Hit and Run Accident Lawyer in Union County, NJ
A hit and run accident in Union County is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1.1, carrying potential criminal charges and severe civil liability for leaving the scene. If you are the victim, you need a lawyer to pursue compensation from your own insurance. If you are accused, you need a defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Union Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey Hit and Run Law
New Jersey law strictly penalizes drivers who leave the scene of an accident. The severity of the charge depends on the outcome of the crash. Under N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1.1, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in serious bodily injury or death is a crime of the third degree, punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison. Leaving the scene of an accident involving property damage or non-serious injury is a disorderly persons offense. A conviction also carries an automatic driver’s license suspension. For victims, a hit and run creates a complex claim, often requiring action against your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage.
External Legal Resources
- N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1.1 (official New Jersey statute)
- Superior Court of New Jersey, Union Vicinage website
Handling a Hit and Run Case in Union County
Whether you are seeking compensation or defending against a hit and run accident charge, the process in Union County is specific. The Union Vicinage Superior Court handles all indictable (felony) hit and run cases, while municipal courts may handle disorderly persons offenses. For victims, immediate steps to document the scene and report to police are critical for both a criminal investigation and a subsequent UM claim.
- Report the accident immediately to local police in the municipality where it occurred (e.g., Elizabeth, Union Township, Westfield).
- Seek medical attention for any injuries and keep detailed records of all treatments and expenses.
- Contact your insurance company to initiate an uninsured motorist claim if the at-fault driver is unknown.
- If you are the accused driver, consult with a lawyer before making any statement to police or insurance investigators.
- Your lawyer will gather evidence, which may include surveillance footage, witness statements, and vehicle damage reports.
- For criminal charges, your lawyer will represent you at arraignment and pre-trial conferences in Union County Superior Court.
Potential Penalties for a Hit and Run in New Jersey
In Union County, a hit and run accident charge can range from a disorderly persons offense to a third-degree crime, with penalties from fines to years in state prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leaving scene with property damage | Disorderly Persons | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Mandatory suspension | Points on driving record |
| Leaving scene with bodily injury | Disorderly Persons / 4th Degree Crime* | Up to 18 months | Up to $10,000 | Mandatory suspension (1+ years) | Criminal record, increased insurance |
| Leaving scene with serious bodily injury/death | 3rd Degree Crime | 3-5 years | Up to $15,000 | Mandatory suspension | State prison, felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Hit and Run Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the dual nature of hit and run cases—handling both the criminal justice system in Union County Superior Court and the complex insurance claims process for victims.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific locality results are not available, our firm-wide commitment is to achieving the best possible outcome in every case. For hit and run defense, this can mean negotiating to reduce a felony charge to a traffic offense. For victims, it means maximizing recovery through uninsured motorist claims and holding responsible parties accountable.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Near Union County, NJ
Our New Jersey location represents clients throughout Union County, including Elizabeth, Union Township, Plainfield, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Cranford, Summit, Linden, Rahway, Clark, Roselle, and Springfield. We are accessible via the NJ Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, Route 22, and I-78.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
44 Apple St, 1st Floor
Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only.
Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Union County FAQ
What should I do if I’m the victim of a hit and run in Union County?
Call 911 immediately. Try to note the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate. Get contact info from any witnesses. Seek medical attention and report the incident to your insurance company to start an uninsured motorist claim.
Can I be charged with a hit and run if I didn’t cause the accident?
It depends. New Jersey law requires any driver involved in an accident to stop, provide information, and render aid. Leaving the scene, regardless of fault, can lead to a leaving the scene of an accident lawyer Union County being necessary to defend against criminal charges.
What if the hit and run driver is never found?
You can file a claim with your own auto insurance policy under the uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. A hit and run accident lawyer Union County can help you handle this process to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage.
What are the penalties for a hit and run accident charge in NJ?
Penalties escalate with injury. For property damage, it’s a disorderly persons offense (up to 6 months jail). For serious injury or death, it’s a 3rd-degree crime (3-5 years prison). All convictions carry mandatory license suspension.
Should I talk to the insurance adjuster after a hit and run?
No. Consult with a lawyer first. Statements you make can be used against you, especially if there is a question about the severity of injuries or the circumstances of the accident.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.