Being involved in a hit-and-run accident is traumatic. Whether it’s minor property damage or a serious injury, fleeing the scene is a crime in New Jersey and victims are often left confused and unsure of their rights. This guide from Galarza & Etwaroo, your Elizabeth, NJ personal injury attorneys, explains the laws, what you should do immediately after a hit-and-run accident in Elizabeth NJ, and how we can help you recover physically and financially.
What Is a Hit-and-Run in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, a hit-and-run is defined under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129. A driver is legally required to stop at the scene of an accident, provide their:
Understanding the implications of a Hit-and-run accident in Elizabeth NJ can help victims navigate the aftermath more effectively.
- Name and address
- Driver’s license
- Vehicle registration
The legal definitions surrounding a Hit-and-run accident in Elizabeth NJ can significantly impact your case.
Understanding the implications of a hit-and-run accident in Elizabeth NJ can help victims navigate the aftermath more effectively.
They must also render reasonable assistance if injuries are involved. Leaving without doing so is a violation and possibly a criminal act.
What are the New Jersey Laws that apply
- Under N.J.S.A. 39:4‑129, anyone involved in an accident must: stop, give name & address, show driver’s license and registration when requested, and provide assistance if someone is injured.
- If someone leaves the scene of an accident involving serious bodily injury or death, that can be charged under N.J.S.A. 2C:12‑1.1 as well.
- Penalties vary depending on severity: property damage only vs. injury vs. fatality. Even for property damage, fines and potential license suspension apply.
Penalties for Hit-and-Run Offenses in New Jersey
If Only Property Damage:
- Fine: $200 to $400 (first offense), up to $600 (second offense)
- License Suspension: 6 months (or longer for repeat offenses)
- Jail Time: Up to 30 days
- Points on License: 2 points
If Bodily Injury or Death:
- Criminal Offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1.1
- Third-Degree Crime: Up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $15,000
- Additional charges may include reckless driving or vehicular assault
What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run in Elizabeth, NJ
- Ensure Everyone’s Safety – Move your vehicle to a safe location if possible. Check for injuries and call 911.
- Do Not Pursue the Fleeing Driver – Chasing the vehicle can put you in danger or compromise legal proceedings. Stay at the scene.
Collect Evidence
- Write down the make, model, color, and license plate (even partial) of the other car
- Photograph vehicle damage, surroundings, tire marks, and any debris
- Get witness contact information
- Note time, date, location, and weather conditions
4. Call the Police
In Elizabeth, NJ, contact:
Elizabeth Police Department – Traffic Unit
Phone: (908) 558-2000
Address: 1 Police Plaza, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
Ask for the case number and a copy of the police report
Report to Your Insurance Company
- Inform your insurer within 24–48 hours
- If the other driver is never identified, uninsured motorist coverage may apply
- Call Galarza & Etwaroo IMMEDIATELY so that they may provide the correct information to the insurance company.
Common Hit-and-Run Scenarios We See
- Rear-end accidents where the other car speeds away
- Pedestrian or cyclist struck and the driver flees
- Parked car hit while unattended
- High-speed crash where the driver abandons the vehicle
In all cases, legal and insurance options depend on how quickly and clearly you act.
When to Contact an Attorney
If you suffer injuries or property damage in a hit-and-run, speak with an attorney as soon as possible. At Galarza & Etwaroo, we can help:
- Locate surveillance or dashcam footage
- Work with police and private investigators
- Handle your insurance claim
- Recover damages for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering
- File suit against the driver if identified
Why Choose Galarza & Etwaroo
- Experienced Trial Lawyers based in Elizabeth
- Fluent in English and Spanish
- No Fee Unless We Win – your consultation is always free
- Deep knowledge of New Jersey traffic and criminal statutes
We’ve recovered compensation for hundreds of accident victims in Union County and surrounding areas.
Need Help After a Hit-and-Run?
Don’t face it alone. Let us help you navigate the legal and insurance maze.
Galarza & Etwaroo, Attorneys at Law
📍 100 Jefferson Street, Suite 201, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
📞 (201) 266-0024
🌐 www.galarzaetwaroo.com
Start your FREE consultation today.
FAQ Section (so people can pick and search specific subtopics)
- What constitutes “leaving the scene” in NJ?
- In New Jersey, “leaving the scene” means a driver involved in a motor vehicle accident fails to stop and provide identification or render aid when required. Under N.J.S.A. 39:4-129, a driver must remain at the scene and provide their name, address, driver’s license, and vehicle registration. Failing to do so is a traffic offense or, in cases involving injury or death, a criminal act.
- What if I only know a partial license plate?
- Even a partial plate can be valuable. Police may be able to use it along with vehicle make, model, color, damage description, and time/location to narrow down suspects. Surveillance footage, traffic cameras, or witness accounts can also help support your claim. Always provide any detail, no matter how minor.
- Can I sue someone if they’re never found?
- If the at-fault driver cannot be identified, you typically cannot file a lawsuit against them, but you may still recover damages through your uninsured motorist coverage (UM). This part of your auto policy can compensate for injuries and losses caused by an unidentified driver. An attorney can help maximize your UM claim.
- How long do I have to file a claim? (Statute of limitations info)
- In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims (including hit-and-runs) is two years from the date of the accident. For property damage only, the limit is typically six years. It’s important to act early to preserve evidence and protect your legal options.
- Will my insurance rates go up if I file a hit‑and‑run claim?
- Your premiums might increase, but not always, especially if you’re not at fault. Some insurers view uninsured motorist or hit-and-run claims differently than at-fault accidents. However, any claim can potentially affect your future rates. It’s a good idea to discuss the potential impact with both your attorney and insurance provider.
