Legal Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Pennsylvania

When one car hits another car and then flees, this is a hit-and-run accident. Car accidents can be incredibly shocking and unnerving events for anyone to experience. When a hit-and-run accident in Pennsylvania happens, knowing what to do is critical. 

If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident or any other traffic accident then having experienced legal counsel on your side helping you work through things to obtain financial compensation can be advantageous. Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP is a Pennsylvania car accident injury law firm that can discuss what options you have to obtain compensation after such a traumatic event as a hit-and-run. 

How to Protect Yourself After a Hit-And-Run in Pennsylvania

It is against the law to leave an accident scene in Pennsylvania. Despite this, out of the more than 100,000 reportable Pennsylvania car accidents, some are hit-and-run incidents. 

Pennsylvania car accident laws mandate that everyone involved in an accident where injuries or death occur stay at the accident scene until first responders arrive. Fines, prison time, loss of license, higher insurance rates, and more can result in a person being found, charged, and convicted of a hit-and-run. Still, not every driver who commits a hit-and-run crime is found and charged and held financially accountable for their victim's damages. 

If you are hit by another vehicle that then drives away, you have to look after your own safety and interests. So, the first thing to do is ensure you are in a safe place. If you are on a busy road, and if you can, drive to a secure location so that you are not at risk of further harm. Then, once you are parked, should you have the ability, you check on everyone else involved in the accident to identify injuries and damaged property. After this, you should call 9-1-1 for assistance.

Gather evidence. Take photos of your vehicle at the accident scene and if taking a video can also add more detail do this as well. If there were any witnesses, you can exchange contact information with them.

Seek medical treatment. Even if you are unsure if you are injured it is best to see a doctor and be formally examined. Some injuries do not present themselves right away and with the adrenaline going after a crash, you may not feel any symptoms until you have had time to calm down and relax.

First responders who come to the accident scene may write an accident report about what they witnessed. However, you may also file a report. You should also notify your insurance company that the accident happened.

Speak to an attorney. Since Pennsylvania uses a hybrid model of insurance, allowing drivers to choose either no-fault or at-fault insurance coverage, the type of coverage you have will be used to determine the right approach to recovering compensation. In reviewing your insurance policy, you may also have elective coverage in addition to your primary policy. Depending on your insurance coverage, you may have more than one claim to file for compensation.

Speak with an Attorney at Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP

For assistance after a hit-and-run accident in Pennsylvania, please call Edelstein Martin & Nelson, LLP at (215) 731-9900 and you can schedule a free consultation with a lawyer to learn more about filing a claim.