A hit-and-run occurs when a driver collides with another vehicle, person, or piece of property and then flees the scene without identifying themselves. In Pennsylvania, particularly in Philadelphia, there are an alarming number of hit-and-run accidents.
Hit-and-run accidents are a nationwide problem in the United States. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, approximately 4.6 of every 10,000 drivers have committed at least one hit-and-run offense in the past, and more than one hit-and-run collision occurs every 60 seconds.
The laws regarding hit-and-run accidents in Pennsylvania can be found in Title 75 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code.
Instead of fleeing the scene of a motor vehicle collision, one should provide identification, insurance information, and assistance to anyone who may have been injured. One should stay at the scene of an accident until law enforcement arrives. In accordance with Pennsylvania law, an individual is required to stop if they are "involved" in a car accident. Pennsylvania is no stranger to hit-and-run accidents, many of them fatal.
What Should You Do If You Are the Victim of a Hit-and-Run?
It is more important to know what not to do after a hit-and-run accident than to know what to do.
If you are involved in a hit-and-run, DO NOT pursue the fleeing driver.
Not only is pursuing a fleeing driver extremely dangerous, but leaving the scene may cause you to miss key witnesses.
Instead, follow the steps below:
Call 9-1-1 Emergency Services
In a "normal" accident, everyone remains at the scene, and the perpetrator typically contacts the police. Call 9-1-1 immediately if you are the victim of a hit-and-run in Pennsylvania. Dialing 9-1-1 is the appropriate first measure for a number of reasons.
- Notifying authorities of an accident that has occurred
- Notifying law enforcement that a hit-and-run crime has occurred.
- Calling 9-1-1 raises the probability that some officers will notice the fleeing vehicle.
- You are less proficient than the police at collecting evidence that can lead to an arrest.
- It will expedite the arrival of medical aid on the scene.
Calling 9-1-1 results in a comprehensive response, including notifying emergency medical personnel, police, and firefighters that a crisis is unfolding.
Document What Happened and Gather Information
Accidents typically leave those involved in distress, making it difficult to recall details. Important details about the accident and the departing party can be completely forgotten if a hit-and-run accident happens.
Write down or record a voice memo on your smartphone detailing what occurred, the appearance of the other vehicle and its occupant, and any other pertinent information. You do not know if a "minor" detail will tip off law enforcement and lead to the capture of the other party. Recording your thoughts can also help you recall details in the future.
Furthermore, documenting every detail will aid your attorney. They can rely on your notes or comments to establish from your perspective what transpired. This can also aid your attorney in developing an investigation strategy and legal strategy for your case.
Locate and Talk to any Witnesses
It is equally important to interview witnesses and obtain their impressions, observations, and opinions as it is to document your own thoughts and observations. A witness may have observed something about the other party that is useful for law enforcement or your case if you decide to sue the other party or their insurance company.
Additionally, witnesses can help establish what occurred. They may have witnessed the other motorist operating his or her vehicle erratically or committing moving violations. In addition, they may have a more detailed description of the other vehicle and driver than you do because they witnessed the collision from a different angle.
A witness can also help establish fault. If your injuries exceed the limits of Pennsylvania’s no-fault auto insurance laws, establishing fault is crucial. In such a scenario, your only recourse may be what a third party observed.
Inform Your Insurance Company
It is likely that your insurance policy mandates that you promptly report any accident. Even if you were at fault or it appears that the other party will never be discovered, it is imperative that you inform your insurance company of the policy terms. You do not want to lose protection for yourself or your vehicle because of a policy violation.
When you contact them about your hit-and-run in Pennsylvania, provide only the requested information. The best course of action until you have more information is to presume that your insurance company will ask you numerous questions to determine whether your claim is legitimate. Never admit that you were at fault or made an error. Allow them to draw their own conclusion if this is the case.
Contact a PA Hit-and-Run Accident Attorney
Contact a PA car accident attorney as soon as possible for a free consultation. They can review your case, communicate with law enforcement, and help you determine the best next actions. Your attorney will provide you with both good and terrible news and assist you in formulating a response to your insurance company if it determines that the accident was your fault.
A second advantage of having an attorney on your side is that if the opposing party is apprehended, your attorney will know how to proceed in a manner that will most likely result in you receiving what you deserve. Your claim against the other party may be lost in the confusion of criminal proceedings, etc. if you represent yourself.
Ultimately, your Pennsylvania car accident attorney can assist you in developing the best possible legal strategy. Possible legal options include suing the other party's insurance provider, the other party personally, or a negligent third party. If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident contact Brandon J. Broderick today. We are here to help you.