Car accidents are expensive, inconvenient, and often complicated. When the other driver flees the scene, the claim process can be even more challenging. While you may not be able to hold the other driver accountable, you still have options to secure compensation.
Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC has been fighting for injury victims since 1938. Our Melville, NY car accident lawyers are familiar with New York’s no-fault insurance and other sources of compensation that may be available to you. We are ready to provide the guidance and support you need. Contact us today for a free legal consultation with a hit and run accident lawyer in Melville, NY.
Why Partner With Our Melville, NY Hit and Run Accident Attorneys
The hours and days following a hit and run collision can be confusing, but having the right attorney on your side can make all the difference. You can trust our attorneys to handle your case with the utmost professionalism and care.
Free Legal Consultations and Representation on Contingency
We are prepared to answer your questions during a free case review, so you can decide how to proceed with your case. During your consultation, we will listen to your story and discuss your legal options. In addition, we take cases for a contingency fee. That means you pay nothing upfront for our services. We only collect our fees and costs once we win your case.
Personalized Legal Support That Gets Results
Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC offers effective advocacy with a proven track record of success. Our legal team has been fighting for your legal rights for more than 85 years. We have the resources, skills, and reputation to handle complex hit and run claims.
Our firm treats every client like family, providing personalized legal support and vigorous advocacy like we would for our own family. We accept a limited number of cases, so our clients receive the time and attention they deserve. Every case has a dedicated legal team to:
- Handle all communications about the case
- Respond to legal information requests
- Address client questions and concerns
- Gather evidence and file claims
- Represent the client in all legal proceedings
Most injury victims have three years to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party, per CVP § 214. However, the deadline can be much shorter depending on your case information. Personal injury protection claims must usually be filed within 30 days, under NY-CRR § 65-2.4, though there are some exceptions. Don’t risk losing compensation – call our office today to begin the legal process.
New York Laws Against Hit and Run Collisions
Per VAT § 600, any driver involved in a motor vehicle accident that causes death, damage, or personal injury must:
- Stop at the scene
- Exchange license and insurance information
- Provide name, address, and contact details
- Report the incident to law enforcement
When a driver flees the scene, they may be subject to criminal charges and penalties including fines and imprisonment. Even if the other driver flees, remain at the scene and call 911. The attending officer will create a report and gather information that may be useful for your legal claim.
Why Do Drivers Still Hit and Run?
Despite the negative consequences, some drivers still flee the scene of an accident. There are a number of reasons they may make this decision, including:
- Fear of consequences: A driver may leave the scene if they think they will face criminal repercussions for drunk driving, driving without a license, or other infractions.
- Insufficient insurance coverage: Drivers in New York must carry liability insurance, but not all do. The driver may decide to leave the accident site rather than take responsibility for the collision.
- Lack of attention or care: The driver may not know they hit someone, or they may think the accident was too minor to stop.
No matter what their reasoning, a hit and run driver’s poor decision can have significant effects on the victim. Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s dedicated attorneys have helped injury victims recover millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts. We will use all our extensive knowledge and resources to get the compensation you deserve.
Seeking Compensation After a Melville, NY Hit and Run Collision
Drivers in New York must carry no-fault personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, per ISC § 5103. This coverage pays the policy holder for economic losses, such as medical costs, lost income, and other reasonable and necessary expenses related to the accident. The minimum PIP policy limit is $50,000, but drivers can purchase additional PIP protection to raise this policy limit.
If your personal injury protection is not enough, you may seek compensation for bodily injury expenses through your uninsured/ underinsured motorist (UM) coverage. Our Melville personal injury lawyers will review your insurance documents and file claims through the appropriate policies.
Vehicle Repairs and Replacement
PIP and UM do not typically cover damage to your vehicle. Many policies include collision insurance, which pays for vehicle repairs and replacement, up to the policy limit. This coverage is optional.
Our team will examine your insurance coverage information to determine whether your policy covers collision damages. We have a property damage expert on staff who can assess repair and replacement estimates, so you get fair value for your car.
Auto Liability and Civil Claims
In some cases, the authorities identify the hit and run driver. If so, you can pursue compensation for damages that exceed your PIP limit, including non-economic damages like pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment, and diminished quality of life.
Our team will pursue claims through the other party’s liability insurance and file a civil lawsuit against them, if necessary. We are committed to fighting for justice and fair compensation, and we will not give up until the driver is held accountable for your losses.
Get the Compensation You Deserve With the Help of Our Melville Accident Lawyers
Whether or not the other driver is identified, you may have options for financial compensation after a hit and run. Trantolo & Trantolo, LLC’s dedicated accident lawyers in Melville are here to provide the guidance and representation you need. Don’t fight solo. Contact us today to get started with a free legal consultation.
Trantolo & Trantolo
Address: 445 Broadhollow Rd #25, Melville, NY 11747, United States
Phone: 844-999-9999
Opening Hours: 24 Hours / 7 Days A Week