Need a Lockport Hit and Run Accident Lawyer? A hit and run can happen anytime in Lockport, even when you’re careful. An automobile-related accident escalates into a hit-and-run when a driver leaves the scene of the accident.
In the event that you experience a hit-and-run scenario, one of the most important things to do is call an experienced Lockport Hit and Run Accident Lawyer. Aside from guiding you throughout the legal process, our Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers can give you the edge in getting maximum compensation for your injuries. Call us now at (716) 261-2614.
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Why Would a Driver Leave the Scene After an Accident?
New York motorists must uphold local and state traffic regulations every time they’re out on the streets, but sometimes accidents happen and they’re left in a state of shock.
In this case, the driver might react negatively to the situation and as a result try to escape from it. They experience a wave of feelings ranging from guilt to fear to confusion. It gets amplified when the driver is not supposed to be driving, e.g., they don’t have a license, are under the effects of drugs or alcohol, are under medication and have a slow reaction, or when they’re simply not looking at the road.
Most of the time fleeing is an act of fear. Self-preservation might be stronger than obeying the law, or they think they can get away with it. However, doing this can result in more severe consequences, including getting a misdemeanor or even a felony (if there are people injured).
What Should You Do If a Driver Leaves After a Car Accident?
When you find yourself in a hit-and-run accident in Lockport, the first thing you should do is know your rights.
Stop and find a safe spot. If you’re driving a vehicle, pull over and check yourself, your passengers and the car for damages.
Afterward, dial 911 and file a report. Collect as much information about the hit-and-run driver, such as the license plate, the make and model of the vehicle, and its color. Speak with the witnesses and gather names.
Your insurance company will also need to be contacted about the accident. Provide detailed information to the police when they arrive so they can validate your claim and hunt for the perpetrator at large.
Law enforcement personnel will arrive and conduct an investigation by speaking with witnesses. They might check for surveillance footage, such as cameras on traffic lights and business CCTVs. They may check the paint color or see if there was any illegal activity involved (drunk driving or speeding), and gather evidence.
At Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers, we fight for your rights and vigorously work to ensure your best interests are protected throughout the entire legal process. Call us now at (716) 261-2614 so we can start fighting for you.
What Damages Can Victims Get From a Hit and Run Accident Claim in New York?
Generally, automobile accident claims fall under three categories:
- Lost Wages: Lost wages or lost hours of work is the time you spend away from your job since becoming injured.
- Medical Expenses: All medical costs related to the injury you sustained in the hit-and-run are liable for claims. Short-term treatment, such as surgery or going to the ER, as well as long-term treatment, chiropractic care, physical therapy, or counseling due to emotional trauma, may be included as well.
- Pain and Suffering: Any of these in mental or physical form are validated and allowed in claim reasons.
In the event that the driver has left without a trace and the police are unable to find the perpetrator, you may file a claim with your insurance company, specifically under SUM, or Supplementary Underinsured Motorist; PIP, or Personal Injury Protection; and UIM, or Underinsured Motorist coverage.
UIM can pay out a maximum of $50,000 per accident or $25,000 per person, while PIP can cover the first $50,000 in medical expenses. Claiming for SUM has to be on time as it has a short deadline.
According to the Motor Vehicle Indemnification Act, those who have sustained injuries while involved in a hit-and-run and don’t own an automobile can get compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, wages, and benefits. To this end, you must have made contact or have been injured with the perpetrator’s automobile in New York.
To get the maximum compensation you are entitled to receive, hire an experienced hit-and-run injury attorney. Call Buffalo Car Accident Lawyers now at (716) 261-2614. We have the knowledge and the drive to ensure our clients get the best outcome for your case.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for a Hit and Run Accident in New York?
Filing an auto accident claim should be done as soon as you are able. It’s necessary to file a motor vehicle accident report with the DMV within 10 days if there is property damage that’s worth over a thousand dollars. The New York State Statute of Limitations says victims will have three years to file a claim, but for a favorable outcome it has to be done sooner rather than later. This is because evidence, details and contacting witnesses becomes harder as time passes by.
If you have been in a hit-and-run accident, it’s best to immediately call a professional law firm in Lockport who will use their experience and skills to vigorously fight for your rights. Call us now at (716) 261-2614.
Why Do I Need a Lockport Hit and Run Accident Lawyer?
Victims of a hit-and-run will be busy with paperwork, such as evidence to support their claims and medical records they can use to get benefits and compensation.
A personal injury lawyer specializing in hit-and-run scenarios can be of assistance in terms of coaching the victim through various legal and insurance processes, including possibly settling out of court.
You will also be in discussion with your insurance company to get compensation for lost work hours, medical bills, and more. With an attorney by your side, you’ll have a higher chance of receiving the just compensation your claim deserves.
Contact a Lockport Hit and Run Accident Lawyer to Get the Compensation You Deserve!
Things can quickly get complicated when the driver at fault decides to escape. Hit-and-run victims are left to fend for themselves while waiting for the police to apprehend the perpetrator.
However, when you hire the services of our car accident lawyers the situation becomes easier to understand and deal with. A professional will be by your side every step of the way and help you with legal issues and insurance concerns.
As soon as you’re able, call us at (716) 261-2614 to get the help you need seeking justice and compensation for your claim.
