Experienced Long Island Hit-And-Run Accident Lawyers

Last updated on September 3, 2026

When a driver flees the scene after causing an accident, victims often feel helpless, wondering how they will recover compensation for their injuries and property damage without being able to identify the responsible party.

At The Law Offices of Mark E. Weinberger P.C. in Rockville Centre, New York, our lawyers have helped countless hit-and-run accident victims throughout Long Island, Nassau County and Suffolk County recover the compensation they deserve. With over 40 years of experience in motor vehicle accident cases, we understand the unique challenges these situations present and work diligently to explore every possible avenue for recovery.

What To Do After A New York Hit-And-Run Accident

If you find yourself in this unfortunate situation, take these important steps:

• Call the police immediately and file an official report
• Seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor
• Document the accident scene with photos and videos
• Collect contact information from any witnesses
• Note any details about the fleeing vehicle, including make, model, color and partial license plate
• Report the accident to your insurance company promptly
• Contact a hit-and-run accident attorney before discussing settlement options

These actions create a strong foundation for your case and maximize your chances of identifying the responsible driver or securing compensation through other means.

Proving Fault In Your New York Hit-And-Run Accident

Establishing fault in hit-and-run cases requires skilled investigation and evidence gathering. Our attorneys work with accident reconstruction specialists, review surveillance footage from nearby businesses, interview witnesses, and collaborate with law enforcement to identify the responsible driver whenever possible.

When the driver cannot be identified, we focus on documenting the circumstances of the accident to support claims through your own insurance coverage.

Compensation In New York For Hit-And-Run Victims

Despite the challenges of a hit-and-run accident, victims in New York have several potential paths to compensation. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage provides immediate benefits for medical expenses and lost wages regardless of fault. For more serious injuries, uninsured motorist coverage can provide additional compensation for pain and suffering, long-term medical care and other damages.

Everything You Need To Know About Hit-And-Run Accidents In Long Island

Hit-and-run accidents tend to be complex because you must navigate unique insurance rules and strict legal timelines without an identified driver. To help you understand your situation better, we answer the common questions about the topic.

Can I sue the hit-and-run driver if they’re identified later?

Yes, you can sue the hit-and-run-driver once the police have identified them. But because New York is a no-fault state, you can only file a claim for pain and suffering if your injury meets the statutory serious injury threshold. These can include, but are not limited to, dismemberment, significant disfigurement, bone fractures and permanent loss of a bodily function.

While you can hold the hit-and-run driver accountable for your damages, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. For wrongful death, you must take action within two years of the date of death. A late identification does not extend these deadlines.

When does MVAIC apply to a hit-and-run accident?

The Motor Vehicle Accident Indemnification Corporation (MVAIC) is a state fund that helps you recover damages when you have no other options available. Qualifying for this means being an injured victim of a hit-and-run or uninsured driver’s negligence in New York. You must not have another auto insurance policy that covers you or anyone in your household.

Filing for MVAIC benefits also requires meeting strict deadlines. You must report the accident to the police within 24 hours or as soon as reasonably possible. If the driver remains unidentified, you have 90 days of the crash to submit a Notice of Intention (NOI) to the MVAIC.

What if the insurance company says there isn’t enough proof it was a hit-and-run?

If your insurance company challenges your evidence, you may request a framed issue hearing. During this, a judge will evaluate physical evidence and witness testimony to decide whether physical contact occurred.

Contact Our Long Island Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Nassau or Suffolk County, contact The Law Offices of Mark E. Weinberger P.C. at 516-855-3715 or fill out the online form to schedule a free consultation with our experienced New York legal team.