What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident

A hit-and-run accident is one of the most stressful accidents a driver or pedestrian can experience. Unlike other types of accidents, where both parties will exchange contact information, a hit-and-run leaves the other driver or pedestrian feeling vulnerable, confused, and unsure what steps to take next.

On Long Island and across New York State, hit-and-run accidents can result in serious injuries or death, property damage, and emotional trauma.

Understanding what to do following a hit-and-run is important for both the personal safety and health of the driver or pedestrian, and their legal rights and ability to receive fair compensation.

The Law Office of Carl Maltese represents victims of car accidents on Long Island and is an experienced law firm. They can also consult on what to do after a rear-end car accident.

Immediate Steps After the Crash - On the Accident Scene

The very first thing to do when a hit-and-run occurs is to ensure safety. The hit-and-run driver is likely already gone, and if possible, the victim of a hit-and-run accident to move their vehicle out of traffic into a safe location. Check for injuries and, if necessary, call 911 and get an ambulance.

Call the Police Right Away

If a hit-and-run happened, the next thing to do is call the police. New York law requires accident reporting, especially when there is property damage or when bodily injury occurs. The officer or officers who arrive will begin to create an accident report and begin to create an official accident report. This will likely become a very important thing because it will serve as one of the most important pieces of evidence for insurance claims and any personal injury cases that may be filed.

Gather Evidence if Possible

If the other vehicle can be identified, even partially, this information should be shared with the police and recorded. Some of the most important pieces of information you can give a police officer include:

• The license plate number (even partial information can help).

• The make, model, and color of the fleeing car.

• Any distinguishing features such as bumper stickers or dents.

• The direction the other car fled.

Other information from the crash scene should also be recorded, including weather conditions, skid marks, any video or traffic cameras, security cameras and security footage from nearby businesses, and any other information that might support a personal injury or civil lawsuit in the future.

If there are witnesses, their names and contact information should be collected, too. Witness testimony often strengthens hit-and-run accident claims. A witness is usually a non-biased third party who can identify the at-fault party, give their opinion of where the driver fled to, share information that the other driver may have forgotten, and offer other insight into the crash.

It's important to not leave the scene, if possible, until all of this is considered.

Get Medical Attention as Soon as Possible

Knowing what to do after a hit-and-run accident is so important. One of the mistakes people often make is not getting medical attention, or not getting it soon enough. If medical assistance is offered on the scene of the accident, it's wise to take it. Even if you only have minor injuries, keep in mind that conditions like concussions, internal bleeding, or whiplash can get worse over time, or may take hours or days to appear.

Seeking medical attention not only protects your health, but it also helps to link the injuries to the accident. Insurance companies often try to claim that injuries are caused by something other than the accident, but if there are medical reports, it makes it much easier to prove when an insurance provider tries to spin a different narrative.

Reporting the Hit-and-Run to Your Insurance Company

The next thing to do is to reach out to your personal insurance company to file a claim. In New York, driver are required to have an auto insurance policy, and this includes uninsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage is imperative for hit-and-run cases if the at-fault driver cannot be found. This coverage will help victims get the compensation they need for medical treatment, lost wages, and other damages.

You should notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies include very strict reporting deadlines, and if you are too late, you may jeopardize your claim. When you speak with insurance adjusters, it's important to stick to the facts and don't speculate. Even your own insurance company doesn't have your best interest in mind. They will want to pay as little as possible. It's always best to speak with an experienced car accident attorney to learn more about what you can say to the insurance company. They can also be helpful with guidance on what to do after a minor car accident.

Understanding New York Hit-and-Run Laws

New York treats hit-and-run accidents seriously. Under state law:

• Failing to stop after causing property damage can result in fines and up to one year, or more, in jail.

• Fleeing an accident involving injuries is considered a misdemeanor, which may lead to criminal charges.

• If the accident results in serious injury or death, fleeing becomes a felony charge with severe penalties.

Though these laws as in place, hit-and-run crashes remain a common problem on Long Island and in surrounding areas. The law cannot prevent every accident, but it does offer victims a way to get compensation through insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits.

Compensation and Legal Options for Victims

Victims of hit-and-run accidents may pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Possible damages that you have a right to include:

• Medical expenses: Emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, medications.

• Lost wages: Time away from work during recovery.

• Loss of earning capacity: If injuries prevent the victim from returning to the same type of employment.

• Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for the damaged vehicle.

• Pain and suffering: Physical and emotional distress caused by the accident.

• Loss of enjoyment of life: If injuries reduce the ability to participate in hobbies or family activities.

Every case is unique, but an experienced Long Island hit-and-run accident attorney can help victims pursue maximum compensation.

The Role of a Car Accident Attorney

Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident is rarely straightforward. Insurance companies may dispute claims, argue that injuries are unrelated, or attempt to minimize payouts. Having a personal injury lawyer on one’s side makes a significant difference.

The Law Office of Carl Maltese can assist victims by:

• Investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and working with experts.

• Reviewing medical records to prove the extent of injuries.

• Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair settlements.

• Filing lawsuits if insurers refuse to act in good faith.

• Providing guidance through each step of the legal process.

For many victims, legal representation brings peace of mind, allowing them to focus on recovery rather than battling insurers. For more information, these car accident lawyers in Long Island NY may be able to help.

Common Mistakes Victims Should Avoid

After a hit-and-run, emotions run high. However, making certain mistakes can hurt a victim’s claim:

• Failing to report the accident: Without a police report, insurance companies may deny coverage.

• Not seeking medical attention: Delays can make it harder to prove injuries.

• Posting on social media: Public posts can be used against victims during claims.

• Accepting quick settlements: Insurance companies may offer lowball settlements before the full extent of injuries is known.

Avoiding these mistakes helps preserve the strength of a case.

Hit-and-Run Accidents on Long Island

Unfortunately, Long Island sees its share of hit-and-run accidents. Busy roadways, congested traffic, and distracted driving all contribute to the problem. Pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in these incidents.

The Law Office of Carl Maltese has represented many clients who faced life-altering injuries due to reckless drivers who fled the scene. Each case is unique, but one constant remains: victims deserve justice, even when the at-fault driver cannot be located.

Steps to Take in the Days Following the Accident

Beyond the immediate aftermath, victims should also take certain steps in the days following a hit-and-run:

1. Follow medical advice – Attend all appointments and follow treatment plans.

2. Keep detailed records – Save medical bills, repair estimates, and receipts.

3. Document injuries – Take photos of visible injuries and the damaged vehicle.

4. Stay in contact with an attorney – Regular communication helps ensure deadlines are met and evidence is preserved.

Get Fair Compensation Following a Hit-and-Run - Contact The Law Office of Carl Maltese

A hit-and-run accident can leave victims feeling powerless, but knowing what to do makes a major difference. From seeking immediate medical care and reporting the crash to pursuing compensation through insurance and legal action, each step matters.

For residents of Long Island, working with a dedicated car accident lawyer like Carl Maltese provides the support and advocacy needed during a difficult time. Hit-and-run victims may not be able to control the reckless actions of another driver, but they can take control of their recovery and fight for the compensation they deserve.

Victims can seek compensation following a hit-and-run accident. Reach out to the Law Office of Carl Maltese for a free consultation​.