A hit-and-run accident can leave you injured, overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. When the at-fault party disappears, it can seem like you have no clear path to recovery.
Fortunately, New York insurance law offers options for you to seek compensation. Understanding the ways you can pursue a claim can help you regain stability even when the perpetrator remains anonymous.
The benefit of uninsured motorist (UM) coverage
If you are injured in a hit-and-run and have auto insurance, your policy’s UM provision may cover your losses. To protect your right to file a claim, you must act quickly.
Reporting the accident to the police within a 24-hour timeframe or as soon as possible is vital. This is because the police report is crucial evidence that shows that the crash happened and that the other driver fled the scene. Failing to do so may jeopardize your ability to recover compensation under your UM coverage.
A safety net for the uninsured
New York’s Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC) program helps pay for injuries from car accidents when the victim has no auto insurance. This matters in the Bronx, where many people walk, bike or use public transit and may not have their own car coverage.
MVAIC has strict requirements. In many cases, injured victims must file a claim within 90 days of the accident. The incident must also usually involve physical contact with the hit-and-run vehicle to qualify. Due to the narrow deadlines and eligibility rules, acting quickly is vital to pursue compensation.
The power of investigation
If the police later identify the hit-and-run driver, your case can shift from a UM or MVAIC claim to a claim directly against the driver. Identification may come from the following:
- Surveillance footage
- Witness statements
- Dashcam videos
Once law enforcement finds the at-fault motorist, their auto insurance may become available to cover your losses from the accident.
This shift can be significant because UM and MVAIC claims are often limited. But a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance may allow you to secure financial support for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages. In some cases, you can even pursue a personal injury lawsuit for maximum recovery.
Your recovery matters
After sustaining injuries in a hit-and-run accident, acting promptly can help you secure the compensation you need to move forward. Our lawyers with Bronx-specific legal experience can help you manage UM, MVAIC and other insurance-related hurdles.