How to Handle Hit-and-Run Car Accidents in Philadelphia

Handling Hit-and-Run Car Accidents in Philadelphia Being involved in a car accident is already stressful enough, but it becomes more complicated when the at-fault driver flees the scene. Unfortunately, hit-and-run car accidents occur fairly often, leaving victims unsure of their next steps. If you are a victim of such an incident, knowing the right steps to take can help you protect your rights and seek compensation. Consulting a Philadelphia car accident lawyer can be crucial in navigating the legal complexities that follow a hit-and-run, ensuring you receive the justice and support you deserve.

Understanding Hit-and-Run Accidents

It is defined as a hit-and-run accident when the driver involved in the collision leaves the scene without providing their contact information or assisting injured parties. All drivers by Pennsylvania law are supposed to stop at the scene of an accident, no matter how minor the accident may be, to exchange information and check for injuries.

Hit-and-run accidents in Philadelphia are even more disturbing with the tremendous volume of cars and an alarming density of traffic in the city. Victims of such accidents seldom get to know the responsible driver and face much difficulty while recovering the damages from him.

Step Taken Right Away After a Hit-and-Run

1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention

If one has been involved in any form of accident, the first priority after it has occurred would be safety. Move to a shoulder of the road if this is possible and inspect oneself and others for personal injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 instantly to request medical assistance.

2. Contact Law Enforcement

Report the hit-and-run to the police immediately. In this case, getting the police report is a pre-requisite since it may help one determine the damage when filing for insurance or suing someone in court. Offer as much details as possible to the officers regarding the vehicle that ran away:

Make and model.
License plate number. Use whatever you manage to get, no matter how small.
Color and other distinguishing characteristics (like dents or stickers).

3. Collect Evidence

Collect as much evidence at the accident scene as possible. Take photos and videos with your smartphone of:

• Damage to your vehicle.
• Tire marks or debris on the road.
• Traffic signals or street signs nearby.

Finally, take contact details and statements from any eyewitnesses, whose testimonies may be useful in tracking the owner or to support your narration of what actually happened.

Submission of an Insurance Claim

Auto policies in Pennsylvania are based on a “no-fault” system. Your own insurance pays for medical expenses and lost wages, no matter which driver was at fault. However, when there is a hit-and-run, there are other steps to follow.

1. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage

If the other party is unidentified, you have to depend on your UM cover. This kind of insurance compensates you for medical bills, property damages, and other losses due to an uninsured or undesignated driver.

2. Collision Coverage

For vehicle repairs, collision coverage under your insurance policy can help cover the costs, even if the other driver cannot be located. Keep in mind that using this coverage may require paying a deductible.

3. Notify Your Insurer Promptly

Inform your insurance company about the hit-and-run as soon as possible. Provide them with the police report and any evidence you’ve collected to support your claim.

The Legal Perspective on Hit-and-Run Accidents

In Pennsylvania, fleeing the scene of an accident is considered a serious offense. Hit-and-run motorists can receive severe penalties, among which are:

• Fines: Up to $10,000 in cases where injury or death resulted.
• License Suspension: A minimum six months suspension of license
• Jail time: Punishments range between 90 days on one extreme for property damage cases and many years on the other extreme for accidents with injury or death.

For victims, seeking justice can be overwhelming, especially when the driver is not readily identified. This is where a Philadelphia car accident lawyer can make all the difference.

How a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer Can Assist

A proficient car accident attorney will be able to help you through the following steps following a hit-and-run accident:

1. Conducting Investigation

Usually, lawyers interact with an investigator to collect evidence, say, by analyzing traffic camera footage, collecting debris, and interviewing several witnesses. They may also coordinate with local law enforcement agencies to trace the fleeing driver.

2. Handling Insurance Claims

Managing the insurance claim can be complicated in case of a hit-and-run accident. A lawyer can make sure that your claim is processed in a valid manner and negotiate with your insurance company to get the maximum compensation.

3. Taking Legal Action

If the hit-and-run driver is identified, your lawyer can help you file a personal injury lawsuit to collect damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

Challenges in Hit-and-Run Cases

Hit-and-run cases often pose unique challenges, including:

1. Identification of the Driver

In many instances, the fleeing driver is never identified. This can make it difficult to hold them accountable for their actions.

2. Insurance Disputes

Insurance companies may try to deny or minimize claims, especially if there’s insufficient evidence linking the accident to the fleeing driver.

3. Emotional Stress

The aftermath of a hit-and-run can be emotionally taxing. Victims may feel anger, frustration, or anxiety, which can impact their ability to focus on recovery.

A dedicated car accident lawyer in Philadelphia can address these challenges, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Preventing Hit-and-Run Incidents

While you can’t control the actions of other drivers, there are some things you can do to protect yourself and limit the effects of a hit-and-run accident:

• Install a Dash Cam: A dash cam can record extremely helpful evidence, should an accident occur.
• Park in Safe Locations: Where possible, park in brightly lit, highly trafficked locations to discourage potential hit-and-run drivers.
• Be Alert: Keep your eyes open for what is happening around you, especially when driving in high-traffic areas or at night.

Hit-and-Run Victim Support

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Philadelphia, several resources can assist you:

• Philadelphia Police Department: File a report and inquire about updates on your case.
• Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT): Check traffic camera footage if the accident occurred near a monitored intersection.
• Legal Aid Services: Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal advice for accident victims.

Trust Alva Foster & Moscow, LLC: A Leading Philadelphia Law Firm

If you’re navigating the complexities of a hit-and-run accident, partnering with a trusted legal team can make all the difference. Alva Foster & Moscow, LLC, a premier Philadelphia law firm, specializes in providing personalized, results-driven legal representation for car accident victims. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of Pennsylvania law, their attorneys are committed to helping clients secure the justice and compensation they deserve. If you require representation in negotiating with insurance companies or taking legal action against a reckless driver, look no further than Alva Foster & Moscow, LLC for the support you need. To find out more, visit Alva Foster & Moscow, LLC.

Conclusion

Undeniably a stressful situation, having a hit-and-run case will significantly have less impact if one knows how to handle it properly. Start by getting your safety first in line, contacting the police, and gathering evidence. Following these steps, work closely with your insurance company to file a claim as needed, perhaps reaching out to a Philadelphia car accident lawyer for professional guidance.

Getting the right support and resources is always advisable when dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run, seeking justice, and trying to get back on your feet. Do whatever it takes-be it legal advice or emotional support-by seeking out the possible avenues that would help you to move forward from this incredible experience.