Being the victim of a hit and run accident in Newark can leave you feeling helpless and overwhelmed. When a negligent driver flees the scene, leaving you with serious injuries and mounting medical bills, you need experienced legal representation who understands Essex County's legal system.
At Corradino & Papa, LLC, we've dedicated more than 25 years to representing hit and run accident victims throughout Newark and Essex County. Our team has recovered over $500 million for injury victims, including substantial settlements for fleeing driver cases. We handle every aspect of your claim while you focus on healing, ensuring you receive maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Why You Need a Specialized Newark Hit and Run Attorney
The Complexity of Hit and Run Cases in New Jersey
Hit and run car accident cases present unique obstacles that don't exist in typical accident claims. The primary challenge involves identifying the fleeing driver, which requires immediate investigation before crucial evidence disappears. Without a cooperative defendant, victims must often rely on their own insurance policies, creating complications with uninsured motorist claims and Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits.
Newark's busy streets present additional challenges for investigating hit and run car accidents. Heavy traffic patterns and limited surveillance coverage in certain areas can make witness identification and evidence collection more difficult. Our experienced Newark personal injury lawyers understand these local challenges and have developed effective strategies to overcome them.
Time Limits to File a Claim
New Jersey's statute of limitations gives you two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, hit and run cases involve additional deadlines that can significantly impact your claim if missed. Your uninsured motorist coverage may require notification within specific timeframes, and certain government claims involving Newark city property have much shorter notice requirements.
The window for collecting critical evidence is narrow. If not promptly preserved, surveillance footage from Newark businesses may be automatically deleted within days. Witness memories fade quickly, and physical evidence can be disturbed by heavy traffic or cleanup crews. Immediate legal action is essential to protect your rights.
Why Choose Us for Your Newark Hit-and-Run Case?
Proven Track Record in Newark and Essex County Courts
Our New Jersey hit and run accident lawyers have achieved numerous significant recoveries for victims throughout Newark and Essex County. We've successfully navigated Essex County Superior Court and established professional relationships with local judges and court personnel that benefit our clients.
Four of our attorneys are certified by the New Jersey Supreme Court as Civil Trial Attorneys—a distinction earned by fewer than 3% of lawyers in the state. This certification demonstrates our superior litigation capabilities, particularly valuable when insurance companies refuse fair settlement offers.
If you're located in nearby Clifton or surrounding areas, our hit and run accident lawyers in Clifton, NJ provide the same dedicated representation and proven results throughout Passaic County.
Personalized Attention from Experienced Trial Attorneys
Unlike large firms that treat clients as case numbers, we provide personalized attention to every hit and run victim. You'll work directly with experienced attorneys who understand how the accident has affected your life, allowing us to develop strategies tailored to your unique circumstances.
Our team includes attorneys with more than 130 years of combined legal experience. We maintain regular communication, answer questions promptly, and ensure you understand each step of the legal process.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Newark
Immediate Steps to Take at the Scene
Following the accident, move to a safe location away from Newark's busy traffic if you can. Turn on your hazard lights and set up warning triangles if available, particularly in high-traffic areas. Document everything about the fleeing vehicle: make, model, color, license plate number, and direction of travel.
Receiving Prompt Medical Attention
Seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries that may not present symptoms for hours or days. Additionally, early medical treatment creates essential documentation connecting your injuries to the accident.
Reporting to Authorities and Gathering Evidence
Contact Newark police immediately. Officers are experienced in investigating hit and run accidents and may locate witnesses or evidence you missed. Take photographs of vehicle damage, the accident location, skid marks, and debris. Collect witness contact information, as their testimony can strengthen your case.
Taking Swift Legal Action
Contact our Newark car accident lawyers immediately after receiving medical attention. We're available 24/7 and can meet you at the hospital, your home, or our Clifton office. Notify your insurance company, but be careful about the information you provide—refer detailed questions to your attorney.
Proving Liability in a Hit and Run Case
When the At-Fault Driver Is Identified
When the fleeing driver is identified, we aggressively pursue civil litigation to hold them accountable. We file lawsuits and negotiate maximum settlements that fully compensate you for losses. Our attorneys present compelling evidence of the driver's negligence and their decision to flee, which often strengthens damage awards.
When the Driver Cannot Be Identified
When the driver remains unidentified, we pursue uninsured motorist claims through your insurance policy. These claims can provide substantial compensation for injuries, lost wages, and other damages. We also explore whether other parties may share liability.
How Our Newark Hit and Run Attorneys Investigate Your Case
Immediate Investigation and Evidence Preservation
We understand that evidence is time-sensitive, so we begin investigating immediately upon retention. Our process includes securing surveillance footage from Newark businesses and traffic cameras, conducting thorough accident scene examinations, and documenting physical evidence and debris patterns.
Collaboration with Law Enforcement and Insurance Companies
We maintain professional relationships with Newark police investigators and work cooperatively with criminal investigations while protecting your civil interests. We handle all insurance communications, protecting you from tactics designed to minimize your claim.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Claim
Hit and run car accidents often result in substantial damages that extend beyond immediate medical expenses. Our Newark attorneys work diligently to identify and document all losses, ensuring compensation reflects the full impact on your life. Potential damages include:
- Medical Expenses and Ongoing Treatment Costs: Emergency room treatment, hospitalization, surgical procedures, physical therapy, prescription medications, and future medical needs related to your injuries.
- Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity: Wages lost during recovery and compensation for diminished earning capacity if injuries affect your ability to work or pursue your career.
- Pain and Suffering Damages: Compensation for physical discomfort, emotional distress, anxiety, and psychological impact, including the unique trauma of being abandoned at the accident scene.
- Property Damage Recovery: Vehicle repairs or replacement and compensation for damaged personal items.
- Punitive Damages in Criminal Hit-and-Run Cases: When the fleeing driver faces criminal charges, punitive damages may be available to punish egregious conduct and significantly increase your recovery.
Contact the Experienced Hit and Run Accident Lawyers in Newark, NJ at Corradino & Papa, LLC for a Free Case Evaluation
Don't let a fleeing driver escape accountability. Our dedicated hit and run accident lawyers are ready to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. We offer free, no-obligation consultations without any upfront costs or fees.
You pay nothing unless we successfully recover compensation.
Call Corradino & Papa, LLC today at 973-381-1706 or contact us online to schedule your free case evaluation with experienced Newark hit and run accident lawyers.
