The moments after a New York City hit and run car accident can be confusing and hectic. One of the most important things drivers are required to do under the law is to remain at the scene of the crash. If the at-fault driver obeyed the law by staying at the crash site, you can begin exchanging information and gathering evidence. If the other driver has fled the scene, there are steps you can take to protect your rights.
The first thing you should do after calling the police is look around to see if anyone witnessed the accident. Write down the name and number of anyone in the area who may have seen the crash or saw the at-fault driver speed off. Check to see if there are any traffic cameras at a nearby intersection or security cameras at nearby stores that might have recorded the car.
If you see the driver’s license plate, write it down right away. Even a partial number can help the police catch the hit-and-run driver. Ask witnesses if they saw the plate or remember the color, make and model. Ask if they remember what the driver looked like as well. You should also write down everything you remember about the crash. Take notes regarding exactly what time the accident took place and what direction the vehicle went after the collision.
Police don’t track down every hit-and-run driver, but they will have a greater chance of success if you can provide them with useful information after the crash. If they do track down the driver, you will have an opportunity to get financial support for your medical bills, lost wages, suffering and other related damages by filing a claim in court.
If the hit-and-run driver isn’t found, your New York City car accident attorney can help you get compensation from your own insurance provider. You may be able to receive compensation for your medical bills through your own uninsured motorist coverage. Your car accident attorney will ensure that you are offered fair compensation for all of the damages you have suffered. Contact Wingate, Russotti, Shapiro, Moses & Halperin, LLP at (212) 986-7353 to talk about your situation.