What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident in New Jersey?

Hit-and-run accidents are an unfortunate reality in New Jersey. Some drivers leave the scene of a crash without realizing they were in an accident. Others are concerned about the possibility of an arrest or civil liability for an accident they cannot afford because they can be fined up to $5,000 and spend up to 180 days in jail.

However, you could still recover compensation for your injuries if you were injured in a hit-and-run accident. You have the right to seek legal counsel to pursue your injury case. Let a car accident lawyer at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. assist you with finding the party responsible for your crash and holding them accountable.

Steps to take in the immediate aftermath of a hit and run accident

If you are struck by another driver that immediately leaves the scene of the accident, it is understandable that you may want to follow them. However, the safest option is to pull over immediately. Hit-and-run drivers are often erratic, and attempting to chase them could result in an additional collision. What’s more, you have an obligation to remain at the scene of the crash until the police arrive. This is true even if the other driver refuses to do so. Leaving the scene of the accident could put you in jeopardy as well.

Contact law enforcement

You should notify the police as soon as possible after a hit-and-run accident. It is their responsibility to identify the party that collided with you. Further, any information about the car or driver that you provide to law enforcement could be valuable. In fact, the police can often track down hit-and-run drivers. This is especially common if you have the license plate number or other information, such as the automobile’s make, model, or color.

Contact your insurance company

Depending on the type of policy you carry, your insurance company might be able to help. Some policies will provide coverage even though you were injured by a hit-and-run driver. It is also worth noting that your policy usually requires you to notify the company after a crash. This is to allow them time to investigate the collision. Failure to contact your insurance company could jeopardize your claim—or even your policy.

Schedule a free consultation with our team of car accident lawyers

If you were injured by a hit-and-run driver, our team at Kantrowitz, Goldhamer, Graifman, Perlmutter & Carballo, P.C. is here to help. We may be able to help you aggressively pursue compensation for your injuries. This is true in cases when the other party is identified or when you seek benefits through your own insurance company. Contact us today for a free consultation.