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Hit-and-run accidents are a distressing reality in Queens, NY, leaving many victims feeling uncertain and vulnerable. Such incidents involve drivers fleeing the scene without providing contact information or aiding the injured, complicating the recovery process and the pursuit of justice.
The densely populated streets of Queens witness a significant number of these accidents each year, highlighting the need for skilled legal representation.
In the aftermath of a hit and run, tackling the legal challenges can seem insurmountable. This is why it is essential to consult with an experienced accident attorney who can guide you through the process.
At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we recognize the emotional and financial burdens these accidents can cause, and we are committed to helping you obtain the full compensation and justice you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit-and-run accident in Queens, you do not have to navigate this difficult time alone. Contact the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
You can reach us at (516) 689-1132. Let our team, led by the expertise of Attorney Ali Awad, assist you in securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
Why You Need a Specialized Queens Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney
Dealing with the consequences of a hit-and-run accident in Queens, NY, involves intricate legal hurdles and the necessity for precise and timely actions. When the responsible party flees the scene, they leave the victim with significant challenges, not only in terms of physical and emotional recovery but also in securing rightful compensation.
This makes the role of a specialized Queens personal injury attorney particularly critical.
A hit-and-run specialist brings a deep understanding of both general personal injury law and the specific intricacies that these cases entail. They are adept at devising strategies for thorough investigations that are crucial when the perpetrator is unknown.
This includes locating potential witnesses, accessing and analyzing traffic and surveillance camera footage, and collaborating with forensic experts to reconstruct the incident and identify the fleeing vehicle.
Understanding New York Hit-and-Run Laws
In New York, the laws concerning hit-and-run accidents are clear and stringent, reflecting the seriousness with which the state treats these offenses. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 600, drivers involved in an accident must stop and exchange information.
If there is an injury, the driver is required to report the accident to the police immediately. Failure to do so is considered a hit and run, categorized as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the severity of the injuries involved.
- Misdemeanor Charges: If the hit and run results in personal injury that is not severe, the driver may be charged with a misdemeanor. Convictions can lead to fines, driver’s license points, and even jail time.
- Felony Charges: If the accident leads to serious injury, the fleeing driver can be charged with a felony. The consequences of a felony conviction are much more severe, including longer jail terms and higher fines.
A local Queens attorney is equipped with the knowledge of these specific provisions and how they are applied in the local courts. They understand the nuances of local judicial processes and can navigate the complexities of the legal system to advocate effectively on behalf of their clients.
This local insight is invaluable in crafting a legal strategy that maximizes the potential for a favorable outcome, ensuring that victims are compensated for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In conclusion, the expertise of a specialized Queens personal injury lawyer is indispensable in these challenging cases. Their ability to navigate the legal landscape, combined with a firm grasp of relevant New York state laws, positions them uniquely to support victims in recovering the justice and compensation they rightfully deserve.
Steps to Take Immediately Following a Hit-and-Run Accident
After a hit-and-run accident, it’s crucial to take immediate actions that will ensure your safety and help preserve important evidence for any legal proceedings. Follow these structured steps:
- Ensure Your Safety:
- Move to a safe location away from traffic.
- Check for injuries and call 911 if medical assistance is needed.
- Contact the Police:
- Dial the police to report the accident as soon as it’s safe to do so.
- Provide them with as much detail as possible about the incident and the vehicle that fled.
- Document the Scene:
- Take photos of your vehicle, any injuries, and the overall accident scene.
- Capture images of any relevant street signs, traffic signals, and potential surveillance cameras.
- Gather Witness Information:
- Collect contact details from anyone who might have witnessed the accident.
- Note down their accounts, which could support your case later.
- Record Your Recollections:
- Write down everything you remember about the accident, including the time, location, and any details about the fleeing vehicle (e.g., color, make, model, or partial license plate number).
- Preserve Physical Evidence:
- Keep any vehicle debris that may have dislodged during the accident.
- Avoid making repairs to your vehicle until it has been documented by the police and assessed by an insurance adjuster.
- Notify Your Insurance Company:
- Inform your insurer about the accident, providing them with the police report number.
- Consult a Hit and Run Accident Attorney:
- Consider seeking legal advice from an attorney who specializes in hit-and-run accidents to discuss your options for pursuing claims and compensation.
These steps are designed to protect your interests and ensure that you have the necessary information and evidence to pursue a legal claim if you decide to do so.
Compensation You Can Claim
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Queens, NY, understanding the types of compensation available to you is crucial. Victims of such accidents are often entitled to various forms of damages, which can help alleviate the financial and emotional burdens following the incident.
Types of Damages Victims Might Be Entitled To
- Medical Expenses: Compensation can cover all medical treatments related to injuries sustained in the accident. This includes emergency room visits, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any future medical care related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: If the injuries prevent you from working, you can claim compensation for lost wages. This also extends to loss of earning capacity if the injuries impact your ability to earn in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages such as pain and suffering are also compensable. This includes compensation for physical discomfort, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life resulting from the accident.
Influence of New York Laws on Compensation
New York operates under a no-fault insurance system for motor vehicle accidents, which means that your own car insurance policy will pay some or all of your medical bills and lost earnings, regardless of who caused the accident. However, for hit-and-run accidents, victims can step outside the no-fault system and pursue a claim against the unknown driver through uninsured motorist coverage or potentially sue for damages if the driver is later identified.
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: This is particularly relevant in hit-and-run cases, where the perpetrator does not stay at the scene. Your uninsured motorist coverage can help compensate for both economic and non-economic losses.
- Serious Injury Threshold: To pursue additional compensation beyond the basic no-fault benefits, you must meet the “serious injury” threshold as defined by New York law. This includes significant disfigurement, bone fractures, permanent limitation of use of a body organ or member, significant limitation of use of a body function or system, or substantially full disability for 90 days.
Understanding these aspects of New York law is essential for maximizing the compensation you receive. Consulting with a knowledgeable hit-and-run accident attorney can provide you with the best strategy to ensure all relevant damages are thoroughly pursued, aligning with New York’s legal frameworks.
Hit-and-Run FAQ
Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims with numerous questions about their rights, the legal process, and potential outcomes. Here are some of the most common questions answered to help you understand your situation better if you find yourself involved in such an incident in Queens, NY.
What should I do immediately after a hit-and-run accident?
Immediately after a hit and run, ensure your safety by moving to a safe location if possible. Call 911 if there are any injuries.
Even if there are no visible injuries, it’s important to contact the police to file a report, as this is essential for any future claims. Try to gather as much information as possible, such as descriptions of the vehicle or the direction it went, and check for witnesses who might help with your case.
Am I covered by insurance for a hit-and-run?
In New York, the no-fault insurance law covers you for personal injury and certain out-of-pocket expenses regardless of who is at fault in an accident. Additionally, uninsured motorist coverage is part of every auto insurance policy in New York, which covers physical injuries caused by hit-and-runs.
This coverage applies when the at-fault driver is not identified and, therefore, considered “uninsured.”
Can I sue the driver if they are eventually caught?
Yes, if the driver who fled the scene is identified, you have the right to sue them for damages beyond what is covered by insurance. This can include significant injuries, pain and suffering, and other losses not covered by the no-fault system.
Working with an experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal steps involved in pursuing such a lawsuit.
What if the police do not find the driver?
If the police are unable to locate the driver, you can still pursue a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage. This allows you to claim for damages up to the limit of your policy.
It is advisable to consult with a lawyer to ensure that you navigate this process correctly and maximize your potential compensation.
How long do I have to file a claim in New York after a hit-and-run?
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York is generally three years from the date of the accident. However, for uninsured motorist claims, this period can vary, often requiring much swifter action.
It is crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that all claims are filed within the required deadlines.
What compensation can I claim in a hit-and-run accident?
Victims of hit-and-run accidents can claim compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you meet the serious injury threshold defined under New York law, you may also seek additional damages for long-term suffering, emotional distress, and more significant financial losses.
How can an attorney help me with a hit-and-run accident case?
An attorney can provide crucial assistance by investigating the incident, handling all communications with insurance companies, ensuring that all necessary documentation is in order, and representing your interests in all legal proceedings. Their expertise can be invaluable in maximizing the compensation you receive, especially in complex cases like hit and runs.
Understanding these facets of your rights and the steps to take can significantly affect the outcome of your case following a hit-and-run accident in Queens. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, it’s beneficial to reach out to a Queens personal injury law firm that can guide you through your specific situation.
Trust an Experienced Queens Hit-and-Run Accident Law Firm
If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Queens, don’t wait to seek the help you need. Contact the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm today to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Our team, led by experienced professionals, is ready to provide you with the guidance and support necessary to navigate this challenging time.
Call us now at (516) 689-1132 to schedule a consultation and discuss your case. We’re here to help you every step of the way. Let us take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your recovery.