If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run car accident in Philadelphia County, call a Philadelphia hit-and-run car accident lawyer at Munley Law as soon as possible. Our experienced attorneys can guide you through every step of your claim, helping to seek maximum compensation for your injuries and suffering.
Our deep-rooted connection to Philadelphia fuels our passion to serve our community, and our board-certified Philadelphia car accident lawyers know the unique challenges that Philadelphians face on our city’s diverse roads – from negotiating the rush hour traffic on I-76 to navigating the charming yet narrow lanes in Queen Village. We have extensive expertise in bringing justice to hit and run accident victims across the City of Brotherly Love, and our award-winning attorneys will ease your burden after your accident, allowing you to focus on making a full recovery.
Contact us for a free consultation today.
Call Us At 844-686-5397 What Is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit and run accident occurs when a driver involved in a motor vehicle accident leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to identify themselves, offer assistance to injured parties, or provide necessary information to law enforcement and other involved parties.
In the busy city of Philadelphia, the complex network of interstates, local roads, and narrow alleyways can become a hotbed for such incidents. Data from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation shows that Philadelphia accounted for a significant portion of the state’s hit and run collisions in recent years.
More data shared by the Governors Highway Safety Administration suggests that, as of 2024, as many as 25% of all pedestrian deaths nationally are caused by hit-and-run crashes, and in these fatal accidents, the vehicle that struck the pedestrian is the one that flees the scene in 94% of all reported cases.
Overall, American drivers struck and killed 7,148 pedestrians in 2024 alone, and according to the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, at least 125 Philly citizens were killed by traffic violence that year – a number which includes the victims of local hit-and-runs.
As a both driver or victim, navigating the aftermath of such an accident can be overwhelming without the aid of a seasoned Philly hit and run accident lawyer. Hit and run accidents in Philadelphia not only cause physical and emotional distress but also present unique legal challenges. Identifying the responsible party can be complex, and securing rightful compensation is often a daunting task.
That’s why the expertise of a skilled Philadelphia hit and run accident attorney is paramount. Call the Philadelphia hit and run accident attorneys of Munley Law for a free consultation.
What Happens When a Driver in a Philly Hit and Run Accident Can’t Be Found?
To get compensation for a hit and run, a crash victim has a few options when the other party or driver cannot be found:
- Auto insurance policy: Pennsylvania law requires auto insurance companies to offer uninsured motorist coverage. This covers damages when the at-fault driver is either uninsured or cannot be identified.
- Pennsylvania Financial Responsibility Assigned Claims Plan (PFRACP): This state-funded program can provide compensation to hit and run victims who lack their own auto insurance and who were not at fault in the accident.
A Philadelphia crash attorney from Munley Law can be your trusted ally in the fight for justice and compensation, even when the offending driver remains unknown. Our lawyers have been consistently recognized by the American Association for Justice, the Summit Council, the American Board of Trial Advocates, and the Pennsylvania Bar Association for their work in car accident cases across the state.
“For more than three generations, our family has been fighting for justice. It’s more than a career choice—it’s written into our DNA. That legacy shapes how I approach every case. The people who walk through our doors aren’t case numbers; they’re families in crisis, looking for someone to fight as hard for them as we would for our own.”
Robert W. Munley, III
What Are the Legal Implications of Philadelphia Hit and Run Accidents?
Philadelphia hit and run wrecks bear serious legal implications, not only for the victims but also for fleeing drivers.
It is a criminal offense to leave the scene of an accident without providing the necessary information or rendering aid. Penalties range from hefty fines to felony criminal charges, depending on the severity of the accident and resulting injuries.
Moreover, hit and run cases often involve criminal proceedings as well. If the offending hit and run driver is identified and charged, a Philadelphia hit and run accident lawyer can represent the victim’s interests during these proceedings.
What To Do After Philadelphia Hit and Run Crash
Being a victim of a hit and run accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience, but there are steps you can take to protect your best interests:
- Safety First: Ensure your immediate safety. If possible, move your vehicle out of traffic to a safe location.
- Call the Philadelphia Police: Notify the authorities about the incident. An official police report serves as an important piece of evidence for your case.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. It’s crucial to get a medical check-up after the incident.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of the scene, your vehicle, and any injuries sustained. If there were witnesses, collect their contact information and statements. Write down the color, make, model, and license plate number of the fleeing vehicle, and the direction it was headed.
- Notify The Insurance Company: Report the incident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Maintain Records: Keep a file of all your medical records, repair bills, and any correspondence related to the accident. These will be crucial when seeking compensation.
- Consult a Philadelphia Hit and Run Accident Lawyer: Hit and run cases can be complicated, but Munley Law can reduce the burden by thoroughly investigating your situation and using our vast network of resources to fight for compensation for your injuries.
Why Should You Hire a Philadelphia Hit and Run Car Accident Lawyer?
Navigating the aftermath of a Philadelphia hit and run accident isn’t a task one should face alone. Choosing a Philadelphia car accident attorney can streamline complex legal procedures, vigorously negotiate with insurance companies, and even liaise with law enforcement to solve your case.
At Munley Law, our lawyers’ work for Philadelphians injured in car accidents has earned us recognition from leading legal directories. All of our partners hold AV Preeminent Ratings from Martindale-Hubbell, and our lawyers have all been ranked by Best Lawyers, through which Marion Munley has been named Lawyer of the Year for Personal Injury Litigation. We also have eight Super Lawyers on staff, with Marion ranked as one of the Top 10 Super Lawyers in Pennsylvania for the past three years.
Options for Victims of Philadelphia Hit-And-Run Accidents
Victims of Philadelphia hit and runs have multiple avenues for recourse. Beyond an uninsured motorist claim, legal action, insurance coverage, and state-funded programs, there are various local resources and non-profit organizations that offer support for accident victims.
Our lawyers have extensive knowledge in this area of litigation, and we have four attorneys board-certified in Civil Trial Law and Advocacy by the National Board of Trial Advocacy, all of whom are fully qualified to represent your case in court should it move to trial.
What Are the Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents In Philadelphia?
In Philadelphia, the statute of limitations for car accidents, including hit and run cases, is generally two years from the date of the accident. This deadline applies to both personal injury and property damage claims. However, exceptions can apply in certain circumstances.
Consult a Philadelphia hit and run accident attorney promptly after the incident to ensure you don’t miss this critical window to seek compensation.
Compensation From Philadelphia Hit and Run Collisions
Victims of Philadelphia hit and run collisions may be eligible for compensation covering medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Additionally, in cases of egregious conduct, punitive damages might be awarded.
The exact amount depends on the specifics of the case, and a seasoned Philadelphia hit and run accident attorney can provide detailed guidance on potential compensation sources and amounts based on individual circumstances.
Why Choose Munley Law as Your Philadelphia Hit and Run Car Accident Lawyer
Choosing Munley Law as your Philadelphia hit and run accident attorney gives you the advantage of decades-long experience and a deep commitment to client satisfaction. With a proven track record of success, we’ve been nationally recognized as leaders in personal injury law.
All of our partners have been named some of the National Trial Lawyers Association’s Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Pennsylvania, and the NTLA has also named J. Christopher Munley one of the Top 25 Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyers in the state, highlighting our specific expertise in handling complex hit and run accident cases.
Our team combines expert legal knowledge with a compassionate approach to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve. We have won millions of dollars in settlements for injured Philadelphians to date, for which our lawyers have been honored in the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hit and Run Accidents in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
What Should I Do Immediately After Being Involved in a Hit and Run in Philadelphia?
Your first step should be to ensure your own safety by moving out of harm’s way and calling 911 to report the accident to the authorities. Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if your injuries seem minor, and preserve all medical records related to these injuries. Try to document as many details as possible about the fleeing vehicle, and gather information from witnesses. Next, notify your insurance company of the accident and consult a hit and run accident lawyer as soon as you can to learn more about how to proceed.
What Happens If I Can Only Remember Partial Details About the Fleeing Vehicle?
Even the smallest details, such as the type of vehicle that struck you, the color of this vehicle, or the first few letters or numbers of its license plate, can help your lawyer and their forensic experts identify the driver who injured you. Data from traffic and surveillance cameras and witness statements can supplement the details you can remember and help to bring the responsible parties to book. Be sure to write down and report any details you can remember as soon as possible to avoid forgetting essential information about the incident.
Can I File a Hit and Run Claim as a Cyclist or a Pedestrian in Philly?
Yes, as a pedestrian or cyclist, you also have the right to pursue compensation after being injured in a hit-and-run accident. You may be covered for your injuries under your own auto insurance policy (if you hold one), a policy held by another member of your household, or a local state program. Legal guidance is essential in these cases, as an experienced lawyer can identify all potential sources of coverage and secure maximum compensation in your claim.
Can I Still Pursue a Hit and Run Accident Claim if My Injuries Seem Minor?
Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it is still advisable to pursue a claim. Certain common hit-and-run injuries, like concussions and soft tissue damage, may seem minor at first, but can worsen over time. Filing a claim soon after your accident preserves your ability to recover future medical costs should your injuries worsen.
Contact Munley Law’s Philadelphia Hit and Run Accident Lawyers
When you partner with a Munley Law hit and run accident lawyer, expect a high standard of service rooted in expertise, compassion, and dedication.
Our team boasts decades of experience in personal injury law, resulting in a rich understanding of the unique challenges faced by hit and run victims.
As a client, you’ll experience our relentless pursuit of justice and our commitment to obtaining the maximum compensation for you.
Working with Munley Law means choosing a personal injury partner who stands by you at every stage of your journey to recovery and justice.
For a no-obligation, free consultation, contact the Philadelphia hit and run accident lawyers at Munley Law today.
Robert W. Munley, III
Robert W. Munley, III is a highly experienced and award-winning auto accident lawyer and courtroom advocate. Bob was named to Best Lawyers in 2013, and has since then gone on to be named among the Lawdragon 500 Leading Lawyers in America and the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Pennsylvania by the National Trial Lawyers Association. Among the thousands of victims Bob has served, notable cases he has helped with include a $17.5 million jury verdict for a teen death caused by a car accident, and an $8 million settlement for the family of a decorated Marine who was killed in an accident involving two large trucks.
