In New York City, you generally have the right to pursue legal action if you are a victim of a hit and run accident, regardless of whether you were a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist. However, before you sue for a hit and run in New York City, you should speak with a qualified personal injury attorney to help you understand the best course of action to maximize your potential financial recovery.
In this blog post, the Glugeth & Pierguidi team will outline some key steps after a NYC hit and run. We will also cover how to gather the evidence you need to build a strong case when suing for a hit and run in NYC.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident in NYC
Make a Report
Contact the police as soon as possible to report the hit and run. Provide them with all the relevant details, including any information you have about the other vehicle involved. You may be obligated to remain at the accident site if you are able to do so, especially if the accident involves physical injury to another party or more than $1,000 of property damage.
An important point to remember is that even if you stop and assess the damage following a fender bender, the law considers it a hit and run accident if there is more than $1,000 of property damage and you fail to exchange information with the other motorist.
Document the Scene
If possible, gather evidence at the accident scene. Take photographs of the damage to your vehicle and any other relevant details, such as skid marks or debris. Also, try to gather any witness statements or contact information. If you have been severely injured and need immediate medical attention, ask if anyone else on the scene can create a record for you.
Seek Medical Attention
If you sustained any injuries, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, you should still get a medical evaluation to document your condition, whether you choose to go to the emergency room or you seek a check-up at urgent care after the crash.
Contact Your Insurance Company
It may seem silly to contact your own insurance company since you were hit by someone else. However, you may be unable to locate the driver or discover that they do not have enough or any insurance. Notify your insurance company about the hit and run incident and provide them with all the relevant details. They can guide you through the claims process and inform you of any requirements or deadlines.
Consult with an Attorney
After a NYC hit and run, be sure to consult with a qualified personal injury lawyer who can help you understand what your claim is worth. The Glugeth & Pierguidi team can assess your case, advise you on the legal options available, and guide you through the process of filing a lawsuit if necessary.
Remember that laws and regulations can vary, so it’s important to seek professional legal advice tailored to your specific situation. If you need to sue for a New York City hit and run, our experienced team of New York City personal injury attorneys can provide you with accurate guidance based on the most current legal information.
What Is the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC)?
New York motor vehicle laws establish a no-fault auto insurance system. This means that regardless of who is at fault in a car accident, injured parties generally seek compensation from their own insurance companies first. However, if you are involved in a hit and run, and the other driver is unidentified, you may have the option to pursue a claim against the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC). The MVAIC compensates eligible victims of hit and run accidents or accidents involving uninsured drivers.
Statute of Limitations
Finally, you must know the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit. In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims arising from a hit and run accident is typically three years from the accident date. However, the specific time limits and deadlines can vary based on the circumstances of your case. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Glugeth & Pierguidi can help.
The Glugeth & Pierguidi Difference
Being injured in a hit and run accident is an unsettling experience regardless of whether you’re in a car or out on the street. However, understanding the steps to take after a NYC hit and run accident can provide comfort in the face of uncertainty. You do not have to navigate these challenges alone. Reach out to the skilled legal team at Glugeth & Pierguidi to learn how we can help after a hit and run. Contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation.
David Pierguidi and Jared Glugeth understand how hard it may be for you and your family following an accident resulting from someone’s negligent actions. Get the medical treatment you need right away and then call our law firm at any time of day for answers to your questions.
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