Legal Question in Traffic Law in New York

Hit and Run Question

I accidentally hit a parked car yesterday. The damage to the person's car wasn't severe and I basically just rubbed/scratched the front bumber with no other damage at all. I didn't call the police, but did leave a note with my first name and phone number in case they wanted to file a report or exchange insurance information. It's now 24 hours later and I still haven't heard from the vehicle owner. A friend of mine was keeping an eye out for the owner and noticed that the car left around 3PM yesterday and the ''accident'' happened at around 11:30AM. They never saw any police. In this day and age, I am worried that I could get into trouble for a hit and run and maybe lose my license. Should I call the police now, or just wait a few days and see if the person calls with a repair estimate. The damage was definitely under $50 as I was only going about 5MPH. Are we obligated to call the police if we hit a parked car, or is it ok to leave a note. (I did keep a copy of the note, just in case.) Please help, I'm going to get an ulcer over this. Is it still considered a hit and run if you leave a note, but don't file a report?


Asked on 6/02/03, 2:43 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Andrew Nitzberg Andrew Nitzberg & Associates

Re: Hit and Run Question

Please do not upset yourself further. If you have not heard from the victim at the end of 48 hours, you will probably never hear about this event again. You are welcome to a consultation for no charge at my offices at 41 West 44th St., NY,NY. Please call for an appointment first. 646-591-5786.

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Answered on 6/02/03, 4:38 pm


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