Table of Contents
- 1 What is Considered a Hit and Run Accident?
- 2 Is It Illegal to Leave the Scene of an Accident?
- 3 Can Someone Be Charged for a Hit and Run Even If There Are No Injuries?
- 4 How Common Are Hit and Run Accidents?
- 5 Collecting Evidence at the Scene
- 6 What Should I Do if I Witness a Hit and Run Accident?
- 7 Can Surveillance Footage Help in Solving Hit and Run Cases?
- 8 Are There Any Time Limits for Reporting a Hit and Run Accident?
- 9 What Should I Do if I Am Involved in a Hit and Run Accident?
- 10 Who Provides Legal Representation for Victims of Hit and Run Accidents?
- 11 Contact New York’s Hit and Run Accident Attorneys
What is Considered a Hit and Run Accident?
When a driver who’s been involved in a car crash leaves the scene without stopping to identify themselves or offer help to anyone who might need it, it’s considered to be a hit and run. The main aspect of a hit and run accident is the failure of the driver to stop and provide their information or help those who have been injured. This isn’t just an ethical lapse in judgment. It’s also a violation of the law.
Different Types of Hit and Run Accidents
There are a few different types of hit and run accidents. It mainly depends on the specific circumstances of the accident. Here are some common hit and run scenarios:
- Property Damage Only: A driver hits another vehicle or someone else’s property (like a fence or mailbox). They then leave without reporting the damage they’ve caused.
- Injuries but No Fatalities: A driver injures a pedestrian, cyclist, or another motorist and leaves the scene without helping the injured person.
- Fatal Accidents: The most severe hit and run cases involve fatalities, where a driver leaves the scene after causing an accident in which someone dies.
Is It Illegal to Leave the Scene of an Accident?
Yes, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident. Regardless of the severity of the accident, drivers are required by law to stop, provide their contact and insurance details, and help anyone who’s been injured.
Fleeing the scene can result in serious penalties. Usually, these penalties include fines, license suspension, and (in some cases) even jail time. The law is designed to make sure that all parties involved in an accident receive the help they need, and that justice can be served.
Can Someone Be Charged for a Hit and Run Even If There Are No Injuries?
Absolutely. A driver can be charged for a hit and run even if the accident only results in property damage and no one is injured. The law mandates that everyone involved must stop and exchange information, regardless of the extent of the damage.
Failing to do so can lead to criminal charges and major legal repercussions. The intent behind the law is to ensure accountability. It’s also meant to provide a way for certain damages to be addressed appropriately.
How Common Are Hit and Run Accidents?
The most recent analysis from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety indicates that both the frequency of hit and run accidents and the number of resulting deaths are on the rise. In 2015, there were approximately 737,100 hit and run accidents (NHTSA, 2016).
This means that a hit and run accident occurred somewhere in the U.S. roughly every 43 seconds during that time. The 2,049 deaths caused by hit and run accidents in 2016 was one of the highest figures ever recorded. The numbers usually increase every year.
Hit and Run Accident Statistics
- Since 2018, the frequency of hit and run accidents in New York City has increased by 25%.
- These accidents are more common in urban areas, where higher traffic density and more pedestrians increase the likelihood of collisions happening.
- Only 5% of drivers involved in hit and run accidents are ever brought to justice.
- Hit and run accidents usually occur at night, probably because visibility is poor and there are fewer witnesses.
Collecting Evidence at the Scene
If you find yourself involved in a hit and run accident (or if you happen to witness one), you’ll need to collect as much evidence as you can at the scene. Collecting evidence can help a lot with the investigation process. Detailed evidence helps the police track down the responsible driver. By collecting evidence, you’ll also be able to make sure that you have the necessary documentation for insurance claims. We’d recommend following these steps:
Observe the Vehicle
Try to remember the make, model, color, and, if possible, the license plate number of the fleeing car.
Observe the Driver
Note any distinguishing features of the driver.
Document the Scene
Use your phone to take pictures or videos of the scene. Pictures of damage to the cars involved can serve as hard evidence.
Talk to Witnesses
If there are any witnesses, get their contact information and ask if they would be willing to provide a statement to the police.
What Should I Do if I Witness a Hit and Run Accident?
Witnesses can provide information that may not be available from other sources. Your observations can help the police identify the vehicle, understand how the accident occurred, and track down the fleeing driver. Here’s what you should do if you witness a hit and run accident:
Stay Safe
Make sure you’re in a safe place and not at risk of being hit by traffic.
Call 911
Report the accident to the police immediately. The sooner you’re able to report the accident, the more likely it is that the police will be able to track down the perpetrator.
Provide Information
Give the police all of the details you observed about the accident and the driver who committed the hit and run.
Stay at the Scene
Remain at the scene until the police arrive and take your statement.
Can Surveillance Footage Help in Solving Hit and Run Cases?
Yes, surveillance footage can be incredibly helpful when it comes to solving hit and run cases. Cameras from nearby businesses, traffic lights, or even private residences can capture details about the accident and the drivers involved.
If you are involved in a hit and run, ask any nearby property owners if their cameras might have recorded the incident. The police can use this footage to identify and locate the responsible driver.
Are There Any Time Limits for Reporting a Hit and Run Accident?
This varies by state, but it’s generally best to report hit and run accidents as soon as possible. The faster you’re able to report a hit and run accident, the more likely it is that the perpetrator will actually be brought to justice.
By reporting the accident quickly, you’ll be helping the police start their investigation while the evidence is fresh (and more likely to be intact). You’ll also be making sure that you’re complying with the law, which means you’ll get to avoid any potential penalties for reporting too late.
What Should I Do if I Am Involved in a Hit and Run Accident?
Hit and run accidents happen, and, sometimes, they’re unavoidable. Here’s what you should do if you’re involved in one:
- Stay Calm: Now is not the time to panic. Try to remain calm and collected.
- Check for Injuries: Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately.
- Move to Safety: If your vehicle is causing some sort of hazard, move it to a safer location if possible.
- Call the Police: Report the accident to the police as soon as possible.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, the damage to your car, and any other relevant details. Get contact information from any witnesses.
- Report to Insurance: Notify your insurance company about the accident. They will guide you through the claims process.
Additional Steps to Take
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it’s a good idea to get checked out by a doctor. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
- Keep Records: Keep records of every interaction you have with law enforcement, insurance companies, and medical professionals.
- Stay Informed: Keep track of any updates from the police investigation and your insurance claim.
Who Provides Legal Representation for Victims of Hit and Run Accidents?
Victims of hit and run accidents usually need legal assistance, since navigating hit and run cases can be especially complicated. Attorneys who specialize in hit and run cases can provide you with the guidance you need if you happen to be a victim of a hit and run accident.
These car accident lawyers can be very helpful when it comes to collecting evidence, dealing with insurance companies, and even serving as representation in court if necessary. They’ll do everything they can to make sure that the victim receives appropriate compensation for their injuries.
Contact New York’s Hit and Run Accident Attorneys
Hit and run accidents are quite serious, and, oftentimes, they come with major legal and personal repercussions. Understanding what constitutes a hit and run, knowing the steps to take if you’re involved in one, and seeking appropriate legal help are all super important when it comes to dealing with these unfortunate events. Stay informed, drive safely, and always follow the traffic laws to help prevent hit and run accidents in the first place.
If you are in New York and have been a victim of a hit and run accident, you should seek legal advice immediately. Lawyers who specialize in hit and run cases can help you understand your rights, as well as the complicated legal process involved. They can guide you through the investigation, help you gather evidence, and, eventually, help you secure compensation for what you’ve been through.
Contact New York’s hit and run attorneys today. Whether you’re a pedestrian who’s been injured due to a hit and run accident, or a driver whose vehicle has been damaged, we’re here to help.