What Should I Do if the Other Driver Flees the Accident Scene?

Being involved in a car accident can be incredibly traumatic. To make matters worse, not all drivers are responsible and decide to leave the scene before the authorities arrive. If this reflects your circumstances, it’s in your best interest to enlist the help of an experienced Morris County Car Accident Attorney who can help you attain the justice you deserve. Please continue reading to learn what you should do after a hit-and-run accident in New Jersey. 

What is a Hit-and-Run Accident?

When a motorist knowingly causes an accident and then leaves the scene without providing necessary information about themselves or assistance to those involved, it’s considered a hit-and-run. Despite the laws requiring a motorist to remain at the scene and contact the police, many drivers panic and leave the accident scene without considering the consequences.

Unfortunately, there are numerous reasons why an individual who caused a car crash would decide to drive away. The following includes some of the reasons a driver may flee the scene:

• The driver doesn’t have a license
• The driver doesn’t have insurance
• The car doesn’t belong to them
• The driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• The driver has outstanding warrants for their arrest (trying to evade the police)
• The driver is operating an employer-owned vehicle and doesn’t want their employer to know about the crash

In some cases, a driver may choose to leave because the police are taking too long to arrive at the scene. However, it’s important to understand there are certain circumstances in which you are legally required to contact the police and remain at the scene after a collision. In New Jersey, drivers who fail to fulfill this obligation and flee an accident can face significant consequences as this can be classified as a traffic violation or criminal act.

What Should I Do if the Other Driver Leaves the Accident Scene?

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to resist the urge to chase the at-fault party. If you have sustained injuries it can impact your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. In addition, during your pursuit, you could put yourself and your passengers in more danger. The at-fault party may be erratic, traveling at excessive speeds, or intoxicated, which could potentially lead to another accident and further damage.

When a driver flees the scene, you should immediately contact the police. It’s critical to gather as much information as possible about the other vehicle and driver. This includes the make, model, and color, of the vehicle, as well as the license plate number, and any other distinctive features. Even if you don’t obtain a lot of identifying information on the other party’s car, witnesses may have. If others observed the accident or saw the driver leave the scene, it’s important to speak to them and get their contact information as they may remember something you missed.

At Lutz Injury Law, we are prepared to help you navigate the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident and fight for the compensation you deserve. Connect with our firm today to learn more about how we can assist you during these difficult times.