Hit-and-Run Accidents in New York | Your Legal Options as a Victim
February 6, 2026
Hit-and-run accidents can leave victims feeling helpless and uncertain. When a driver flees the scene, many assume compensation is impossible—but New York law provides protections.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
- Call emergency services immediately
- File a police report
- Seek medical attention
- Document the scene and gather witness information
Insurance Options Available
- No-fault insurance benefits
- Uninsured motorist coverage
Key Takeaways
Always call emergency services, seek medical attention, and file a police report after an accident.
Document the scene and gather witness information to support your claim.
No-fault insurance and uninsured motorist coverage can help you recover compensation even if the driver is never found.
Compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation, and pain & suffering.
Prompt reporting is critical—delays can affect insurance and legal options.
“Injured in an E-Scooter Accident? Know Your Rights and Explore Your Legal Options”
E-scooter accidents in New York can lead to serious injuries, including fractures, head trauma, and internal injuries. Knowing your legal rights is essential, as liability may involve rental companies, negligent riders, drivers, or municipalities. Delays or missing evidence can limit your ability to recover compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you:
Determine available insurance coverage, including personal injury protection and uninsured/underinsured motorist benefits
Gather critical evidence such as ride data, maintenance records, police reports, and witness statements
File claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Pursue full compensation for long-term injuries and financial losses
At LFK Law Practice, P.C., we help New York e-scooter accident victims understand their rights and navigate complex insurance and liability issues to protect their recovery.
Contact us today for a free consultation — let us handle the legal process while you focus on healing.
Bottom Line
Even if the at-fault driver is never identified, New York law still provides injured victims with legal avenues to seek compensation. For instance, individuals may be able to file claims through their own insurance under the state’s no-fault coverage, or explore other legal remedies to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and damages for pain and suffering. This ensures that victims are not left without support, even in situations where the responsible party cannot be located or held directly accountable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What should I do immediately after a hit-and-run accident?
Call emergency services, seek medical care, file a police report, and document the scene. These steps are critical for protecting your claim. - Can I recover compensation if the driver is never found?
Yes. New York law allows victims to seek compensation through uninsured motorist coverage and no-fault insurance benefits. - Is a police report required for a hit-and-run claim?
Yes. A police report is typically required to pursue uninsured motorist coverage and strengthen your injury claim. - What damages are covered after a hit-and-run accident?
Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering, depending on the claim type. - How long do I have to report a hit-and-run accident in New York?
Prompt reporting is essential. Delays can jeopardize insurance coverage and legal options.
References (APA Format)
- New York State Department of Motor Vehicles. (2024). Accident reporting. https://dmv.ny.gov
- Insurance Information Institute. (2024). Uninsured motorist coverage. https://www.iii.org
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2024). Hit-and-run statistics. https://www.nhtsa.gov
