Hazlet Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers

Q: What Are the Penalties of a Hit-and-Run in Hazlet, New Jersey?

New Jersey law treats hit-and-run accidents seriously, with penalties depending on the severity of the accident. These penalties are property damage only (first offense) with fines of $200–$400, up to 30 days in jail, six-month driver’s license suspension, and two points on your driving record. Accidents involving injuries (first offense) with fines of $2,500–$5,000, up to 180 days in jail, and a one-year driver’s license suspension. Repeated offenses or accidents causing serious injury or death carry more severe penalties.

Being involved in a car accident is stressful, and the situation becomes even more complicated if the at-fault driver flees the scene. In New Jersey, leaving the scene of an accident — a hit-and-run — is a serious criminal offense. Understanding your responsibilities, the potential consequences, and your legal options is essential to protecting yourself.

The Hazlet hit-and-run accident lawyers at Mikita & Roccanova, LLC are experienced in guiding victims through the complex aftermath of these accidents. We help ensure clients receive the compensation they deserve while protecting their rights.

What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision fails to stop to provide contact information or render aid. This can involve:

Other vehicles
Pedestrians or bicyclists
Stationary objects, such as mailboxes or fences

Any accident resulting in injury or property damage above a certain threshold requires a driver to stop at the scene, according to New Jersey law. Failing to do so can result in criminal charges, civil liability, or both.

What You Should Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Hazlet

If you are involved in a hit-and-run collision, it is crucial to do the following:

Stop at the Scene: You must stop as close to the accident site as safely possible without blocking traffic. Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense in New Jersey.
Exchange Information: Share your name, address, phone number, insurance information, driver’s license, and vehicle details with other parties.
Report the Accident: Notify the police if there are injuries or property damage. This creates a legal record that may be essential for insurance claims and any potential lawsuits.
Get Medical Attention: Get medical attention right away, even if you do not think you are injured. Keep reports of any medical attention you received.

What Are Common Reasons Drivers Flee the Scene?

While it may be surprising, hit-and-run incidents are more common than many people realize. Some reasons drivers flee include:

Driving without a valid license. Individuals may fear additional penalties or losing their license.
Lack of insurance. Uninsured drivers may attempt to avoid liability.
Previous criminal history. Drivers may fear compounding past offenses.
Driving under the influence. A hit-and-run may be an attempt to conceal DUI involvement.

Regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene does not absolve a driver of liability and often results in more severe consequences.

What Are the Penalties of a Hit-and-Run in Hazlet, New Jersey?

New Jersey law treats hit-and-run accidents seriously, with penalties depending on the severity of the accident:

Property Damage Only (First Offense): Fines of $200–$400, up to 30 days in jail, six-month driver’s license suspension, and two points on your driving record.
Accidents Involving Injuries (First Offense): Fines of $2,500–$5,000, up to 180 days in jail, and a one-year driver’s license suspension.

Repeated offenses or accidents causing serious injury or death carry more severe penalties, including felony charges, longer jail terms, and extended license suspensions.

Insurance Considerations

Even if the at-fault driver cannot be located, you may still recover damages. In New Jersey, you can file a claim through your uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, which is part of your own auto insurance policy.

Be thorough with documentation and evidence, as insurers may scrutinize claims closely.
Include medical records, repair bills, witness statements, and police reports to support your claim.
Keep detailed notes about your injuries, lost wages, and any emotional distress caused by the accident.

Prevention and Safety Tips

While accidents are sometimes unavoidable, there are steps to reduce the likelihood of being involved in a hit-and-run:

Stay alert on the road, especially in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
Avoid distractions, such as using your phone while driving.
Park in well-lit, secure areas to reduce the risk of property damage when leaving your vehicle.
Install a dashcam to capture footage that may help in case of an accident.

Legal Options for Victims of Hit-and-Run Accidents

Victims of hit-and-run accidents may have multiple avenues for compensation:

Insurance Claims: Through your own uninsured motorist coverage or other relevant policies.
Civil Lawsuits: If the driver is located, you may file a claim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
Criminal Restitution: In some cases, courts may require the at-fault driver to pay restitution as part of a criminal sentence.

An experienced Hazlet hit-and-run accident lawyer can help navigate the complexities of these claims, ensure deadlines are met, and maximize potential recovery.

Get Legal Help – Contact Our Experienced Hazlet Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyers at Mikita & Roccanova, LLC

Hit-and-run accidents can be stressful, confusing, and financially draining. Our Hazlet hit-and-run accident lawyers at Mikita & Roccanova, LLC have extensive experience handling these cases. We work to protect your rights, navigate insurance claims, and hold negligent drivers accountable. Call 732-705-3363 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Our offices in Hazlet and Highland Park, NJ, proudly serve clients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania.