A hit-and-run crash leaves more than physical injuries. It leaves questions, anger, and uncertainty.
Who pays your medical bills?
What if the driver is never found?
Can you still recover compensation?
In New Jersey, you may still have a path forward — even if the at-fault driver fled the scene.
At Morris Downing Sherred, we represent drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians injured in hit-and-run accidents throughout New Jersey. These cases require immediate action, careful documentation, and a clear understanding of how uninsured motorist coverage works.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver:
- Leaves the scene without providing identification
- Fails to report the accident
- Refuses to provide insurance information
- Strikes a pedestrian or cyclist and flees
Under New Jersey law, drivers are required to stop, render aid, and exchange information. When they do not, criminal consequences may follow — but that does not automatically resolve your injury claim.
Who Pays for Your Injuries After a Hit-and-Run?
If the driver is not identified, your claim typically proceeds under your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage.
This surprises many people.
You are not “suing yourself,” but you are pursuing compensation through your own insurance carrier. Once a UM claim is opened, the insurer evaluates the case just as it would if it were defending the at-fault driver.
That means:
- Scrutiny of your medical treatment
- Review of prior medical history
- Disputes about injury severity
- Settlement offers below full value
These are adversarial claims. Legal representation matters.
What If the Driver Is Later Identified?
If law enforcement locates the driver, your claim may proceed against:
- The at-fault driver’s liability insurance
- Your own Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage if limits are insufficient
- Additional responsible parties depending on the circumstances
Preserving evidence early is critical in both scenarios.
What To Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you are physically able, take the following steps:
- Call 911 and request police and medical assistance
- Obtain a police report
- Document vehicle debris, skid marks, and surrounding area
- Speak with witnesses and obtain contact information
- Check nearby businesses or homes for surveillance cameras
- Seek prompt medical evaluation
Even if injuries seem minor, documentation is essential. Insurance companies often question delayed treatment.
Common Injuries in Hit-and-Run Crashes
Hit-and-run accidents frequently involve:
- Pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Motorcyclists
- Multi-vehicle chain reactions
Injuries often include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death
Because the responsible driver fled, these cases can carry significant emotional distress in addition to physical harm.
Why Hit-and-Run Claims Require Legal Strategy
These claims are more technical than standard car accident cases because:
- There may be no defendant to depose
- Insurance carriers may question liability
- Physical evidence becomes crucial
- UM policy language governs recovery
Your insurance company may request:
- Recorded statements
- Independent medical examinations
- Broad medical authorizations
Before agreeing to any of these requests, it is wise to speak with counsel.
How Much Is a Hit-and-Run Case Worth?
The value of a hit-and-run claim depends on:
- Severity and permanence of injuries
- Lost income and future earning capacity
- Medical expenses and future care
- Pain and suffering
- Available UM policy limits
In many cases, policy limits become the ceiling for recovery unless additional defendants are identified.
We carefully evaluate all potential sources of coverage, including stacked policies and household coverage options when applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still recover compensation if the driver is never caught?
Yes. Most claims proceed under Uninsured Motorist coverage if the driver cannot be identified.
Will my insurance company treat me fairly?
Your insurer has contractual obligations, but it also has a financial interest in minimizing payouts. Having representation helps level the playing field.
What if I was partially at fault?
New Jersey follows comparative negligence principles. Partial fault does not automatically bar recovery, but it may affect compensation. Each case requires careful analysis.
How Long Do I Have to File a Hit-and-Run Claim in New Jersey?
Time limits apply, and UM policies may include additional notice requirements. Acting quickly protects your rights.
Speak With a New Jersey Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident in New Jersey, do not assume you are without options.
Before giving recorded statements or accepting any settlement offer, contact Morris Downing Sherred.
We will review your insurance policy, investigate available evidence, and explain your legal options clearly so you can make informed decisions about your case.
Call today or contact us online to schedule a consultation.
