The other driver is gone, your vehicle is damaged and the next steps may feel unclear. That uncertainty is common after a hit-and-run. This article outlines procedural considerations for Rochester drivers.
Start with safety and a police report
Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. Call 911 if anyone needs medical help. Do not chase the other driver.
Report the hit-and-run to police right away. A police report can support your insurance claim later. Drivers must also stop after a crash under New York Vehicle & Traffic Law § 600. Leaving the scene may lead to criminal charges.
Document what you can
Memory can deteriorate rapidly after a traumatic collision. Surveillance footage from nearby properties may also be overwritten within days. Record and photograph the following information as soon as circumstances permit:
- Vehicle details: Color, make, model, partial plate and direction of travel
- Photos: Your car damage, debris and the surrounding area
- Witnesses: Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the crash
- Cameras: Nearby businesses or homes that may have video
Even a partial license plate can assist investigators. Avoid speculating about details you cannot accurately recall.
Get medical care and notify your insurer
Seek medical evaluation even if you feel uninjured. Adrenaline can conceal pain. Certain injuries may not manifest for several days.
New York is a no-fault state. Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage may reimburse medical expenses. It may also compensate for a portion of lost earnings. Your policy might include uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage could apply if the driver is never identified. Notify your insurer promptly that the collision was a hit-and-run.
Watch for short deadlines
Some claims proceed through the Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation, or MVAIC. N.Y. Ins. Law § 5208 generally requires a police report within 24 hours. A notice of intention may be required within 90 days.
You may also need to file an MV-104 report with the Department of Motor Vehicles. This requirement applies if property damage exceeds $1,000.
Why these steps matter for your claim
Safety, a police report, good records and a quick call to your insurer work together. These steps may keep your PIP and uninsured motorist options open. Acting early matters because evidence fades and deadlines can be short. If your situation becomes more complicated, an attorney can help you understand your options.