Pennsylvania Hit & Run Accident Lawyer

What to Do if Hit By a Driver Who Leaves the Scene

When you are hit by a driver who does not stop to exchange information about the accident, you’ve been involved in a “hit and run.” Drivers may leave the scene of a crash for a number of reasons. They may not have auto insurance or a driver’s license, or they may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the accident. They may even flee because they have an outstanding warrant for their arrest. Regardless, there is never an excusable reason to leave the scene of an accident, and those who do have committed a criminal act. In Pennsylvania, law enforcement authorities take hit and run accidents very seriously, and so do we. At Metzger Wickersham, our firm has been trusted for more than 135 years and boasts a large support staff. This enables us to thoroughly comb through the details of our clients’ cases and make efficient, effective decisions that will give our clients the best chance at a satisfactory outcome. Let us begin a free case evaluation with you. Call (888) 707-7704 today to get started with our hit & run accident attorney in Pennsylvania!

What to Do After a Hit & Run Accident

Being in a car accident can be extremely stressful on its own without the added complication of a driver that doesn’t stop to take responsibility. Although it can sometimes be difficult to track down the at-fault party in a hit and run, there are certain steps you can take to increase the chances of finding the person who hit you. It is important to be prepared in case this happens to you. Take these steps after a hit and run accident:

• Call 911. Get the police to the scene of the accident so that they can fill out a report. Request an ambulance if you or your passengers need medical attention.
• Don’t try to follow the driver. The person behind the wheel may be dangerous and should not be confronted without authorities present.
• Gather evidence. Write down any information you can remember about the vehicle and driver responsible for your accident, including the vehicle’s make, model, and color, and anything you can remember about the license plate. If there are witnesses nearby, be sure to take their names and contact information as well.
• Speak to witnesses and obtain their names and contact information.
• Photograph your car and the scene of the accident. It is also helpful if you are able to take a photo of the other vehicle’s license plate before the driver leaves.
• See a doctor. Even if you don’t immediately feel hurt, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Plus, it will be helpful to establish a paper trail documenting your injury.
• Contact an attorney. Never sign anything or accept a settlement agreement without first consulting an attorney – you could be offered much less than you are owed!

The better you document all information at the scene of the accident, the better chance you have of finding the driver. Our firm can offer you a free case evaluation to get started in your pursuit of justice!

What is the Statute of Limitations for Hit & Run Accident Claim in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, there is a specific window of time during which you must file a claim for a hit and run accident. This is known as the statute of limitations. For personal injury claims, which includes those stemming from hit and run accidents, Pennsylvania law generally provides a two-year period from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. If you fail to file a claim within this two-year period, you could lose your right to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.However, hit and run cases can involve unique complications. In circumstances where the at-fault driver cannot be identified, it is crucial to take action promptly. Insurance claims for compensation under your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which often applies in hit and run cases, may have additional requirements. This is why it’s important to act quickly, gather evidence, and speak with an experienced Pennsylvania hit and run accident lawyer to ensure that your lawsuit is filed within the suitable time limits.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Hit & Run Accident Claim?

Possible damages may include:

• Medical Expenses: These may include immediate costs such as emergency room visits, surgeries, and hospital stays, as well as long-term medical treatment like physical therapy, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries stop you from working, you could be qualified to compensation for your lost income during your recovery period. In cases of severe injuries, you may also be eligible for compensation for lost earning capability if you are unable to return to your previous line of work.
• Pain and Suffering: Hit and run accidents often cause more than just physical injuries. You may experience emotional distress, anxiety, and mental anguish as a result of the accident. Pennsylvania law allows victims to seek compensation for these non-economic damages.
• Property Damage: If your vehicle or other personal property has been damaged in the hit and run accident, you may be able to recover compensation to repair or replace your property.
• Punitive Damages: In some instances, punitive damages could be granted in a hit and run accident claim. Punitive damages are meant to punish especially reckless or malicious demeanor and serve as a deterrent to prevent future wrongdoing.
• Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: In the event that the hit and run driver cannot be located, victims may still be able to recover compensation through their own insurance policies. Most Pennsylvania drivers carry uninsured motorist coverage, which is designed to protect them in situations like hit and run accidents, where the at-fault driver is unknown or lacks sufficient insurance.

Understanding the Legal Consequences of Hit & Run Accidents

Being involved in a hit and run accident can be a traumatic experience, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens. In addition to the immediate impact, there are also legal consequences that the responsible party may face. In the state of Pennsylvania, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense. It is considered a criminal act, and the penalties can be severe. If caught, the driver may face fines, license suspension, probation, and even imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of the accident. It is important to understand your rights and legal options if you have been a victim of a hit and run accident. By consulting with an experienced Pennsylvania hit and run accident lawyer, you can navigate through the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve. At Metzger Wickersham, our team of skilled attorneys has extensive knowledge and experience in handling hit and run accident cases. We can help you gather evidence, identify the responsible party, and pursue a claim for damages. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the justice and compensation you are entitled to.

Contact Our Pennsylvania Hit & Run Accident Attorney Today

Metzger Wickersham is ready to offer you a free case review to discuss your rights and legal options. If the driver who hit you is identified, we can fight for compensation from their insurance company or by filing a personal injury lawsuit against the driver. If they are not identified, it may still be possible to file a claim with your own insurance company through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. When you consult an attorney at our firm, we would be happy to answer any questions you may have and discuss which avenues are available to help make you whole again. Contact our Pennsylvania hit & run accident lawyer today to request your free case review: (888) 707-7704.