Car accidents in the Bronx resemble common accidents around the state. Due to high population density and heavy traffic, opportunities abound for negligent drivers to cross into other lanes while overspeeding or go the wrong way. As a result, the borough witnesses a lot of car accidents.
When we talk about New York, more than 3,000 people are injured, and 200 are killed yearly due to car accidents every month. According to the New York Police Department (NYPD), in January 2022 alone, over 7,700 car accidents were reported across NYC, with the Bronx responsible for 1,460. Clearly, this is a lasting issue.
When a driver flees the scene of an accident, it can leave victims feeling helpless. A hit-and-run accident can be incredibly traumatic, both emotionally and physically. In addition to the physical injuries suffered, many people feel violated by the careless actions of the driver who left them behind. Fortunately, those affected by a hit-and-run crash have legal options to help pursue compensation for their damages.
A car accident law firm in the Bronx can provide invaluable guidance when navigating these claims. It is important to understand that each state has different laws regarding hit-and-run accidents. Therefore, consulting with a local lawyer experienced in this area of law is essential for ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.
What Is Considered a Hit & Run?
A hit and run is defined as an automobile accident where one or more drivers involved either fail to stop after colliding with another vehicle or other property (such as a fence or building) or leave without providing contact information to those involved in the incident. In most states, leaving the scene without stopping is considered a criminal offense punishable by fines and jail time, even if no other person was injured during the incident.
Legal Options After Being Involved in a Hit & Run Accident
If you have been involved in a hit-and-run collision as either a victim or witness, there are certain steps you should take right away:
- Call 911 – immediately seek medical attention if needed; then call 911 so police officers can investigate what happened at the crash scene.
- Gather Information – if possible, try to get details on what happened from any witnesses present at the time of impact; also document pictures/video evidence such as license plates and numbers of vehicles involved.
- File Report – file an official police report detailing all relevant information, including your account of events leading to/following the impact.
- Contact Insurance Company – notify your insurance company about what happened so they can start processing claim paperwork accordingly.
- Consult With an Attorney – consider speaking with a car accident law firm for advice on pursuing legal action against responsible parties who fled from the scene without providing the contact information required under state laws.
In some cases, victims may be able to receive compensation through their insurance policy if they have insured motorist coverage included within plan details. However, it’s always best practice to consult with an attorney before making any decisions related to filing claims against negligent drivers.
An experienced lawyer will be able to assess the situation and determine whether filing a civil lawsuit would be a beneficial way to recover losses incurred due to the careless actions of another party involved in the case.
Pursuing Financial Recovery Through Civil Litigation
Civil litigation might be a viable option for pursuing financial recovery if one is unable to obtain adequate compensation through own insurance policy. This involves taking the liable party to court in order to gain reimbursement of damages suffered due to the collision. Depending on the location, the plaintiff may be entitled to monetary damages related to medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, etc.
Furthermore, a successful verdict could also impose punitive damages. Defendants have to pay additional money for their reckless behavior. This is decided by the court to deter others from engaging in similar activities in the future. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding the case, seeking assistance from a professional, experienced car accident attorney ensures rights remain protected throughout the process.
Having a knowledgeable lawyer on your team can be the difference between receiving a fair settlement and being taken advantage of during settlement negotiations. So, contact your local attorney to make an informed decision.
1 Comment
I must say, This article is an incredibly insightful and eye-opening article that sheds light on the crucial issue of hit-and-run accidents. The way the author presents the statistics and real-life stories creates a powerful impact, making readers more aware of the importance of addressing this problem. Furthermore, the article not only raises awareness but also offers practical solutions and initiatives to prevent hit-and-run accidents, which sets it apart and makes it a truly valuable resource. Kudos to the writer for bringing attention to this critical topic and promoting positive change in our communities.