Rochester, NY (March 25, 2026) – A two-car crash at the corner of Upper Falls Boulevard and St. Paul Street in Rochester left one driver injured and another fleeing on foot late Wednesday night, March 25, 2026.
Rochester firefighters arrived at the scene around 10:20 p.m. to find a Honda on its side with a 35-year-old man trapped inside. Firefighters worked to free the driver, who was then transported by ambulance to a local hospital. He was treated for non-life-threatening injuries to his upper body.
The other vehicle involved was a Chevy Suburban. According to the Rochester Police Department, the driver of the Suburban, who had an outstanding warrant, attempted to flee the scene on foot after the crash. Officers pursued and caught the driver, who was then issued a traffic ticket.
The cause of the crash has not been officially confirmed, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Liability and Hit-and-Run Accidents Under New York Law
In New York, leaving the scene of an accident involving physical injury is a serious violation under Vehicle and Traffic Law (VTL) § 600. When accidents involve suspected negligence or a driver attempting to flee, navigating the resulting insurance claims can be complex. Victims of auto collisions in the state first access compensation through their own No-Fault Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits. This required coverage pays for up to $50,000 in medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the collision.
However, if a victim sustains serious injuries that meet the state’s statutory threshold under New York Insurance Law § 5102(d), they may pursue a bodily injury claim directly against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy. Furthermore, New York follows a Pure Comparative Negligence rule, meaning an injured party can recover damages even if they share some of the blame, though their total compensation is reduced by their assigned percentage of fault. Because cases involving fleeing drivers require prompt evidence collection—such as securing police reports, analyzing vehicle damage, and retrieving nearby surveillance footage—acting quickly is essential. An experienced Rochester car accident attorney can help injured parties navigate the legal process, identify all available insurance coverages, and ensure their rights are protected.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash in Monroe County, or if you have questions about your rights following a serious accident in upstate New York, contact Stanley Law Offices at 888-997-3889 for a free, private consultation. We are here to help.
