How Should We Handle Hit and Run Accidents?
It is a frightening and confusing experience to be the victim of a hit-and-run accident. It can be even worse when you are not sure who is at fault for the incident. Fortunately, the situation is less confusing if you know how to handle it properly.
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Stay where you are until law enforcement officers arrive.
Leaving the scene of an accident can be a big no-no under New York law, and you must remain where you are while emergency responders arrive. Doing this can help you gather evidence and avoid any penalties for attempting to leave the scene.
2. Report the accident to the police.
Under the New York “No-Fault” Insurance Law, you must report any collision with another driver within 24 hours of the incident, regardless of whether the other party was at fault. This is to ensure that you have time to file a claim for compensation under your insurance policy.
3. Take photos of the damage to your vehicle.
Taking photos of the damage to your vehicle after a hit-and-run is crucial to document the damage for your insurance company and to aid in the investigation. The more detailed the pictures you take, the better your chances of identifying the driver who fled the scene.
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Talk to any witnesses who saw the accident and ask for their contact information.
Using the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who are present at the scene will help law enforcement officers identify the person who fled the accident. This can be particularly helpful if you are unable to remember the license plate number of the fleeing driver.
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Retain the services of a car accident lawyer in New York to help you navigate the process.
It is essential to retain the services of a car accident attorney as soon as possible after a hit-and-run accident. They can guide you through the insurance claims and legal process, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
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Get uninsured motorist coverage for your injuries and property damages.
Under Connecticut law, you must have uninsured motorist (UM) insurance to cover your property damage and medical expenses up to the limits of your policy in case of a hit-and-run. Unfortunately, many people who are involved in hit-and-run accidents do not know that they are required to carry UM.
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Do not attempt to chase down the fleeing driver.
Following the fleeing driver after a hit-and-run accident is not only unsafe, but it could also prevent you from getting eyewitness accounts that may help you identify the fleeing driver. In addition, it might lead police to question who is at fault for the incident.
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Do not try to apprehend the fleeing driver or get into an argument with them.
Although it is tempting to chase down the fleeing driver, doing so is illegal and dangerous. You risk putting your own life in danger, and it is also possible that the fleeing driver may be intoxicated or armed. In addition, chasing down the fleeing driver could also put you at risk of being hit by a police officer.