When the responsible driver flees the scene, it complicates the process of recovering compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. However, modern legal tools and investigative strategies have made it more possible than ever in tracking down and run drivers.
In this post, we’ll explore how law enforcement, legal professionals, and even victims themselves can help identify hit and run drivers using both traditional methods and new technologies. We’ll also break down your legal options, resources available in New Jersey, and the steps you should take immediately after a hit and run crash.
What Is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in a motor vehicle accident leaves the scene without stopping to provide information, assist the injured, or report the incident to law enforcement. Under New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 39:4-129), leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense and can result in criminal charges, license suspension, and fines.
Common scenarios include:
- A driver rear-ends your vehicle and speeds off
- A car sideswipes your parked vehicle without leaving a note
- A pedestrian or cyclist is struck and the driver flees the scene
Regardless of the circumstances, the law requires all parties involved in a crash to remain on scene, share identification, and contact the authorities.
What to Do Immediately After a Hit and Run
If you’re the victim of a hit and run, the moments following the crash are crucial. Here’s what to do:
- Call 911 immediately to report the crash and request medical help if needed.
- Do not chase the fleeing driver, as this can put you at risk.
- Try to recall and write down details, including:
- License plate number (even partial)
- Vehicle make, model, color
- Direction of travel
- Time and location of the crash
- Talk to witnesses and ask for their contact information.
- Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, and surroundings.
- File a police report and request a copy.
Notify your insurance company and inquire about your uninsured motorist coverage.
Legal Tools Available to Victims
Even if the hit and run driver isn’t immediately identified, victims in New Jersey have legal tools at their disposal:
1. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
Most NJ auto insurance policies include uninsured motorist coverage, which can help cover:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
This applies even if the driver is never found.
2. Filing a Civil Lawsuit (If Driver is Found)
Once identified, victims can sue for:
- Medical bills and lost income
- Vehicle repairs
- Emotional distress and punitive damages
A qualified hit and run attorney can help build a strong civil case, especially if the hit and run involved reckless or intoxicated driving.
How Technology Can Help Track Down Drivers
Technology plays a growing role in solving hit and run cases. Some of the most effective tools include:
- Home security and doorbell cameras (e.g., Ring, Nest): Homeowners often capture fleeing vehicles without realizing it.
- Dashcams: If you or a nearby driver had a dashcam, the footage could be key.
- Crowdsourcing apps: Platforms like Nextdoor or Citizen allow neighbors to share footage and tips.
- Public records and VIN databases: Attorneys can subpoena DMV and insurance data to match vehicles.
- Social media: In some cases, drivers post about accidents or repair shops share unusual damage reports.
What Happens If the Driver Is Never Found?
Unfortunately, not all hit and run drivers are caught. If this happens, you can still recover damages through your own uninsured motorist policy. Here’s what to expect:
- You must cooperate with your insurer’s investigation
- You may be asked to provide medical records, repair estimates, and witness statements
- You can still work with a lawyer to negotiate a fair settlement
In rare cases, victims may qualify for compensation through the New Jersey Property-Liability Insurance Guaranty Association (PLIGA) if the at-fault driver is later identified and uninsured.
Penalties for Hit and Run in New Jersey
New Jersey treats hit and run as a serious offense. Penalties can include:
- For crashes causing property damage only:
- Fine of $200 to $600
- Up to 30 days in jail
- License suspension for 6 months
For crashes involving injury or death:
- Up to 180 days in jail (or more for severe injuries)
- License suspension for 1 year (or permanent revocation for repeat offenders)
- Fines from $2,500 to $5,000
These criminal penalties do not prevent victims from filing civil lawsuits for additional damages.
Resources for Hit and Run Victims in New Jersey
1. New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety
Offers traffic safety resources and updates on hit and run awareness campaigns.
2. State of NJ MVC – Crash Report Requests
Request your official police crash report.
3. Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO)
Provides compensation for victims of violent crimes, including some hit and run cases.
4. Personal Injury Law Firms
Seek a FREE consultation with Sammarro & Zalarick to explore your options.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Give Up
Being involved in a hit and run crash can be incredibly disheartening, especially when you feel like justice is slipping away. But thanks to technology, proactive police work, and legal options like uninsured motorist claims, you don’t have to suffer in silence.
Document everything, contact the police, use every available tool, and work with a qualified attorney to protect your rights. Whether the driver is found or not, you may still have a path toward recovery and justice.