What to Do If You’re Injured in a Hit-and-Run Accident in New Jersey

Experiencing a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling helpless and overwhelmed, but knowing what steps to take next can make a significant difference in your recovery. The shock of the accident, combined with the knowledge that the responsible driver has fled the scene, often leaves victims uncertain about their next steps. In New Jersey, where traffic is dense and accidents are unfortunately common, understanding what to do in the aftermath of a hit-and-run is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the necessary steps to protect your rights, seek compensation, and begin your journey to recovery.

Immediate Actions: Ensuring Safety and Reporting the Incident

1. Prioritize Your Safety

Your safety is the top priority. If you are able, move to a safe location away from traffic. Check on others involved in the accident and, if anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately for medical assistance. Staying calm and focusing on safety is the first step toward recovery.

2. Report the Accident to the Police

Reporting the hit-and-run to the police as soon as possible is critical. Even if the other driver has fled, a police report is an essential piece of documentation for any future legal or insurance claims. Provide the police with as much detail as you can about the fleeing vehicle, including its make, model, color, and license plate number if possible. Witness statements can also be valuable in helping to identify the driver.

Building Your Case: Medical Attention and Evidence Collection

3. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal trauma, may not be immediately visible but can have long-term effects. Additionally, medical records will serve as crucial evidence when filing a claim for compensation. Be sure to follow all recommended treatments and document your injuries thoroughly.

4. Gather Evidence at the Scene

While waiting for the police, try to gather as much evidence as possible. Take photographs of the damage to your vehicle, any skid marks, debris, or other relevant details. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information and statements. This evidence can be invaluable in helping to identify the hit-and-run driver and supporting your claim for compensation.

Navigating Insurance and Legal Support

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. In New Jersey, drivers are required to have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which protects you in situations where the at-fault driver cannot be identified or does not have insurance. Your insurance company will guide you through the process of filing a UM claim and help you understand the benefits available to you.

6. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

Hit-and-run accidents present unique legal challenges, making it essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney in New Jersey. An attorney can help you gather additional evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. Their expertise ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.

Exploring Compensation Options and Legal Rights

7. Consider All Avenues for Compensation

While your uninsured motorist coverage will likely be the primary source of compensation in a hit-and-run accident, there may be other avenues to explore. If the hit-and-run driver is eventually identified, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against them. Additionally, New Jersey has a Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO) that may provide financial assistance to victims of violent crimes, including hit-and-run accidents. An attorney can help you explore all potential sources of compensation.

8. Stay Informed Throughout the Process

The process of recovering compensation after a hit-and-run accident can be lengthy and frustrating. Insurance investigations take time, and if the hit-and-run driver is caught, legal proceedings may add to the timeline. It is important to stay informed about the progress of your case and to be patient. Your attorney will keep you updated and ensure that your case is being handled diligently.

Understanding New Jersey’s No-Fault Insurance Laws

9. Know Your Rights Under No-Fault Insurance

New Jersey follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and other out-of-pocket costs, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. However, in cases of serious injury, you may be able to step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim directly against the at-fault driver, if they are identified. Your attorney can explain how the no-fault system applies to your specific situation and what options you have for seeking additional compensation.

Focusing on Your Health and Recovery

10. Prioritize Your Well-being

While the legal and insurance processes are important, your health and well-being should remain your top priority. Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be emotionally and physically draining. Follow your doctor’s advice, seek support from family and friends, and take the time you need to heal.

Safeguard Your Rights After an Accident in New Jersey

Experiencing a hit-and-run accident in New Jersey can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps afterward can make all the difference in your recovery and pursuit of justice. By ensuring your safety, gathering crucial evidence, and seeking professional legal guidance, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve. DiTomaso Law is dedicated to supporting you through this challenging time, providing experienced legal representation to help you navigate the complexities of your case with confidence.

Schedule a Free Consultation with South Jersey’s Leading Personal Injury Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident in New Jersey, don’t wait to take action. The sooner you seek legal counsel, the better your chances of securing the compensation you deserve. DiTomaso Law has a proven track record of success in handling personal injury cases across South Jersey, including Cherry Hill, Camden, and Burlington County. Our team of attorneys is dedicated to fighting for the rights of accident victims and their families.

Contact DiTomaso Law today for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, discuss your options, and help you take the necessary steps to protect your rights. Whether you’re dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or the emotional toll of the accident, we are here to provide the legal support you need to move forward. Fill out the online contact form or call us now to speak with an attorney who truly understands the challenges you’re facing.

Let DiTomaso Law be your advocate in this difficult time. We’re ready to fight for your justice and ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone—reach out to us today.