What Should You Do If You Are the Victim of a Hit and Run Accident?
Hit and run accidents are on the rise across the nation and in New York City.
According to cars.com, hit and run accidents nationwide increased by 60 percent between 2009 and 2016. Citylimits.org reports that "New York City has suffered from a hit-and-run epidemic for years, and the NYPD is struggling to keep up."
Unfortunately, this fact increases people’s chances of being a victim of a hit and run accident. In a hit and run accident, the party at fault has fled from the accident scene.
What Actions Should You Take if You Are Injured in a Hit and Run Accident?
The following are important actions to take whenever possible:
- Remain at the accident scene. It is a crime in New York to leave the scene of an accident where serious injury or substantial car damage has occurred. Besides, if witnesses are present, you should take down their contact information, which may help you track down the hit and run driver.
- Call 911. If you are injured, you should call 911 as soon as possible. Also report whether anyone else was hurt and provide your cell phone number. You will need to file a police report about the accident.
- Make a note of all the details you can remember or gather. Ideally, you could write down the other driver’s complete license plate number, but if you can only remember a few numbers or the state or a logo on the plate, write down whatever you can. Note the vehicle’s make, color and model along with the vehicle’s year. Was it a four door or two door car? Did it have any other identifying features, such as decals or bumper stickers? Was it damaged, and if so, where and how large was the dent, cracked glass or other damage? Did the vehicle have identifying noises, such as a loud muffler sound? What did the driver look like — male or female, age, appearance and clothing? Were there other passengers, and if so, how many and what details can you remember about them?
- Seek medical attention. If your injuries are serious or if you are injured at all, it is wise to seek medical attention right away. Adrenalin and shock can make you unaware of symptoms. A brain injury, internal bleeding or whiplash may not be readily apparent. Seeking medical attention may be more important than you realize.
When Should You Seek Legal Help?
If your injury is serious or vehicle damages are extensive, you should consult with an attorney. An experienced attorney can advise the best course of action.
In December 2015, there were 38,000 hit and run accidents in New York City, according to a NYPD official who testified before the City Council. While the greater majority of accidents involved only property damage, there were 4,000 accidents where drivers left the scene after someone suffered injury, and 48 of those accidents involved serious injury or death. In these latter accidents, the NYPD’s crash investigation squad was alerted to investigate the accidents.
(Source: Politico New York)
Hit and Run Accidents Remain a Serious Problem
Fast-forward to 2018 to a citylimits.org article written in February that indicated Vision Zero is reducing accidents through lower speed limits, safer street designs and greater law enforcement. However, hit and run accidents are on the rise with a 26 percent increase from 36,000 incidents in 2013 to 46,000 incidents in 2017, based on NYPD statistics. More than 5,000 of the 2017 incidents resulted in injury, and 52 people died. Very few of the accidents resulted in arrests.
What Should You Do if You Are the Victim of a Hit and Run Accident?
You should document as much of the incident as you possibly can. Actions you should take if you are involved in a hit and run accident, include:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Take photos of the car damage and accident scene (if you are able to do so).
- Write down the color, make and model of the other car and its license number (whenever possible).
- Get names and contact information from witnesses.
- File an accident report with the police.
- Report the accident to your insurance company.
- Hire an experienced car accident attorney to help you file reports and gather all necessary information regarding the accident.
Your accident lawyer will be able to gather statements from witnesses, analyze evidence from the accident and the firm’s investigative team may be able to track down the hit and run driver.
At Sackstein Sackstein & Lee, LLP, we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your hit and run accident and evaluate your potential case.
