What if the Other Driver Flees After Hitting a Cyclist in New York?
A hit-and-run bicycle accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed, vulnerable, and uncertain about your next steps. Unfortunately, hit-and-run bicycle accidents are prevalent in New York City and throughout the state. If you have been a victim of such an accident, you still have legal options to seek compensation. This article discusses the steps to take immediately after a hit-and-run bicycle accident and the avenues you have for pursuing compensation.
Steps To Take After a Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accident
If a driver flees the scene after hitting a bicyclist, it is crucial for the victim to take the proper steps. Taking the right steps can protect your health and legal rights. It can increase your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. Here is what to do after a hit-and-run bicycle accident in New York;
- Ensure Safety
The first step is to ensure that everyone is safe. If possible, move to the side of the road. Check yourself and any other involved parties for injuries.
- Call 911
Immediately call 911 to report the accident to the police. The police will prepare an official report, which can be critical if you pursue an insurance claim or legal action.
- Get Immediate Medical Attention
Your health should be a top priority after a hit-and-run bicycle accident. Seek medical help immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries, especially head injuries, might not present symptoms right away. Additionally, medical documentation is vital for linking your injuries to the accident.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can)
If you are physically capable, try to collect as much information as you can, including;
- Pictures of the scene and your injuries
- Witness information
- The time, location, and other specific details about the car, such as make, model, and color
Avenues for Pursuing Compensation
Fortunately, in New York, the law and insurance policies provide avenues for cyclists to recover compensation even if the at-fault driver is never found.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP)No-Fault Benefits
If you own a vehicle and have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage (also referred to as no-fault benefits), your own auto insurance can cover your medical expenses and lost wages, even though you were riding a bicycle at the time. You can also recover PIP benefits if you reside in the same household as an immediate family member who has PIP coverage.
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
If the driver cannot be located or identified, their vehicle is treated as uninsured. Uninsured motorist coverage is a required component of all auto insurance policies in New York. If you have UM coverage or you live with an immediate family member who has this coverage, you can file a claim and seek compensation.
- Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC)
Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation, or MVAIC, may be an option if you don’t have access to any auto insurance. However, to qualify for compensation, you must;
- Report the accident to the police within 24 hours
- File a claim with MVAIC within 90 days
- Prove that no other automobile insurance is available to you
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run bicycle accident, contact our experienced Long Island bicycle accident lawyer at Jacobson Law to protect your rights and increase your chances of recovering compensation. We serve clients in Suffolk and Nassau counties, across Long Island, and throughout NYC.
