A hit-and-run accident doesn’t just leave you with physical injuries—it often comes with emotional trauma, financial strain, and a deep sense of injustice. If you’ve been the victim of one in Queens, New York, you’re not powerless. State law gives you the right to seek compensation, even if the driver responsible fled the scene.
Your Legal Rights as a Hit-and-Run Victim in Queens
Under New York law, victims of hit-and-run accidents can file legal claims—even if the at-fault driver hasn’t yet been identified. The fact that someone fled doesn’t remove your right to pursue damages. Once identified, that driver can be held accountable in court for the harm they caused.
In the meantime, Queens residents have several options for pursuing compensation, including coverage through state-run programs designed for cases just like this.
Steps to Take Immediately After the Accident
What you do after a hit-and-run can make or break your case. Start by gathering as much evidence as possible:
Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries
Speak to witnesses and collect their contact information and statements
Save all medical records from the hospital or clinics where you received treatment
Report the incident to the police immediately and obtain a copy of their report
The police report is more than a formality—it serves as a critical piece of evidence when filing a claim, especially if the perpetrator is never caught.
If the hit-and-run driver is eventually located, collect their insurance details and license plate number to help link them to the crash. This information is vital for your attorney and your claim.
What If the Driver Is Never Found?
If the at-fault driver can’t be located or turns out to be uninsured, New York State offers protection through the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC). This program exists specifically to help people in your situation.
MVAIC can provide financial compensation for:
Medical expenses
Lost wages
Pain and suffering
Other accident-related costs
To be eligible, you must meet specific filing deadlines and cooperate fully with the process, which includes providing documentation and responding to inquiries.
Your Own Insurance May Also Help
Even before MVAIC steps in, your own auto insurance policy might offer benefits. If you carry uninsured motorist coverage, you may be able to file a claim through your provider. This type of coverage is standard in many New York policies and can help cover expenses until another party is held liable.
If the hit-and-run driver is later found and has valid insurance, your provider may pursue reimbursement directly from them or their insurer.
Why You Need a Queens Personal Injury Attorney
Navigating the legal system after a hit-and-run can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to recover from injuries. That’s why working with a Queens personal injury attorney is so important.
An experienced lawyer will:
Guide you through the legal process
Gather and preserve key evidence
Coordinate communication with insurers and MVAIC
Help calculate your damages and losses
Represent your interests in court, if necessary
They’ll ensure no step is missed and that your rights are fully protected while you focus on recovering—physically, emotionally, and financially.
Moving Forward After a Hit-and-Run
Recovering from a hit-and-run is about more than medical treatment. It’s about getting justice, accountability, and the resources you need to move forward. Whether or not the driver is identified, the law offers paths to compensation, and you don’t have to take those steps alone.
By working with the right legal team and understanding your options—from MVAIC support to insurance claims—you can start rebuilding with clarity and confidence.
