Road Rage Incident Shows How Serious Hit and Runs Can Be in New Jersey

Hit and runs represent one of the most serious types of negligence imaginable. When you get behind the wheel, you expect other motorists to drive safely – but you know that there is a possibility that someone might crash into you.

What you do not expect is for someone to flee after crashing into you. You assume that people will exhibit the basic decency of stopping, making sure you are okay, and calling first responders on your behalf. Unfortunately, this is exactly what so many drivers fail to do in New Jersey, often after causing serious injuries or even fatalities.

One recent example of a hit and run in New Jersey shows us how serious – and prevalent – this issue really is. If you have been injured or harmed by a hit-and-run driver in New Jersey, you have every right to take legal action and file a personal injury lawsuit. But how exactly do you sue after suffering a hit-and-run in the Garden State? What kinds of issues might you experience?

McDonald’s Road Rage Incident Ends in Hit-and-Run

As anyone can tell, a McDonald’s parking lot can be a surprisingly dangerous place in New Jersey – especially late at night in rough neighborhoods. On March 13th, it was reported that a man had lost his life after being struck outside of a Mcdonald’s in Bucks County. One individual tried to merge onto Route 13 and cut another individual off. A verbal altercation ensued, and the hit-and-run driver claims he was forced off the road into the McDonald’s parking lot. However, surveillance footage confirmed that this was not the case.

In fact, it was the victim who turned into the McDonald’s parking lot with the defendant in pursuit. The victim then apparently approached the hit-and-run driver with a hammer, at which point the driver hit the gas and ran the victim over. The defendant then failed to call the police – attempting to flee the scene and escape the consequences. In the end, he was tracked down and arrested. He was then charged with homicide and causing an accident involving a death or injury while driving without a license. Prosecutors argued against the self defense argument, pointing out that the defendant could have turned right or left instead of running him over to escape the situation.

How Can I Sue After a Hit-and-Run?

After being injured in a hit-and-run, you might be wondering how you can possibly sue. After all, you cannot really hold someone accountable if you cannot track them down. It is important not to give up hope in this situation. As you have seen, surveillance footage and other evidence can be used to track down hit-and-run suspects. The police are good at their jobs, and you can rely on them to use a wide range of investigative techniques.

Cars can be identified by damage, colors, license plate numbers, makes, models, and many other distinguishing characteristics. Surveillance footage is also very common these days. Not only are many vehicles equipped with dash cams, but most stores use security cameras as well. Traffic cameras are placed throughout New Jersey, and police can use this evidence to track down suspects.

You should also know that New Jersey is a “no-fault” state when it comes to car crashes. This means that even if you cannot hold someone liable for your injuries, you can simply turn to your own PIP insurance to recover a settlement. That being said, your insurance policy may not cover the full extent of your injuries. If you find yourself in this situation, you may be allowed to file a direct lawsuit to cover the cost of serious injuries. The same logic applies if you have lost a loved one and you are filing a wrongful death lawsuit on their behalf.

At the end of the day, there are many potential options available if you want to sue a hit-and-run driver or recover compensation for your injuries. Speak with a lawyer for more information.

Where Can I Find a Qualified Personal Injury Attorney?

If you have been injured by a hit-and-run driver in New Jersey, you should get in touch with an experienced personal injury attorney at your earliest convenience. Choose Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. to get started with an effective action plan right away. Even if you cannot locate the hit-and-run driver who caused your injuries, it may still be possible to recover compensation. The sooner you begin the legal process, the better. Reach out today.