Undoubtedly, accidents involving motor vehicles are unpleasant experiences. Whether it’s a minor scrape or major collision, there is simply nothing positive that comes with or from the experience. Even more unsettling, if not downright infuriating, are hit-and-run accidents. These accidents typically involve one driver colliding with another and then leaving the scene without stopping and exchanging relevant personal information. It may also involve a driver providing information that later turns out to be false.
As with any sudden, unexpected serious event in life, the key to handling this situation is to not panic and let your emotions dictate your response. You will need to collect as much information as possible in a very short period of time. The most important detail to collect is the offending motor vehicle’s license plate number. Second, the color, make, and model of the vehicle are useful in later identifying the perpetrator.
Of course, almost everyone has a cell phone camera that may capture all of the aforementioned information in one photograph. It’s essential that you exercise care when attempting to take a photo since you will be contemporaneously trying to move your vehicle to a place of safety as you try to snap a quick and accurate photo.
Of course, the above course of action is only appropriate assuming that none of your passengers or you have suffered any type of injury in the hit-and-run accident. If anyone is injured, immediately pull your motor vehicle over to the side of the road and call 911. In this situation, it is also vitally important to realize that severe injuries may not manifest until some time has passed after the accident so it is wise to remain cautious for a few days following the accident.
Once any need for medical attention has been addressed and your vehicle is in a place of safety, look for any witnesses to the accident and collect their relevant personal details. Perhaps most importantly, do not attempt to follow and confront the perpetrator.
Finally, you need to file a police report and submit it and all pertinent information and evidence to your insurance company. If the offending party is apprehended by the police and you have suffered serious injuries resulting from the accident, you may be entitled to pursue the offender for compensation.
For 113 years, our attorneys have litigated and settled personal injury matters in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Our unparalleled experience and credentials in such cases make us the clear and obvious choice for representation in the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and surrounding areas. Consult an experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney. Contact Powell Law at (570) 961-0777. The consultation is FREE!
