Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers in Rochester, NY 

What would you do if another driver hit your car and sped off without a second thought? It’s a terrifying question—and sadly, one too many people in Rochester have to face. Hit-and-run accidents aren’t just infuriating; they leave you feeling stranded, stressed, and unsure of what comes next. 

Recovering from a hit-and-run is more than just fixing your car or paying medical bills. It’s about reclaiming your peace of mind, getting the compensation you deserve, and holding reckless drivers accountable. 

At Horn Wright, LLP, we’ve helped countless victims like you get through the chaos of hit-and-run accidents. Our Rochester car accident lawyers will guide you on what your options are and how you can take steps to protect yourself and your future.

What to Do After a Rochester, NY Hit-and-Run: Taking Control in the Chaos 

After a hit-and-run, your first instinct might be panic—and that’s completely natural. But here’s the thing: taking a few critical steps right away can help you regain control of the situation. 

1. Stay safe and call for help. Are you injured? Is your car in the middle of traffic? Get to safety and call 911. Emergency responders can handle injuries and create a police report, which will be essential later. Don’t forget to get a copy of your police report, as it will serve as key evidence. 
2. Snap pictures—lots of them. Use your phone to capture everything you can: your car’s damage, skid marks, debris, even the weather. If you saw the other car, write down details like its make, model, color, or anything else that sticks out. 
3. Talk to witnesses. If someone saw what happened, get their name and number. People are often more than willing to help, and their account could be key. Maybe they noticed the fleeing car’s license plate or a distinct bumper sticker. 
4. File a police report. Be thorough and specific when talking to officers. If the police can identify the driver, this report will be the foundation of your claim. 
5. Let your insurance company know. This might sound like a headache, but it’s necessary. Your uninsured motorist coverage could save the day here. 

How Rochester, NY Laws Have Your Back After a Hit-and-Run 

New York takes hit-and-run accidents seriously. It’s illegal for a driver to leave the scene without providing their information. Under New York VTL § 600, leaving the scene of a crash is a punishable offense. Depending on the circumstances, a driver can face fines, license suspension, or even jail time. Rochester police don’t take this lightly, and neither should you. 

Thanks to New York No-Fault insurance coverage, you can get help covering medical bills and lost wages—even if the driver is never found. And if the culprit is identified? You might be able to file a claim for additional compensation, like pain and suffering. The law is on your side.  

Our Rochester personal injury lawyers are here to ensure that justice is pursued and that you get the support you need. 

Tracking Down Hit-and-Run Drivers in Rochester, NY: It’s Possible 

Sure, it’s frustrating when a driver flees, but finding them isn’t impossible. Here’s how justice sometimes catches up: 

• Traffic and surveillance cameras: Rochester’s streets, especially busy areas like Lake Avenue or East Main Street, are dotted with cameras. Law enforcement may review footage to track down the car. 
• Eyewitnesses: That good Samaritan who saw the crash? Their account can be gold. A witness might remember the vehicle’s direction, damage, or even a partial plate number. 
• Police investigations: Officers can use clues like paint scrapes on your car or broken pieces left behind to identify the suspect. 

It might take some time, but every lead matters. And don’t forget, private investigators can dig even deeper if the search gets tough. 

What If You Can’t Find the Driver? Don’t Panic—You’ve Still Got Options 

It’s hard not to feel defeated if the hit-and-run driver stays unidentified. But here’s the silver lining: New York requires all drivers to carry uninsured motorist coverage. This policy can cover your medical bills, lost income, and even some of your emotional distress. 

Of course, dealing with insurance companies is rarely smooth sailing. They’re known for playing tricks insurance companies play to settle claims for less than what you deserve. That’s why having an experienced lawyer on your side can make all the difference. 

When Rochester, NY Hit-and-Runs Turn Tragic: Seeking Justice for Loved Ones 

There’s no heartbreak like losing someone you love in a hit-and-run. It’s senseless, unfair, and leaves families grappling with grief and unanswered questions. How could someone just drive away? 

If this happens to your family, wrongful death claims can help ease some of the financial burden. While no amount of money can replace what you’ve lost, these claims can provide compensation for: 

• Funeral and burial expenses 
• Medical bills before your loved one’s passing 
• Lost financial support for dependents 
• Emotional anguish and suffering 

Even if the driver is never found, your family may be able to turn to uninsured motorist coverage for support. You don’t have to shoulder this alone. 

Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Your Lifeline After a Rochester, NY Hit-and-Run 

Let’s talk about uninsured motorist coverage. It’s a safeguard every New York driver has, and in hit-and-run cases, it can make all the difference. UM coverage steps in when the at-fault driver can’t be identified or doesn’t have insurance. 

Here’s what it can cover: 

• Medical expenses: From emergency room visits to long-term physical therapy. 
• Lost income: If your injuries keep you out of work for weeks—or longer. 
• Pain and suffering: Emotional and physical tolls matter too. 

And don’t forget to document the details of the crash thoroughly. Photos, witness accounts, and police reports can strengthen your case and help you secure the compensation you deserve. 

What Compensation Can Rochester, NY Hit-and-Run Victims Receive? 

If you’ve been hit, you’re probably wondering what kind of financial help is even possible. Compensation can vary, but here’s a breakdown of what victims often recover: 

• Medical costs: From ambulance rides and surgeries to follow-ups and medications. 
• Lost wages: Your time off work—whether for recovery or medical appointments—shouldn’t cost you your financial stability. You’ll want a lawyer who can help get your lost wages paid. 
• Pain and suffering: You’re not just dealing with physical injuries. The emotional toll matters too. 
• Property damage: Your car repair (or replacement) costs shouldn’t come out of your pocket, especially if insurance isn’t enough to cover your totaled car. 

If the driver is caught, there’s even a chance for punitive damages. These punishments target reckless behavior like fleeing the scene. 

Why Horn Wright, LLP, is Rochester’s Trusted Car Accident Lawyers 

After a hit-and-run, you’re left feeling vulnerable, stressed, and unsure of what to do next. At Horn Wright, LLP, we’re here to change that. 

With years of experience handling cases like Rochester car accidents and hit-and-runs, our team knows how to stand up to insurance companies and fight for what’s right.  

We’ll take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing. When you’re ready, we’re here to help make things right. Let us handle the tough stuff—you’ve been through enough already. 

Contact us today.