A tragic hit-and-run in Paterson has once again drawn attention to the dangers of reckless driving and the devastating consequences of fleeing the scene of an accident. A man clearing snow off his SUV was struck and killed by a driver who failed to stop and later faced criminal charges. The victim’s spouse was inside the vehicle at the time of impact, witnessing the horrifying event unfold. Authorities launched an immediate investigation, and within hours, law enforcement located and arrested the suspected driver.

Hit-and-run accidents leave families devastated, and New Jersey law treats these offenses seriously. Drivers who flee the scene face criminal penalties, civil liability, and potential wrongful death claims when their actions lead to fatal consequences. For victims and their families, seeking legal guidance can be essential to recovering damages and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.

Hit-and-Run Accidents in New Jersey

Hit-and-run crashes have become an increasing concern across New Jersey. Fleeing the scene of an accident is not only a violation of state law but also an act that jeopardizes the safety of victims who may need immediate medical attention. Under New Jersey Statutes Title 39:4-129, drivers involved in accidents must:

• Stop immediately and remain at the scene; 
• Provide their name, contact information, and insurance details to the other party; and
• Assist any injured individuals by calling emergency services.

Failing to follow these legal requirements carries serious penalties, especially when an accident results in injuries or death.

Criminal Consequences for Leaving the Scene

Under New Jersey law, hit-and-run accidents that result in injuries can lead to fines ranging from $2,500 to $5,000, license suspension, and possible jail time. Charges escalate significantly in cases where the accident leads to a fatality. The driver in the Paterson incident now faces second-degree charges, which could result in a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.

Aside from criminal penalties, hit-and-run drivers can also be held civilly liable for the damages they cause. Surviving family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim, seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Drivers who flee often do so under the false assumption that they can escape responsibility. However, law enforcement agencies across New Jersey have become increasingly aggressive in tracking down hit-and-run suspects. Surveillance footage, eyewitness reports, and forensic vehicle evidence are frequently used to identify and arrest those responsible. Many cases lead to swift arrests, as seen in the Paterson accident. The risks of fleeing far outweigh any perceived benefits, as criminal penalties increase significantly when a driver is caught.

Why Drivers Flee After a Crash

Drivers leave accident scenes for a variety of reasons, many of which stem from panic or fear of legal consequences. Some of the most common factors include:

• Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol;
• Lack of a valid driver’s license or proper insurance;
• Fear of arrest due to outstanding warrants or prior offenses; and
• Reckless or distracted driving leading to panic.

While these reasons may explain why some drivers choose to flee, they do not excuse the harm caused to victims and their families. Leaving the scene of an accident not only worsens legal consequences but also denies victims the immediate medical care they may need to survive.

Seeking Compensation After a Hit-and-Run

Victims of hit-and-run accidents often face serious financial burdens, including medical bills, lost wages, and long-term rehabilitation costs. If a hit-and-run driver is found and charged, victims and their families may pursue civil claims for compensation. However, even when the driver is not immediately identified, legal options are still available.

New Jersey requires drivers to carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can provide financial relief to hit-and-run victims. UM policies allow individuals injured by unidentified or uninsured drivers to recover damages from their own insurance company. However, insurance providers may try to minimize payouts, making it crucial for victims to seek legal guidance before accepting a settlement.

Victims should also be aware of statutes of limitations, which place time limits on filing claims. In New Jersey, a personal injury lawsuit must be filed within two years of the accident. The same deadline applies for wrongful death claims. Delaying legal action can result in losing the opportunity to recover compensation.

The Consequences of Fleeing the Scene of an Accident

The Paterson accident is a reminder of the devastation a reckless hit-and-run driver can cause. For families who have lost loved ones, legal action is often the only path to justice beyond criminal prosecution. Civil claims not only help victims recover financially but also send a clear message that fleeing an accident scene has serious consequences.

New Jersey law is designed to protect accident victims, and those responsible must be held accountable for their actions. Whether through criminal charges or civil litigation, ensuring justice for victims and their families remains a critical part of addressing the rise in hit-and-run accidents statewide.

Get Legal Help After a Hit-and-Run Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey hit-and-run accident, identifying what steps to take next can be a challenge. However, it’s important to understand that victims of reckless drivers may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, even if the responsible driver has not yet been identified. Seeking legal representation can help ensure that insurance companies and negligent parties are held accountable. The attorneys at Petrillo & Goldberg Law are dedicated to fighting for hit-and-run victims and their families. Call 856-486-4343 today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.