I Was Involved in a Hit and Run. Do I Still Have a Case?
Hit and run incidents, unfortunately, are all too common in New Jersey, New York, and Boston, Massachusetts. These occurrences leave victims feeling helpless and unsure of their rights. But rest assured, we're here to provide the much-needed clarity. You're not alone in this, and yes, you certainly do have a case.
At The Law Offices of Gold, Albanese & Barletti, LLC, we understand that being involved in a hit and run can be a distressing and confusing experience. It's not just the physical trauma; the emotional turmoil and legal difficulties can be overwhelming too. The uncertainty of whether you still have a case following such an incident is a common concern we hear from our clients. That's why we're here to help. Our team is committed to guiding you through this challenging time, ensuring your rights are protected, and working tirelessly to seek the justice you deserve. When you need support, reach out to our skilled personal injury attorneys for support.
New Jersey Is a No-Fault Insurance State
New Jersey operates under the no-fault insurance system. This means that regardless of who was at fault in the accident, your own car insurance policy is responsible for covering some or all of your medical bills. However, the no-fault law does not apply to property damage, which is where the other party's insurance comes into play.
Requirements When an Accident Occurs in New Jersey
When an accident occurs in New Jersey, there are specific steps that you must legally follow to ensure your safety and compliance with state laws. Firstly, immediately stop your vehicle at the scene or as close to it as is safely possible. Be careful not to obstruct traffic further. You must then provide aid to anyone injured in the accident if you're able to do so. This includes calling emergency services if necessary. It's also required that you exchange information with the other party involved, including names, addresses, driver's license numbers, and insurance details.
Additionally, for accidents resulting in injury, death, or significant property damage, you must notify the local police department, county police, or New Jersey state troopers. Failure to meet these requirements may result in a hit and run charge, carrying severe legal consequences.
Your Options for Filing a Claim After a Hit and Run
After a hit and run, you have several options for filing a claim. These include filing a claim with your own insurance company under your personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, or filing a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage if the other driver can't be identified.
Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Provision
Your uninsured or underinsured motorist provisions in your policy can come to your aid when the at-fault driver cannot be located or doesn't have sufficient insurance to cover your damages. This provision is designed to protect victims of hit and runs and can be crucial in ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take if You Were in a Hit and Run
If you find yourself the victim of a hit and run accident, it's crucial to act swiftly and methodically to protect your interests and rights. Here are the steps you should take immediately following the incident:
Stay Calm and Check for Injuries: Before anything else, ensure the safety of yourself and anyone involved. Check for injuries and call 911 if medical attention is needed.
Call the Police: Even if the damages seem minor, reporting the accident to the police is a critical step. A police report will be vital when filing an insurance claim.
Gather Information: Try to take note of any details of the fleeing vehicle, such as make, model, color, and any part of the license plate number you might have seen. Also, look for potential witnesses who might be able to contribute information and get their contact details.
Document the Scene: Take photographs or videos of the scene, including vehicle damages, nearby traffic signals, and any debris or skid marks on the road. This documentation can serve as evidence and help with your case.
Avoid Making Repairs: Do not rush to repair your vehicle before filing an insurance claim. The damages on your car are evidence of the hit and run and are best left as they are until assessed by an insurance adjuster.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible, keeping in mind the details of your coverage for uninsured motorists.
Seek Legal Advice: Contacting a lawyer who specializes in hit and run accidents can help navigate the legal complexities and make sure your rights are fully protected.
By following these steps, you create a solid foundation for your hit and run claim, ensuring the best possible outcome of a distressing situation.
Don't Face Your Hit and Run Case Alone - We're Here to Help
At The Law Offices of Gold, Albanese & Barletti, LLC, we're dedicated to supporting hit and run victims throughout New Jersey, New York, and Boston, Massachusetts. Our experienced team is ready to help you navigate this challenging situation and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
If you've been involved in a hit and run, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to answer your questions, guide you through the process, and ensure your rights are protected. With our extensive experience and commitment to our clients, we're the right law firm to call when you need help with your hit and run case. Reach out to schedule a consultation today. Let us take the weight off your shoulders and fight for you.