A hit-and-run accident can be a confusing and frightening experience. In the blink of an eye, you may find yourself involved in an accident with another vehicle, only for the driver to flee the scene. Not only does this add to the stress of the situation, but it can also make pursuing compensation for injuries or damages more complicated.

If you find yourself in a hit-and-run situation in Pennsylvania, there are critical steps you need to take immediately. While the process may feel overwhelming, knowing what to do next can help protect your rights and increase your chances of receiving compensation. Here’s a breakdown of what to do if you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident in Pennsylvania.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

The first thing to remember after any car accident is to stay calm. In the case of a hit-and-run, this can be especially difficult, as you may feel anger or frustration about the other driver’s actions. However, staying composed will help you focus on what needs to be done.

Start by assessing your condition. If you are injured, even slightly, seek medical attention right away. Call 911 and report the incident to emergency responders. If you can, check on any passengers in your vehicle to ensure they are not injured.

If possible, check your surroundings for any other people who might have witnessed the accident. They may be able to help you gather important details about the other vehicle involved in the crash.

Call the Police and File a Report

In Pennsylvania, the law requires you to report any car accident that involves property damage, injury, or death. A hit-and-run accident definitely qualifies, so it’s crucial to call the police right away. Even if you are unsure whether the other driver is at fault, reporting the accident ensures that the proper authorities are aware of the situation and can begin investigating.

When the police arrive, provide them with all the details you can remember about the incident. This includes the time, location, and any specific details about the fleeing vehicle, such as its color, make, model, and license plate number if possible. Even partial information, such as a description of the driver or vehicle, can be helpful to law enforcement.

Filing an official police report is essential for documenting the accident, which you may need later for insurance claims or legal purposes.

Document the Scene and Gather Evidence

After you’ve called the police, take the time to document the scene of the accident. Even if the other driver has fled, evidence from the scene can help establish the details of the incident. Use your smartphone to take pictures or videos of the damage to your vehicle, the location of the accident, and any visible road signs or signals that might have contributed to the crash. Photographs of tire marks, debris, or vehicle parts scattered at the scene can also be crucial.

If there are any nearby businesses with security cameras, ask if they have footage of the incident. Video evidence can help identify the hit-and-run driver or provide additional context about how the accident occurred.

Additionally, if there were any witnesses to the crash, ask for their contact information. Eyewitness testimony can be incredibly valuable in a hit-and-run case. If they saw the other driver’s license plate or any other useful details, their statements may assist law enforcement in tracking down the responsible party.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Even if the other driver fled the scene, your insurance company still needs to be informed. It’s crucial to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. In Pennsylvania, if you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, your insurance may help cover the costs of your injuries and vehicle damage if the at-fault driver is never found.

When you notify your insurer, be prepared to provide all the details of the accident and any evidence you’ve gathered. If you are unsure about the specifics of your insurance policy, it’s a good idea to review your coverage before speaking with your insurance company. This can help you understand your options for receiving compensation for your injuries and damages.

Cooperate with Law Enforcement

As the investigation into the hit-and-run continues, cooperate fully with the police. If they request further information or need you to provide a statement, be sure to follow through. While law enforcement works to locate the other driver, your input may help piece together the events that led to the accident.

In some cases, police may ask if you recognize the other driver or if you can recall any specific details about the vehicle that might help them with their investigation. The more information you provide, the better chance the authorities have of identifying the hit-and-run driver.

Seek Medical Attention and Keep Records

Even if you don’t feel injured immediately after the accident, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, particularly those related to whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time. Getting checked out by a doctor ensures that your injuries are documented and treated promptly.

Additionally, keep a detailed record of all medical visits, diagnoses, treatments, and medications. This documentation will play a critical role in your claim, particularly if you need to pursue legal action or file a lawsuit for damages. If you miss work due to your injuries, keep track of the days lost and any other financial losses you’ve experienced.

Understand Pennsylvania’s Insurance Laws

Pennsylvania is a no-fault state, meaning that your own insurance company generally covers your medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who caused the accident. However, this can be more complicated in a hit-and-run case where the at-fault driver is unknown.

If the at-fault driver is located and insured, their insurance will cover your damages. But if the driver is never found, your uninsured motorist coverage will kick in. This is why having the right coverage is crucial. Without UM coverage, you may face significant out-of-pocket expenses, which is why it’s important to review your policy.

Conclusion

Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident in Pennsylvania can be complex. If you’ve suffered injuries or significant property damage, consulting with a personal injury attorney is often a wise decision. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights, ensure you are receiving the compensation you deserve, and guide you through the insurance claims process.

At Kingbird Legal, we have the expertise to help you recover damages after a hit-and-run accident. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and ensuring you are treated fairly by both insurance companies and law enforcement. If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident, don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation. We’re here to help you get the compensation you deserve.