptly helps preserve your right to file a claim.
- Talk to a lawyer: A Bronx hit and run lawyer can assess your situation and break down your legal options.
Consult a Hit and Run Accident Attorney in the Bronx
After a hit and run, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. An experienced Bronx hit and run accident attorney from Chaikin Trial Group Injury Lawyers can investigate your accident, work to identify the driver who fled, and help you obtain the compensation you are entitled to.
Book a free case evaluation to find out how you can get justice.
