Hit and Run in New York: Laws, Penalties, and What to Do (2026)

# Hit and Run in New York: What You Need to Know

> **KEY FACTS:**
> – Hit and run is **criminal** in NY — misdemeanor to Class D felony
> – Your **PIP ($50K)** covers medical expenses even in hit-and-run
> – **UM/UIM** coverage handles the liability portion
> – File **MV-104** within 10 days
> – **90-day** deadline for government vehicle claims

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## New York Hit-and-Run Laws

NY Vehicle & Traffic Law §§ 600-603 requires drivers to stop, provide info, and render aid.

### Criminal Penalties

| Scenario | Classification | Penalty |
|———-|—————|———|
| Property damage only | Traffic infraction | Up to $250 fine + 15 days jail |
| Personal injury | Class A misdemeanor | Up to $1,000 fine + 1 year jail |
| Serious injury (§ 600(2)(b)) | Class E felony | Up to 4 years prison |
| Death (§ 600(2)(c)) | Class D felony | Up to 7 years prison |

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## Hit and Run in NY’s No-Fault System

**Good news for NY hit-and-run victims:** The no-fault system provides automatic coverage:

1. **PIP ($50,000):** Covers your medical bills and lost wages regardless of who hit you — even if the driver is never found
2. **UM coverage (required):** If your injury is “serious,” you can file a UM claim for pain and suffering against the unidentified driver through your own insurer
3. **SUM coverage:** If you have it, provides additional protection

This makes NY one of the better states for hit-and-run victims from an insurance perspective.

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## What to Do

1. Stay at the scene — do not chase
2. Call 911 immediately
3. Note the vehicle: plate, make, model, color, direction
4. Get witness information
5. Document the scene
6. File **MV-104** within 10 days
7. File **PIP claim** with your own insurer
8. Seek medical attention

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## Filing Claims

| Coverage | What It Covers | Filed With |
|———-|—————|———–|
| PIP | Medical + lost wages (up to $50K) | Your insurer |
| UM | Pain/suffering if “serious injury” | Your insurer |
| Collision | Vehicle damage | Your insurer |
| SUM | Additional uninsured coverage | Your insurer |

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## Frequently Asked Questions

### Does PIP cover hit-and-run injuries?
Yes. PIP pays regardless of fault and regardless of whether the other driver is identified. Up to $50,000.

### Can I sue for pain and suffering?
If your injury meets the serious injury threshold, you can file a **UM claim** through your own insurer against the unidentified driver.

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## Related Guides

– [What to Do After a Car Accident in New York](/new-york/car-accident-guide/)
– [New York Car Accident Laws](/new-york/car-accident-laws/)

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**DISCLAIMER:** This website is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. This page provides general educational information only. Always consult a licensed attorney in your state for advice specific to your situation. This is not medical advice. If you have been injured, seek immediate medical attention. Last updated: March 2026.