Hit & Run Pedestrian Accidents: Responding After a Driver Flees the Scene

May 3, 2023

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a traumatic experience, especially when the driver responsible flees the scene. It's crucial to understand how to handle such a situation to protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries. The Slusser Law Firm is experienced in handling hit-and-run pedestrian accident cases and is here to provide guidance on the dos and don'ts of responding to a driver who flees the scene.


Do: Stay Safe & Call 911

Your safety should be your top priority. If you're injured, try to move to a safe location away from traffic. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Provide the dispatcher with the accident location and any information about the hit-and-run driver and their vehicle, such as the license plate number, make, model, or color.


Don't: Chase the Hit & Run Driver

While it's natural to want justice after being involved in a hit-and-run accident, chasing the fleeing driver can be extremely dangerous and could result in further injuries or even legal trouble. Instead, focus on gathering information about the driver and their vehicle and let law enforcement handle the pursuit.


Do: Gather Evidence & Information

If you're able to do so, collect as much evidence as possible at the scene of the accident. Take photos or videos of the area, your injuries, and any property damage. Speak with any witnesses and ask for their contact information. If possible, write down a detailed account of the accident, including the time, location, and any details about the fleeing driver and their vehicle.


Don't: Wait to Seek Medical Attention

Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it's important to seek medical attention promptly after a hit-and-run pedestrian accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could worsen over time if left untreated. Additionally, a medical evaluation can help document your injuries and provide crucial evidence in your personal injury claim.


Do: Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney

Hit-and-run pedestrian accidents can be complex, and seeking compensation for your injuries can be challenging without legal representation. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney, like the team at Slusser Law Firm, as soon as possible. We can help you navigate the legal process, communicate with insurance companies, and ensure your rights are protected.


Don't: Speak to Insurance Companies Without Legal Representation

Insurance companies may attempt to contact you after a hit-and-run pedestrian accident. It's crucial not to discuss the details of the accident or your injuries without first consulting your attorney. Your attorney can help you understand your rights and ensure that any statements you make do not jeopardize your claim.


Get Started with an Initial Consultation Today

If you've been the victim of a hit-and-run pedestrian accident, it's essential to know how to respond and protect your rights. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Slusser Law Firm in Luzerne County, PA are dedicated to helping hit-and-run accident victims seek the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.

January 20, 2025
The holidays are a time to hit the road and visit loved ones, but winter weather doesn’t always make things easy. Snow, ice, and long road trips can lead to accidents, especially when you’re driving through unfamiliar areas. Getting in an accident is already stressful – and being far from home can make it even more complicated. Here’s what you need to know if you find yourself in an accident while traveling out of town – and how Slusser Law Firm can help. Focus on safety first If you’re in an accident, especially in winter conditions, take a moment to check that everyone in your car is safe. Move to a safer location if possible, especially on icy roads where other drivers might be having a hard time stopping. Call emergency services if anyone is injured, and get medical attention as soon as possible if you need it. Health comes first. Collect important details Documenting the accident is key – no matter where you are. Take photos of the accident scene, road conditions, and vehicle damage. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver(s) involved, if any, and get the names and contact details of any witnesses. Know your rights – even out of state Here’s where things get a bit more complicated: If you’re in an accident outside of Pennsylvania, different state laws might come into play. Insurance rules, deadlines for reporting injuries, and liability laws can vary from state to state. While it may sound overwhelming, Slusser Law Firm is here to help you navigate these complexities and make sure you’re covered, even when things aren’t straightforward. Don’t wait to reach out for help After an accident, especially if you’re away from home, you may feel unsure about what to do next. Give us a call. We’ve got experience handling out-of-town cases, and we’ll walk you through every step to make sure your rights are protected. Our team is here to answer your questions and give you peace of mind during the holidays. Dealing with an accident far from home doesn’t have to be a headache. At Slusser Law Firm, we make sure that you’re well-informed and fully supported, no matter where you are. With our help, you can focus on what matters most this season: spending time with family, recovering, and enjoying the holiday spirit. If you have questions about holiday travel safety, accident claims, or anything in between, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re available 24/7 to help you stay prepared and protected.
January 13, 2025
If you're like most people, car insurance terms can feel like a different language. Insurance companies love to push "limited tort" because it’s cheaper – they say it’ll save you money now. But what they don’t tell you is that it could cost you way more in the long run if you ever get hurt in an accident. Let’s break it down.  What’s the difference between full tort and limited tort? Full Tort: This option lets you claim compensation for all of your losses, pain and suffering included, if you’re injured in an accident. Think of it as a full-access pass to the benefits you’re paying for. Limited Tort: Sure, it might lower your monthly premium, but there’s a big catch. With limited tort, you’re generally limited in what you can recover. You may still be able to claim for medical bills, but pain and suffering? Not so much. Unless your injuries are classified as “serious” – and proving that can be a tall order – you’re out of luck. Why full tort is worth it Look, I get it. Insurance can get expensive, and limited tort seems like a quick way to save. But here’s the reality: car accidents can be life-changing. Medical bills, lost work, the pain – all of it adds up. If you go with limited tort, you could be left with bills that far outweigh the savings you pocketed upfront. When you’re paying for full tort, you’re investing in peace of mind. If the worst happens, you’ve got the flexibility to pursue compensation that truly reflects what you’re going through. Let’s make it real Imagine this: You’re hit in a collision that wasn’t your fault. You have some injuries – maybe a few fractures and weeks of painful recovery. But since you have limited tort, getting compensated for the emotional and physical toll might not be in the cards. Full tort? You’d be covered for those losses. It’s the difference between getting only some of what you need versus being fully supported. So, what should you do? If you’re serious about protecting yourself, go with full tort. You’ll pay a bit more upfront, but the benefits if you’re ever in an accident are worth every penny. It’s like wearing a helmet when you ride a motorcycle – you hope you’ll never need it, but you’ll be grateful it’s there if you do. At Slusser Law Firm, your fight is our fight, and we're here to help you understand your options and make sure you’re fully protected. If you have questions about car insurance choices, personal injury cases, or anything else, feel free to reach out. We’re always happy to chat 24/7 and make these big decisions feel a little less daunting.
January 6, 2025
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