Dedicated Injury Representation

Hit & Run Accident in New Bedford for collisions where the at-fault driver left the scene

When drivers flee after causing collisions, injured parties face the challenge of recovering compensation without a clear defendant or insurance policy to pursue. Dussault & Gomes PC works to identify missing drivers through investigation of surveillance footage, witness accounts, and vehicle debris left at the scene that may reveal make, model, or paint color. Even when the at-fault driver cannot be located, Massachusetts law requires automobile insurance policies to include uninsured motorist coverage, which provides compensation when the responsible party cannot be identified or located. This coverage allows you to pursue a claim through your own insurance policy while attorneys continue efforts to identify the driver who fled.

The process begins with documenting everything known about the vehicle and driver, collecting surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras, and interviewing witnesses who may have seen the vehicle before or after impact. Attorneys also review physical evidence such as paint transfer on your vehicle, broken parts left at the scene, and damage patterns that indicate vehicle type. When the driver cannot be identified within the timeframe required by your insurance policy, the claim proceeds under your uninsured motorist coverage.



Request a consultation to discuss what evidence is available and how uninsured motorist coverage applies to your situation.

How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Works After Hit and Run Collisions

Uninsured motorist coverage is mandatory in Massachusetts and provides compensation when you are injured by a driver who cannot be identified or who lacks sufficient insurance. Your own insurance company pays the claim, but you must demonstrate that an unidentified driver caused the collision and that you sustained compensable injuries. Attorneys handle communication with your insurer, provide documentation of injuries and losses, and negotiate the claim amount just as they would with a third-party insurance company.



You receive representation throughout the claims process including gathering medical records, documenting lost wages, and presenting evidence that establishes how the collision occurred and why the other driver could not be identified. Your insurance company may conduct its own investigation and may dispute the claim if they believe you were at fault or if they question whether an unidentified driver was actually involved.

Efforts to locate the at-fault driver continue even after your uninsured motorist claim is filed. Attorneys use accident reconstruction analysis, review of nearby surveillance systems, and public appeals for information to identify vehicles matching witness descriptions or damage patterns. When drivers are located after claims are paid, your insurance company may pursue subrogation to recover what they paid on your behalf.

Questions Clients Ask About Hit and Run Claims

Hit and run collisions in New Bedford often occur in parking areas, along residential streets with limited lighting, and at intersections where drivers flee to avoid liability or because they lack valid licenses or insurance.

• What if I didn't get the license plate number? Attorneys can still pursue uninsured motorist claims using witness descriptions, surveillance footage, vehicle debris, and damage patterns to demonstrate that an unidentified driver caused the collision.
• How does my insurance company handle uninsured motorist claims? Your insurer investigates the claim similarly to how they would handle a claim you filed against another driver, including reviewing police reports, medical records, and evidence that an unidentified vehicle caused the crash.
• Will my insurance rates increase if I file an uninsured motorist claim? Massachusetts law generally prohibits insurers from surcharging premiums based on uninsured motorist claims where you were not at fault, though you should confirm your policy terms with your insurer.
• What happens if the driver is found after I file the claim? If the at-fault driver is identified, your attorney may pursue a direct claim against that driver's insurance while your uninsured motorist claim continues, allowing recovery of any amounts that exceed what your own policy paid.
• How long do I have to report a hit and run to my insurance company? Most policies require prompt reporting of collisions, and delays in reporting can jeopardize coverage, making it critical to notify your insurer immediately even if the other driver cannot be identified.

Dussault & Gomes PC guides clients through hit and run claims in New Bedford, working to identify missing drivers and pursuing uninsured motorist coverage when drivers cannot be located. Arrange a case evaluation to review the evidence from your collision.

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