Being involved in an auto collision is stressful. Matters can be made even worse when the motorist who strikes you leaves the scene of the crash. If you were involved in a hit-and-run car accident in Buffalo, you will no doubt have many questions. You may feel overwhelmed with knowing where to start or how you will be able to recover for your damages without having the other driver’s contact information.
A capable car accident attorney from Richmond Vona, LLC, can take the lead in seeking out the necessary evidence and helping you pursue compensation for your losses. Call our firm today to begin reviewing the details of your case.
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What Defines a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident is when somebody hits another car, truck, motorcycle, or pedestrian with their vehicle and does not pull over to exchange information, but instead flees the scene. New York law requires motorists to stop regardless of who is at fault, how serious the crash is, and what types of vehicles are involved.
If there is property damage but no injuries, drivers only have to exchange information. If someone hits an unoccupied vehicle, they must leave their contact and insurance details on the parked car. However, if a collision results in an injury, motorists must also immediately call the police. Failure to follow the appropriate steps after an incident can result in the event being classified as a hit-and-run that may carry fines and other associated penalties.
Common Examples of Hit-and-Runs
A common scenario surrounding hit-and-run accidents in Buffalo includes drunk drivers who either do not realize they are in an accident or flee the scene because they are afraid of getting arrested. Another example is truck accidents, where large tractor-trailers hit motorists in smaller cars or SUVs and do not realize that they hit somebody due to the difference in the size of the vehicles. Additionally, a person with no license or a suspended license who is involved in an accident may flee the scene to avoid getting in trouble.
Recovering Compensation for a Hit-and-Run Auto Collision
Hit-and-run car accidents in Buffalo differ from other types of car wreck cases because they include criminal penalties and fines for the person who hit the other car and fled the scene. Liability in these cases is also dramatically impacted because fault will often be placed more on the person who left the crash site, even if they were not ultimately the cause of the crash.
In addition, recovering compensation for losses can be much more difficult in these situations. This is especially the case if the motorist who left the scene is never found, or they are located, but do not have insurance coverage. In some instances, a person may have their own supplemental or underinsured motorist coverage, which can help compensate them for their injuries.
Another potential option is seeking help from the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC). The MVAIC allows a resident of New York State to pursue up to $25,000 for injuries sustained in a hit-and-run accident in certain circumstances. However, there are specific things that must happen for someone to qualify. For example, the person who is injured in a hit-and-run must file a police report within 24 hours of the event. There must also be evidence of physical impact on their car, and they must file a notice of intention to file a claim with MVAIC within 90 days of the accident.
Enlist the Help of Our Attorneys After a Hit-and-Run Car Accident in Buffalo
Many complex processes are involved in pursuing damages after an auto collision. Hit-and-run car accidents in Buffalo can be even more challenging to handle effectively. Let our attorneys help relieve some of these burdens so you can focus on getting back on your feet. We will stand in your corner every step of the way. Reach out to Richmond Vona, LLC, for a free consultation.
With over 25 years of combined personal injury experience, our co-founding attorneys, John E. Richmond and Keith R. Vona, have helped injury victims and their family members recover more than $150 million in financial relief.
John E. Richmond
Co-Founding Member
As one of New York’s top personal injury attorneys, John E. Richmond understands that clients come first. With over a decade of experience representing plaintiffs, he knows how to hold negligent corporations and big insurance companies liable.
In his nearly 15 years in practice, Keith has been consistently recognized for his client service and record of results. He has been selected for inclusion in the New York Super Lawyers® Rising Stars list four times (2013 to 2016), an honor reserved for the top up-and-coming attorneys.
