A hit and run accident occurs when a driver collides with another vehicle, person, or property, and then leaves the scene without stopping to provide information or assistance. Hit and run accidents can involve cars, motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians, or other objects, and can result in serious injuries or property damage.
What Are The Applicable Law For Hit And Run Accidents In Pennsylvania?
Hit and run accidents occur more often than any of us would like to believe. The perpetrator of a hit and run accident may leave the scene for a variety of reasons. It could be because he/she doesn’t have insurance, is driving under a suspended license, or it could be drug/alcohol related.
A hit and run accident could leave you with injuries and property damage that you did not anticipate after the at-fault driver flees. Most people don’t know that there is a way to protect themselves if ever the victim of a hit and run, but your insurance company won’t be the ones offering you this information. The best way to protect yourself is to buy adequate amounts of Uninsured Motorist coverage on your own auto policy.
Pennsylvania Hit and Run Laws
75 Pa.C.S.A. Section 3742 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code states that anyone involved in an auto collision is required to stop as near to the site of the collision as possible. If stopping is not an option, he or she must return to the site.. To flee the scene of an auto accident constitutes a hit and run accident in Pennsylvania and could result in fines or even jail time for the offender. This would be a hit and run vehicle which flees the scene of an accident as defined in 75 Pa. C.S.A. Section 1702.
Furthermore the driver of any car, truck, or other vehicle involved in a collision must exchange information with the other drivers involved in the wreck. This includes names, addresses, financial responsibility information, registration number, and if requested, driver’s license information.
However, if you are involved in a hit and run accident in Pennsylvania, it is important to seek legal advice from a car accident lawyer who is familiar with the applicable criminal and civil laws. They can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and seek the compensation you deserve.
What Happens When Someone Hits You and Drives Away?
You can purchase protection for yourself to some degree in the event of a hit and run accident in Pennsylvania. When purchasing auto insurance, be sure to purchase as much “uninsured motorist coverage” as you can afford. Uninsured motorist coverage is useful in many accident situations. For one, it protects you if you were involved in an accident with an uninsured driver. It also protects you if you are struck by a drunk driver who is not carrying his or her own coverage. But “uninsured motorist coverage” also acts as a safeguard for you in the event that you are struck by a hit and run driver. In such a situation, your auto insurance carrier will assume the role of the at-fault driver. Compensation for your injuries is based on the extent of your injuries and the amount of coverage you bought. You can be compensated for pain and suffering, the injuries sustained, medical bills and wage loss, as well as other items of loss.
Why It Is Important To Seek Legal Help After A Hit And Run Accident?
Seeking legal help after a hit and run accident is important for several reasons. First, hit and run accidents can be very traumatic, and victims may not know what steps to take to protect their legal rights or seek compensation for their losses. A car accident lawyer can help guide victims through the process, answer their questions, and provide them with the support they need during this difficult time.
Second, hit and run accidents can be challenging to investigate and solve, especially if the driver who caused the accident is not identified. A car accident lawyer can work with law enforcement agencies, private investigators, and other experts to gather evidence, identify witnesses, and build a case against the responsible party.
Third, hit and run accidents can result in significant financial damages, including medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. A car accident lawyer can help victims seek compensation for these losses, either through insurance claims or by filing a lawsuit against the responsible party.
Overall, seeking legal help after a hit and run accident can help victims seek justice, protect their legal rights, and obtain the compensation they deserve.
How A Car Accident Lawyer Can Help Investigate The Hit And Run Accident?
A car accident lawyer can play a crucial role in investigating a hit and run accident. Here are some ways a car accident lawyer can help with the investigation:
Gathering evidence: A car accident lawyer can help gather evidence to support your claims, such as eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage, or photos of the scene. They can also work with accident reconstruction experts to piece together what happened and determine who was at fault.
Identifying the responsible party: If the hit-and-run driver is not immediately identified, a car accident lawyer can work with law enforcement agencies to identify potential suspects and gather evidence that can be used to track down the responsible party. This may involve using forensic evidence, surveillance footage, or other investigative techniques.
Working with insurance companies: A car accident lawyer can communicate with the insurance companies involved, including your own insurance company and the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They can help you file a claim, negotiate with the insurance company, and work to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Filing a lawsuit: If the hit-and-run driver is identified, a car accident lawyer can help you file a lawsuit against them to seek compensation for your injuries and damages. This may involve gathering evidence, drafting legal documents, and representing you in court.
A car accident lawyer can help ensure that a thorough investigation is conducted following a hit and run accident. They can help identify the responsible party, gather evidence to support your claim, communicate with insurance companies, and work to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
