A hit-and-run crash can be confusing and devastating for accident victims as they can suffer from major economic and non-economic loss and might not be able to identify the hit-and-run driver. If you have suffered injuries or a damaged vehicle in a hit-and-run car accident, read on to learn how an attorney can help you get compensated for your loss. 

Hit and Run

Hit and Run Accidents in the Bronx 

New York law requires that the driver responsible for any accident should report the accident to the authorities; however, there are many drivers who choose to flee the scene. A hit-and-run accident is when the perpetrator hits a vehicle, pedestrian, bicycle, pet, or personal property and “runs” from the scene of the crime. Even if the driver is not at fault for the accident, if they leave the accident site, they are guilty of a hit-and-run offense.

The high population density and congested roads of New York City mean there is an increased risk of car accidents. According to the NYPD, there were roughly 200 auto accidents every day in NYC in 2021. This includes motor vehicle, bicycle, and pedestrian accidents. A similar trend can be seen in the Bronx area of NYC. Out of 7,700 reported car accidents in NYC, about 1,460 were in the Bronx. Fordham Street in the Bronx is notorious for car accidents, including hit and run cases. 

A responsible driver should stop and ensure everyone involved in the accident is safe, share their contact information, and notify a police officer or other authorities about the accident. The New York Vehicle and Traffic Law 600-2a requires that in any accident that involves injuries, the driver must call the police and file a report.

The fines and penalties of a hit-and-run accident in New York include compensation for property damage, injuries, and fatality. The level of fine or penalty will depend on the severity of the accident. The driver might also have to pay for license reinstatement fees, raised insurance premiums, and points on their license. In addition, they may have to face felony charges which can lead to jail time and a permanent criminal record. 

What Are The Top Causes Of Car Crashes in the Bronx?

The top causes of car accidents in the Bronx, NY, are similar to the causes in other parts of the country. Distracted driving is one of the major causes, including visual, auditory, cognitive, and manual distractions. 

Another cause of car accidents includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which can result in impaired reaction time, muscle coordination, and cognitive function of the driver. Speeding and aggressive driving behavior such as tailgating, improper lane changes, and failure to yield also result in car accidents. Inclement weather can also cause car accidents. 

Common Injuries in Hit and Run Accidents

One of the reasons that the guilty drivers flee the scene of the accident is the severity of the accident. As you can expect, there will be more serious injuries in an accident involving a pedestrian, motorcycle, or bicycle as there is less protection than in a four-wheeled vehicle. The fatality rate of a pedestrian in car accidents is much higher than for drivers in vehicles. The NCHS reports that 7,904 pedestrians died in car accidents in 2020. Some of the most common injuries in a hit and run accidents include the following:

What should I do if I’m in a Bronx Hit and Run Car Accident?

A hit-and-run car collision can happen to anyone at any time. Even a parked car is not safe from an auto collision. You might be tempted to chase the driver, but that is not recommended as it is never safe to engage in any type of car chase. It is better that you call the police and get a police report, which will also benefit you in court.

You should make detailed notes about everything you recall about the accident. This includes the type of vehicle, license plate, physical description of the driver, or any other information that can help law enforcement officers identify the vehicle’s driver. Most of us have smartphones, so make sure you take photos and videos of the accident

If there are any witnesses to the accident, you should ask them to share their contact information. You will also need to contact your insurance company to notify them about the car accident. Lastly, you should get in touch with an experienced lawyer to get compensation for your loss.

How a Hit and Run Collision Attorney Can Help

Having an experienced attorney by your side offers several benefits. Most importantly, they can reduce your stress by handling most of the communication and paperwork that is needed in personal injury claims or property damage compensation. 

They can also help prove liability by presenting solid evidence and sound legal reasoning. Their experience and vast resources can make it easier for you to gather evidence for the car accident. An attorney can also guide you on navigating negotiations with the insurance company, which can be challenging as they will try their best to minimize their car accident insurance payout. 

Contact a Bronx Personal Injury Lawyer 

If you have suffered injuries, property damage, or trauma, Jesse Minc Personal Injury Law can help you recover compensation for your suffering. We know the New York laws applicable to hit-and-run cases and all the different types of compensation that you might be entitled to.

Our personal injury lawyer will work hard to reduce your burden so you can concentrate on recovering from the accident.

There is no need to be concerned about upfront costs, as you will only have to pay us if we settle or win the case.  If you had a loved one who suffered a wrongful death in a hit and run accident, allow us to get you justice. We are proud to have earned a reputation for providing outstanding legal guidance and representation to victims of car accidents. Please contact us to schedule a free consultation for your personal injury case.