17 Oct What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Long Island
A car accident is stressful enough, but when the other driver flees the scene, it can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. Hit-and-run accidents are unfortunately common in New York, and victims often face unique challenges in securing compensation for their injuries and damages.
If you’ve been involved in a hit and run in Long Island, knowing the right steps to take can protect your health, your rights, and your ability to recover financially.
Step 1: Call 911 Immediately
Your safety and health come first. Call 911 right away to report the accident and request medical help if needed. Police reports are critical in hit-and-run accidents—they create official documentation of the incident, which will be necessary for insurance and legal claims.
Step 2: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are physically able, try to collect as much information as possible, including:
- Photos of your vehicle damage, injuries, and the surrounding area.
- Details about the fleeing vehicle (make, model, color, license plate if visible).
- Witness names and contact information.
The more evidence you have, the stronger your claim will be, even if the other driver is never identified.
Step 3: Notify Your Insurance Company
In New York, your uninsured motorist accident (UM) coverage can help when the at-fault driver cannot be located. This coverage can provide compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering after a hit-and-run.
Promptly notifying your insurance company ensures your claim is filed correctly. However, insurers often attempt to minimize payouts, which is why legal representation is so important.
Step 4: Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Long Island
Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run can be complicated. From navigating uninsured motorist accident NY claims to ensuring your medical bills and lost wages are covered, the process is rarely straightforward.
An experienced car accident lawyer in Long Island can:
- Protect your rights against insurance company tactics.
- Guide you through filing UM claims.
- Investigate the crash and work with law enforcement.
- Pursue full and fair compensation for your injuries.
Protect Yourself After a Hit-and-Run
The days after a hit-and-run accident are confusing and stressful, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Gruenberg Kelly Della, we help accident victims throughout Long Island navigate complex insurance claims and fight for the justice they deserve.
Contact Gruenberg Kelly Della Today
If you’ve been hurt in a hit-and-run in Long Island, don’t wait to take action. Contact Gruenberg Kelly Della for a free case review today. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling uninsured motorist accident NY cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights.