Hit-and-Run Accident: Legal Steps to Take

Being in a hit-and-run accident is scary, and it can leave you feeling overwhelmed and powerless. But there are many steps you can take to get compensation from the other driver and get justice. At Flager Law, we help Philadelphia-area pedestrians, bike riders, drivers, and other injured parties file claims for hit-and-run accidents. Our team is here to help you know what to do after hit-and-run accidents so you stay safe. Learn more about what steps to take to protect your rights and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation.

Highlights

• Speak to an attorney before making statements to your insurance provider or—even more importantly—the other insurance provider.
• While you generally have two years after the hit-and-run incident to file a claim, it’s best to take action immediately. 
• Document everything: what happened during the hit-and-run, any injuries you received, and all communications you have with the hospital, insurance providers, and the at-fault party.

Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident in PA

Knowing what to do in a hit-and-run can keep you safe and set the groundwork for filing a successful claim. Follow these steps immediately after a hit-and-run: 

1. Make sure you’re safe. If you can, pull over to a safe location and turn on your car’s hazard lights.
2. Call the police. Check for injuries, and call 911. Let them know if there are serious injuries and if you might need an ambulance. Report any details you have about the other vehicle.
3. Document as much as possible. Take a video of your injuries, and say everything you remember about the incident. This can help you keep the details straight later and will be valuable insight for your attorney. If it’s safe, step out of the vehicle and take footage of all the damage. If there are witnesses nearby, ask for their contact details and their statements.
4. Contact a lawyer. Staying safe and getting medical treatment is the priority. But as soon as you can, call an attorney. They can act as your representative to your insurance provider and the police. They can also advise you on your rights and start to build your case.

The sooner you act following an accident, the better your chances of identifying the hit-and-run driver and getting compensation.

Is It Worth Filing a Claim for a Hit-and-Run?

For most circumstances, it is worth filing a claim for a hit-and-run, especially if you have injuries or your car is significantly damaged. Filing a police report and hiring an attorney can help hold the driver accountable and get the claim filed under the other driver’s policy rather than your own, ensuring that they have financial responsibility for the accident. Filing a legal claim is the best course of action for finding the driver at fault and giving you an avenue to pursue damages in court. Hit-and-runs are considered a crime, so it’s important to officially document the incident and present evidence.

The Difference Experienced Counsel Can Make

Hiring an attorney who has years of experience protecting the victims of hit-and-run incidents in Pennsylvania can make a big difference in the aftermath of the event. Some of the benefits include: 

• Guidance on navigating the legal process and understanding your rights as a victim
• Representation so you don’t feel overwhelmed speaking to insurance providers or the other driver
• Increasing the potential size of your settlement and getting compensation for medical, property, and emotional damages
• An expert who knows how to obtain and preserve evidence to build a strong criminal and or civil case on your behalf

We Can Help — Schedule a Free Consultation Today

At Flager Law, we help hit-and-run victims protect their rights and fight for compensation. Our legal team is here to help you understand what to do in a hit-and-run and what to do after a hit-and-run, even after time has elapsed. Reach out today to talk about what happens after a hit-and-run accident.

Image credit: // Shutterstock // Bilanol