Claiming Compensation after a Hit and Run
Being injured in a car accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence puts you in a challenging position. If, however, the at-fault driver flees the accident scene, the situation becomes significantly worse. The good news is that there are pathways toward compensation in Reading, PA, and the experienced car accident attorneys at Fanelli, Evans & Patel have the experience and legal skill to help.
Locating the At-Fault Driver
Now that everyone carries a video camera in their hand, pocket, or bag, it is increasingly complex for hit-and-run drivers to escape detection. The advent of security cameras, traffic cameras, and dashcams also makes a big difference.
The Available Evidence
If a hit-and-run driver’s negligence injured you, seeking compensation through their insurance coverage is a possibility. Evidence like the following often helps to seal the deal:
- The testimony of eyewitnesses
- Photos and videos captured by cameras and bystanders in the vicinity
- Any identifying information you can share, such as details about the other driver or their car
- Any physical evidence left at the scene of the accident
The more evidence available, the greater the chance that the negligent driver will be located.
Your Covered Losses
In a personal injury claim against a negligent motorist, you can seek compensation for your economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Property damage to your vehicle and its contents
- Medical expenses that include ongoing costs
- Lost income that includes lost earning power
- Physical and emotional pain and suffering represent non-economic loss
If the other driver’s conduct qualifies as especially egregious, which can apply to malicious, intentional, or reckless behavior, punitive damages may also apply. If the accident was caused by a driver who was well over the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and who fled the scene, for example, punitive damages may be awarded. These are designed to punish the at-fault driver rather than to compensate you.
Your Own Insurance Coverage
Even if the negligent driver can’t be found, you are very likely to have your own insurance coverage to fall back on in the State of Pennsylvania.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
In Pennsylvania, every driver is required to purchase at least $5,000 in medical coverage through personal injury protection (PIP) that applies regardless of who is at fault. Many people also carry more robust policies that cover more extensive medical expenses as well as lost income.
Uninsured & Underinsured (UIM)
There is also uninsured and underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage to consider in the aftermath of a hit and run. To refuse this coverage, you must do so in writing, which means you may carry it.
These policies address the same damages as a personal injury claim. Additionally, the coverage can be stacked, or added together, across policies in your household.
A Reading Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
The Reading car accident attorneys at Fanelli, Evans & Patel, P.C., will spare no effort in our quest to recover compensation for your full range of losses in the wake of a hit and run. Learn more by contacting us online or calling us at 484-869-2113 today.