A fatal hit-and-run crash in Newark has once again highlighted the dangers pedestrians face on New Jersey roadways and the complex legal issues that arise when an at-fault driver flees the scene. While law enforcement works to identify the vehicle involved, injured victims and surviving family members are often left wondering how they will pay for medical treatment, recover lost income, and pursue justice.
According to Patch Newark, one pedestrian was killed and another suffered critical injuries after both were struck by a vehicle on Empire Street in Newark during the early morning hours of June 26, 2026. Authorities reported that the driver fled the scene and that the investigation remains ongoing as detectives continue searching for the vehicle involved.
📞 If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, pedestrian accident, truck accident, bicycle accident, motorcycle accident, rideshare accident, or workplace accident, contact Khorozian Law Group today for a free consultation. We proudly represent injury victims throughout Bergen County, Essex County, Hudson County, Passaic County, Union County, and across New Jersey. Hablamos Español. Call (201) 944-9200 or contact us online.
Although every pedestrian accident is different, New Jersey law provides important protections that may allow injured victims to pursue compensation even when the at-fault driver is not immediately identified. Depending on the circumstances, victims may have access toPersonal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits, Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage, or other legal avenues for recovering damages. An experiencedNew Jersey pedestrian accident lawyer can help investigate the collision, preserve critical evidence, and identify all available sources of compensation.
Why Hit-and-Run Accidents Are Different
Unlike many motor vehicle collisions, hit-and-run crashes frequently involve additional legal and insurance issues. The driver's decision to leave the scene can make it more difficult to identify witnesses, preserve evidence, and determine insurance coverage.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, acting quickly can make a significant difference. Surveillance video, nearby business security cameras, dash cameras, and eyewitness statements can become critical pieces of evidence during an investigation.
New Jersey Car Accident Lawyer
Who Pays Medical Bills After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
One of the most common questions injury victims ask is:
"If the driver disappears, who pays my medical bills?"
In New Jersey, the answer often begins with Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. PIP coverage generally pays for medical treatment regardless of who caused the accident.
Depending on the circumstances, victims may also have access to:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage
- Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage
- Claims through other applicable insurance policies
- Additional compensation if the responsible driver is later identified
Determining which coverage applies requires a careful review of the facts and the available insurance policies.
Contact an experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
Pedestrian Accidents Often Result in Catastrophic Injuries
Pedestrians have little protection when struck by a moving vehicle. Even collisions occurring at moderate speeds can result in life-changing injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Neck and back injuries
- Multiple fractures
- Internal organ injuries
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death
These injuries frequently require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
Evidence Can Disappear Quickly
One of the biggest mistakes accident victims make is waiting too long before seeking legal guidance.
Critical evidence may include:
- Surveillance footage
- Traffic camera recordings
- Dash camera video
- Cell phone records
- Vehicle debris
- Witness statements
- Police investigation findings
Some video systems automatically overwrite footage within days, making prompt action especially important.
What Compensation May Be Available?
Depending on the circumstances, injured victims or surviving family members may be entitled to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical care
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death damages
- Funeral and burial expenses, when applicable
Each case is unique, and the available compensation depends on the facts surrounding the collision.
What Should You Do After a New Jersey Hit-and-Run?
If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident:
- Call 911 immediately.
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
- Photograph the scene if it is safe to do so.
- Obtain contact information from any witnesses.
- Notify your insurance company promptly.
- Speak with an experienced New Jersey personal injury lawyer before accepting a settlement or providing a recorded statement.
Taking these steps can help preserve valuable evidence and protect your legal rights.
Serving Injury Victims Throughout New Jersey
At Khorozian Law Group, we represent individuals and families injured in serious motor vehicle accidents throughout New Jersey, includingBergen County, Essex County, Hudson County, Passaic County, Union County, and surrounding communities.
Whether your injuries resulted from a pedestrian accident, car accident, truck accident, motorcycle crash, bicycle collision, rideshare accident, or another act of negligence, our team is committed to helping clients understand their legal options and pursue the compensation they deserve.
Contact Khorozian Law Group
📞 If you or a loved one has been injured in a New Jersey car accident, pedestrian accident, truck accident, bicycle accident, rideshare accident, or workplace accident, contact Khorozian Law Group today for a free consultation. We proudly represent injury victims throughout Bergen County and across New Jersey. Hablamos Español. Call (201) 944-9200 or contact us through our online contact form.
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