If you were involved in any car accident, you likely feel in a state of panic. However, if the driver of the other car involved in the accident drives off, you may be left feeling even more emotionally overwhelmed. Learn what you should do after a hit and run accident in the state of Pennsylvania.
Your Safety Is A Priority
Before anything else, make sure you are safe. If you need to move the car off of the roadway, then do so if you are able, and if it makes sense in your situation. Stay in a safe spot and attempt to call for help if you are able to do so. Stay in your car and do not move if you feel injured in any way. Even if the other car has left the scene of the accident, do not be tempted to leave. Call the police and wait.
Call 911
Call 911 and explain that you were involved in a hit and run accident. Answer any questions they may have and wait for help to arrive. Answer all of the police officers’ questions as honestly as possible and try to remember as much as possible about the description of the vehicle that left the scene of the accident.
Help From Witnesses
Witnesses are important in any accident, but even more so in accidents involving hit and run drivers. Hopefully, the witnesses to your accident noticed a license plate or the make and model of the vehicle. Make sure to obtain the contact information of all witnesses to your car accident.
Seek Medical Attention
Always seek medical attention after a car accident of any kind. Take the opportunity to be examined by a medical professional if an ambulance arrives, or go to the emergency room immediately. If you do not do either of those things, make sure to be seen by your doctor within less than 48 hours to ensure that you do not have any type of concussion, traumatic brain injury, or an injury that is internal and severe.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Even if you were not at fault for the accident, you will need to contact your insurance company and let them know about your accident. Make sure to never tell an insurance agent that you are “ok” or that you “feel fine.” Simply state the facts. Insurance adjusters oftentimes can be manipulative and ask for all medical records, which they do not have the right to do, or attempt to ask leading questions to make a victim say that they are feeling better.
Repair of Your Vehicle
You may need to have your vehicle repaired. Before you do so, make sure to visit with your insurance company and an experienced attorney. Obtain an estimate for either the replacement cost or full repair of your car. You may be able to use your own repair shop, but you will have to confirm that with your insurance company and your insurance policy.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Attorney
Being in any kind of accident is a traumatic experience, but a hit and run accident causes additional complications. Schedule a free initial consultation with the personal injury attorneys at the O’Donnell Law Offices serving clients in Kingston, Wilkes Barre, Hazleton and Pittston at 570-821-5717 or online today. There is no fee or costs until we win your case.
Resource:
legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=75&div=0&chpt=37&sctn=43&subsctn=0
https://www.odonnell-law.com/2020/04/10/pain-and-suffering-settlement-examples/