A deadly hit-and-run on William Floyd Parkway is a reminder that the at-fault driver may be uninsured, underinsured, or never found. Learn how New York UM/SUM coverage works and the simple steps Long Island drivers can take to make sure they’re protected. A recent Patch article described a hit-and-run crash on William Floyd Parkway in Shirley where two men were changing a flat tire on the shoulder when they were struck around 6:45 p.m. One man died at the scene, and the other was taken to Stony Brook University Hospital with serious injuries. Police believe the vehicle involved may be a black Honda with front and passenger-side damage. As Long Island car accident lawyers, we see a painful reality far too often: even when the injuries are life-changing, the at-fault driver may have no insurance, not enough insurance, or may flee and never be identified. That’s exactly why your own UM/SUM coverage matters.
New York Construction Accident and Personal Injury Blog
Understanding Deceptive Practices of Insurance Companies: A Guide for Personal Injury Victims
Insurance companies often use deceptive practices to minimize payouts in personal injury claims. Common tactics include delaying claims processing, offering lowball settlements, disputing liability, requiring unnecessary documentation, misrepresenting policy language, and denying claims without just cause. Major insurers like GEICO, State Farm, Liberty Mutual, and Progressive have been known to employ these strategies. To protect yourself, hire a personal injury lawyer, document everything, understand your policy, don't accept the first offer, and be persistent. These steps can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.