Accidents can happen to anyone at any time, but when a driver leaves the scene of an accident, it can leave victims feeling helpless and alone. Hit-and-run accidents can be devastating and cause severe physical and financial harm to the victims and their families. In times like these, it is crucial to have a compassionate and experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer on your side.
The Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe is committed to helping victims of hit-and-run accidents get the justice and compensation they deserve. With years of experience and a proven track record of success, their team of injury attorneys can provide the guidance and support you need during this difficult time. You don’t have to suffer alone. Let us fight for you and your rights.
Who Is Liable for a Hit-And-Run Accident?
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a traumatic experience. Not only are you left dealing with the aftermath of the collision, but you may also be left wondering how you will recover financially. In Queens, New York, liability laws govern how victims of hit-and-run accidents can seek compensation for their losses.
What Is a Hit-And-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver leaves the scene of a collision without stopping to exchange information with the other driver or providing assistance to any injured parties. Hit-and-run accidents are a serious problem in Queens and throughout the United States.
How Does Liability Work in a Hit-And-Run Accident?
Liability in a hit-and-run accident depends on several factors, including whether the at-fault driver is identified and the type of insurance coverage the victim has. In New York, liability for a hit-and-run accident is determined based on the state’s no-fault insurance laws.
No-Fault Insurance
New York is a no-fault insurance state, which means that in most cases, victims of car accidents are required to seek compensation from their own insurance provider, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Under no-fault insurance, victims of car accidents can receive compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket expenses up to a certain limit.
However, in hit-and-run accidents, victims may not be able to identify the at-fault driver or their insurance information, making it difficult to seek compensation through their own insurance provider. In these cases, victims may be able to pursue compensation through other means.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
One option for victims of hit-and-run accidents is to seek compensation through their uninsured motorist coverage (UM coverage). UM coverage is an insurance policy that provides compensation to victims of car accidents when the at-fault driver does not have insurance or cannot be identified. UM coverage is not required in New York, but it is an optional add-on to most car insurance policies.
If you have UM coverage, you may be able to file a claim with your insurance company for the damages you sustained in the hit-and-run accident. However, it is important to note that UM coverage has limits and exclusions, and not all policies are the same. You should review your policy carefully and consult an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney to determine your legal options.
Personal Injury Lawsuit
If you do not have UM coverage or your coverage is not sufficient to cover your losses, you may be able to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. To do so, you will need to identify the driver and file a claim for damages. However, identifying the at-fault driver in a hit-and-run accident can be difficult, and you may need the assistance of an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney.
How Can an Attorney Help After a Hit-And-Run Accident?
Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a confusing and overwhelming experience, especially if you have suffered injuries or property damage. If you find yourself in this situation, it is essential to seek the guidance of an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney. In Queens, New York, attorneys can help you navigate the legal system, protect your legal rights, and pursue compensation for your losses.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Hit-and-run accidents often leave victims without much information about the at-fault driver. An experienced hit-and-run accident attorney can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident scene and gather evidence to identify the driver. They can obtain surveillance footage from nearby businesses, interview witnesses, and work with law enforcement to track down the responsible driver.
Negotiation With Insurance Companies
If the at-fault driver is identified, their insurance company may be liable for compensating you for your losses. However, insurance companies are often more concerned with protecting their bottom line than compensating victims fairly. An experienced hit-and-run accident attorney can negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Pursuing Legal Action
In some cases, identifying the at-fault driver may not be possible. However, this does not mean you cannot take legal action to recover your losses. An experienced hit-and-run accident attorney can help you explore all available legal options, including filing a claim with your uninsured motorist coverage or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit.
Representation in Court
If your case goes to court, an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney can represent you and advocate for your rights in front of a judge and jury. They can present evidence, call witnesses, and argue on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Contact Our Experienced Queens Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys Today
Seeking the guidance of an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney can help you navigate the legal system, protect your legal rights, and pursue compensation for your losses. The Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe is here to help. Our team of experienced hit-and-run accident attorneys can assist you with all aspects of your case, from investigation and evidence gathering to negotiation with insurance companies and representation in court.
At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, we understand that every hit-and-run accident is unique, and we are committed to providing personalized attention and tailored legal solutions to each of our clients. We will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Contact us today at 718-280-5337 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you navigate this challenging time. Also, subscribe to our YouTube channel for more information about accidents like yours.
For a free legal consultation with a hit-and-run accident lawyer serving Queens, call 516-358-6900
The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information and may not be applicable in your jurisdiction.
