Hit and Run Accidents in New Jersey
A hit-and-run accident is when a driver is involved in an accident and leaves the scene without stopping to exchange contact information or help those in need. An experienced car accident attorney in New Jersey can help you navigate a complex claim. Below are some of the most important steps to take when you find yourself in this situation:
Gather Information
Start by writing down any details you remember about the accident, like the time and location. If you caught a glimpse of the fleeing vehicle, try to note things like the license plate, color, make, and model. Write down any identifying features of the driver if you were able to see any, like gender, clothing, and approximate age.
It’s also helpful to speak with witnesses who saw what happened. Make sure to ask for their contact details in case you need more information later.
Report the Hit and Run to the Police
After gathering crucial details, report the hit-and-run to the police. Explain what happened clearly and provide them with any information you collected. The police will take an official report, which is important for filing insurance claims and may assist in locating the driver who left the scene. Be cooperative and try to answer any questions they ask.
Take Photos and Document the Scene
Use your phone to take clear photos of the accident scene, capturing any damage to your vehicle and the surrounding area. Focus on details like skid marks, debris, and any potential property damage.
Make sure to also take note of the weather conditions and anything else that might have influenced the accident. This straightforward documentation will support your case and provide clarity when recounting the event later.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
The aftermath of an accident can be chaotic, especially when you’re dealing with the stress of a hit-and-run. A personal injury attorney in New Jersey will start collecting evidence immediately – everything from camera footage to witness statements, which may become more difficult or impossible to secure as time passes.
Additionally, dealing with insurance companies requires experience due to their inclination toward minimizing payouts. A lawyer knows how these conversations should be handled and is skilled at negotiating fair compensation on your behalf without falling prey to unreasonably low offers.
If you and your attorney find the driver, and the hit-and-run case ends up in litigation, an attorney can represent you in court.
Notify Your Insurance Company
After being involved in a hit-and-run accident, contacting your insurance company to report the incident is important. Reach out to them as soon as possible to share the details of the accident, including the photos and notes you’ve taken – though it’s usually a good idea to speak with a lawyer first.
The Role of Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Insurance
It’s also helpful to know that uninsured motorist coverage can play an important role in these situations, as it offers financial protection when the at-fault driver cannot be identified. This type of insurance can cover damages to your car and medical expenses, providing you with peace of mind during such an unpredictable time.
Recovering from an accident is challenging, especially when you’re trying to manage both your physical recovery and legal matters. It can be overwhelming. Fortunately, you never have to handle it alone. If you have questions and need help with this unfortunate situation, reach out to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer.