In the State of Pennsylvania and nationwide, motorists are required to stop after a car accident. When a driver causes a car accident and flees the scene, it’s known as a hit-and-run accident, and they are more common than you may realize. If you or someone you care about was injured in a hit-and-run accident, an experienced Butler hit-and-run accident lawyer at Conlon Tarker is standing by to help.
Driver Requirements
In Pennsylvania, all drivers are required to stop at the scenes of accidents they are involved in – regardless of the severity of the crash. This obligation extends to assessing the situation by checking for injuries, calling 911, and rendering reasonable assistance as applicable. Finally, the involved motorists are required to exchange basic contact information, vehicle registration, and car insurance details.
Sometimes, Drivers Who Run Are Identified
It’s important to note that just because a driver hits and runs does not mean they will never be located. Widespread surveillance in all the following forms improves the chances significantly:
- Virtually every bystander has a smartphone on hand.
- Many motorists now have dashcams that capture vital information.
- It’s not unusual for security cameras to record critical information.
What to Do if the Other Driver Flees the Scene
If the driver who caused you to be injured doesn’t stop and take the actions they are required to by law, there are important steps you should take in response, including:
- Seek the immediate medical attention you need and carefully follow your medical provider’s advice and instructions
- Retain a knowledgeable hit-and-run accident attorney as quickly as you can
- Allow your focused legal representative to speak to the insurance company on your behalf
Hit and run accident claims are notoriously challenging, and you shouldn’t proceed without the professional legal guidance you need.
Your Insurance Coverage
If another driver leaves you seriously injured in a car accident but flees the scene and can’t be found, you’ll look to your own insurance to cover your losses. This includes personal injury protection (PIP), which covers medical expenses and lost income regardless of fault.
In addition, however, there is uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM) coverage. This form of insurance stands in place of the missing driver’s liability policy, and it is more comprehensive in scope than PIP. While UM coverage is not required in Pennsylvania, it must be included in liability policies, and the only way to reject it is to do so in writing.
Discuss Your Best Options with an Experienced Butler, PA, Hit and Run Accident Attorney Today
The esteemed Butler hit and run accident lawyers at Conlon Tarker are well acquainted with the legal intricacies of hit and run claims, and we will take all the actions necessary to help obtain the compensation to which you’re entitled. Learn more by contacting us online or by calling 724-285-7700.
