Getting hit by a driver who flees the scene frustrates any accident victim. A hit and run accident New Jersey lawyer can help you understand your options and fight for the compensation you deserve. This happens even when the other driver has disappeared. At Baker Williams Law, we know how overwhelming these situations become. We guide you through every step of the legal process.
Hit and run accidents happen more often than most people think. In New Jersey, thousands of drivers leave accident scenes every year. They leave victims confused, injured, and unsure about their next steps. The good news is that you have legal options. This applies even if the other driver never gets found. Our undefeated track record in personal injury cases means we know exactly how to handle these challenging situations.
What Counts as a Hit and Run Accident in New Jersey?
New Jersey law clearly defines what drivers must do after an accident. Any driver involved in a crash that causes injury, death, or property damage must stop at the scene. They must also provide their name, address, driver’s license number, and insurance information to the other parties.
A hit and run happens when a driver fails to stop and provide this required information. This includes situations where the driver stops briefly but then leaves without exchanging information. Even if the damage seems minor, leaving the scene breaks New Jersey law.
Hit and run drivers in New Jersey face serious penalties. If someone gets injured, the driver can face criminal charges, license suspension, and significant fines. However, these penalties don’t help you get compensation for your injuries and damages. That’s where having an experienced attorney becomes essential.
Types of Hit and Run Accidents We Handle
Hit and run accidents can happen in many different ways. We see common types including rear-end collisions where the at-fault driver panics and flees. Parking lot accidents happen when someone hits your parked car and drives away. Pedestrian accidents occur where drivers hit someone walking or crossing the street.
Bicycle accidents also happen frequently. This especially occurs in busy areas where drivers may not see cyclists clearly. We also handle cases involving hit and run drivers who cause multi-vehicle accidents. They leave the scene while other drivers deal with the aftermath.
Each type of hit and run accident presents unique challenges. However, the legal principles remain the same. You have rights as a victim. There are ways to get compensation even if authorities never identify or catch the other driver.
Your Immediate Rights After a Hit and Run
If you’ve been involved in a hit and run accident, New Jersey law gives you specific rights. First, you have the right to file a police report. You should do this as soon as possible. The police report creates an official record of the incident and starts the investigation process.
You also have the right to seek medical attention immediately. This applies even if your injuries seem minor at first. Many accident injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Having medical documentation from the start strengthens your case significantly.
Another important right allows you to file an insurance claim under your own policy’s uninsured motorist coverage. New Jersey requires most drivers to carry this coverage. It can provide compensation when authorities can’t identify the at-fault driver or the driver doesn’t have insurance.
You also have the right to legal representation. An experienced hit and run attorney can protect your interests. They make sure you don’t accidentally say or do something that could hurt your case later.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Hit and Run
The moments after a hit and run accident are critical for your safety and your potential legal case. Your first priority should always be getting to safety and calling 911. You should still call the police and request medical attention even if your injuries seem minor.
Try to gather as much information as possible about the other vehicle and driver. This includes the license plate number, make and model of the car, color, and any distinctive features. If witnesses saw the accident, get their contact information as well. Many people want to help, but they might leave the scene quickly if you don’t ask for their information right away.
Take photos of everything you can see. This includes damage to your vehicle, the accident scene, your injuries, and any debris the other car left behind. Modern smartphones make it easy to document everything quickly. These photos can provide valuable evidence later.
Don’t try to chase the other driver or put yourself in additional danger. Your safety matters more than catching someone who has already shown they’re willing to break the law by leaving the scene.
How Police Investigate Hit and Run Cases
New Jersey police take hit and run accidents seriously, especially when injuries occur. The investigation usually starts with the responding officer’s report. This documents the scene and gathers initial witness statements.
Investigators will look for physical evidence like paint transfer, broken glass, or other debris that might help identify the other vehicle. They may also check nearby security cameras or traffic cameras that might have captured the accident or the fleeing vehicle.
In some cases, police will issue public appeals for information about the accident. They might also check with local auto repair shops to see if anyone brings in a vehicle with damage consistent with your accident.
However, it’s important to understand that police resources have limits. Not all hit and run cases get the same level of investigation. Having your own attorney can help ensure that authorities preserve important evidence and follow up on all possible leads.
Understanding Your Insurance Coverage Options
Your own auto insurance policy often provides your best source of compensation after a hit and run accident. New Jersey requires most drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage applies when authorities can’t identify the at-fault driver or the driver doesn’t have insurance.
Uninsured motorist coverage typically pays for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It works just like the at-fault driver’s insurance would if they had stayed at the scene. The coverage limits depend on what you selected when you bought your policy. Many people have more coverage than they realize.
Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage is also available in New Jersey. It can help pay for immediate medical expenses and other benefits regardless of who caused the accident. This coverage can be especially helpful while you wait for an uninsured motorist claim to process.
If you have collision coverage, it can help pay for repairs to your vehicle. However, you might still be responsible for your deductible unless authorities find the other driver and their insurance accepts responsibility.
The Role of Uninsured Motorist Claims in New Jersey
Uninsured motorist claims require specialized knowledge of insurance law and careful handling. These claims can be more complicated than regular accident claims because you deal with your own insurance company. Your insurance company might not be eager to pay out a large settlement.
Insurance companies sometimes try to argue that the hit and run driver doesn’t qualify as an “uninsured motorist.” They might also claim that you haven’t met all the requirements for coverage. They might try to minimize your injuries or claim that your damages aren’t as severe as you say they are.
An experienced NJ hit and run compensation attorney knows how to handle these arguments. They can make sure your insurance company treats your claim fairly. We know the specific requirements for uninsured motorist claims in New Jersey. We can help you avoid common mistakes that might hurt your case.
The time limits for filing uninsured motorist claims can also differ from regular injury claims. It’s important to act quickly and get proper legal advice as soon as possible after your accident.
Common Challenges in Hit and Run Cases
Hit and run cases present unique challenges that don’t exist in regular accident cases. The biggest challenge often involves the lack of information about the other driver. Without knowing who caused the accident, it can be harder to prove exactly what happened and who was at fault.
Insurance companies sometimes use this uncertainty to their advantage. They argue that you might have been partially responsible for the accident. They might claim that the other driver might not have been completely at fault. These arguments can affect the amount of compensation you receive.
Witness testimony becomes even more important in hit and run cases. However, witnesses can be hard to find and their memories can fade over time. Physical evidence is also crucial, but you need to preserve it quickly before it gets lost or destroyed.
Another challenge involves dealing with the emotional impact of a hit and run accident. Many victims feel angry and frustrated that the other driver got away. These feelings can make it harder to focus on the legal and medical aspects of recovery.
When You Need a Hit and Run Attorney
Some minor hit and run cases might be handled without an attorney. However, most situations benefit from professional legal help. You should definitely consider hiring a hit and run attorney NJ if you suffered significant injuries. You should also get help if there’s disagreement about what happened or if your insurance company gives you trouble with your claim.
An attorney becomes especially important if authorities eventually find the other driver. In these situations, you might have claims against both the other driver’s insurance and your own uninsured motorist coverage. Coordinating these claims requires legal expertise.
You should also consider hiring an attorney if there are questions about your insurance coverage. Get help if you’re not sure whether you have uninsured motorist protection. Insurance policies can be confusing. An experienced attorney can review your coverage and explain your options.
Time limits provide another reason to contact an attorney quickly. New Jersey has strict deadlines for filing injury claims. These deadlines don’t stop just because authorities haven’t found the other driver.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
The compensation available in hit and run cases depends on your insurance coverage and the extent of your injuries and damages. Through uninsured motorist claims, you can typically recover compensation for medical expenses. This includes both current and future treatment costs related to your injuries.
You can also recover lost wages. This includes both the time you’ve already missed from work and any future earning capacity that your injuries have affected. If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job, this can be included in your claim. The same applies if they require you to work in a reduced capacity.
Pain and suffering compensation recognizes the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve experienced because of the accident. This type of compensation can be significant in cases involving serious injuries or long-term recovery periods.
Property damage compensation covers repairs to your vehicle and any personal property that the accident damaged. If your car gets totaled, you should receive compensation for its fair market value before the accident.
How Baker Williams Law Can Help
At Baker Williams Law, we understand the unique challenges that hit and run accident victims face. Our undefeated track record in New Jersey personal injury cases means we know how to handle even the most difficult situations. We’re committed to getting you the compensation you deserve.
We start every case with a thorough investigation of the accident. This includes reviewing the police report, interviewing witnesses, and examining all available evidence. We also work with accident reconstruction experts when necessary to build the strongest possible case.
Our experience with insurance companies gives us an advantage in uninsured motorist claims. We know the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts. We know how to counter these tactics effectively. We handle all communication with your insurance company so you can focus on your recovery.
We also understand the emotional toll that hit and run accidents can take on victims and their families. We provide compassionate, understanding representation while fighting aggressively for your rights. Our goal is to handle all the legal details so you can concentrate on getting better.
Why Choose Baker Williams Law for Your Hit and Run Case
Choosing the right attorney for your hit and run case can make a significant difference in the outcome. Baker Williams Law brings decades of experience in New Jersey personal injury law. We have a proven track record of success in even the most challenging cases.
We offer free consultations to hit and run accident victims. This means you can learn about your options without any financial risk. During your consultation, we’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you understand what to expect from the legal process.
Our contingency fee structure means you don’t pay attorney fees unless we win your case. This allows you to get the legal representation you need without worrying about upfront costs during an already difficult time.
We also handle all types of personal injury cases. If your hit and run accident involves other legal issues, we have the experience to address all aspects of your case effectively.
Take Action Today
If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run accident in New Jersey, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. The sooner you contact an experienced attorney, the better your chances of preserving important evidence and building a strong case.
Time limits for filing claims are strict. Insurance companies often try to take advantage of unrepresented accident victims. By working with Baker Williams Law, you ensure that we protect your rights from the start.
Contact Baker Williams Law today for your free consultation. We’re available to discuss your case and explain your legal options. Visit our website at https://bakerwilliamslaw.com/ or call us to schedule your consultation. Don’t let a hit and run driver’s actions prevent you from getting the compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. For specific legal advice about your hit and run accident case, please contact Baker Williams Law for a free consultation.