What Types of Compensation Can I Pursue in a Hit and Run Case in Pittsburgh?

Hire a Pittsburgh hit and run car accident lawyer to maximize the compensation that you receive and are entitled to 

Pittsburgh, often regarded as the “Steel City,” boasts iconic landmarks such as the Point State Park fountain and the historic Phipps Conservatory. The city’s rich industrial past sits alongside a vibrant arts  scene and historic neighborhoods. However, like many urban areas, Pittsburgh is not immune to hit and run incidents that can disrupt the peace and safety of its residents. In such situations, retaining a reputable firm like Munley Law becomes essential to navigate the legal landscape and ensure victims receive the justice they deserve. If you’re a victim of a hit and run in Pittsburgh, securing a knowledgeable lawyer is crucial to ensure you receive proper compensation for damages and injuries sustained.

What is the definition of a hit and run in Pittsburgh?

Simply put, it’s an incident where a driver, after being involved in an accident—be it with another vehicle, a pedestrian, or even an inanimate object—chooses to flee the scene without offering necessary aid, exchanging details, or reporting the accident. Such actions carry significant legal and moral implications.

Legal consequences and penalties for hit and run in Pittsburgh

In Pittsburgh, individuals guilty of a hit and run can face severe legal consequences, including criminal charges. Depending on the severity of the accident and injury, perpetrators can face hefty fines, loss of driving privileges, or even imprisonment. Moreover, they may also be held financially responsible for any damages or medical expenses stemming from the incident.

What are some of the legal provisions in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh falls under the jurisdiction of Pennsylvania state laws, so legal provisions relevant to the city are generally Pennsylvania state laws. Here’s a brief overview of some legal provisions related to hit and run and other vehicular incidents:

1. Pennsylvania’s Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law (MVFRL): This law mandates that all drivers must carry a minimum amount of liability insurance to cover damages or injuries they might cause in an accident.
2. Accident reporting: Pennsylvania law requires drivers involved in an accident to stop at the scene, provide relevant information, and report the accident to the police if there are injuries or significant property damage.
3. Penalties for hit and run: Leaving the scene of an accident, especially if it involves injury or death, can result in severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and imprisonment.
4. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage: Pennsylvania offers optional uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, which protects drivers if they’re involved in an accident with someone who doesn’t have adequate insurance.

The provisions can be complex —with a local Pittsburgh attorney or legal expert for a consultation is highly advisable. When you’re ready, consultations with our award-winning Munley Law Pittsburgh personal injury lawyers are ALWAYS free. 

What is Pennsylvania’s Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law (MVFRL) in detail?

Pennsylvania’s Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law (MVFRL) is a set of statutes that establishes the requirements for motor vehicle insurance within the state of Pennsylvania. Here’s a breakdown of its essential aspects:

1. Minimum Liability Coverage: MVFRL mandates that all motor vehicle owners must have a minimum amount of liability insurance. As of my last update in September 2021, this includes:

   – $15,000 for bodily injury or death of one person in any one accident.

   – $30,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more people in any one accident.

   – $5,000 for property damage in any one accident.

2. First Party Benefits (Personal Injury Protection): Pennsylvania is a no-fault insurance state. This means that if you’re injured in an auto accident, you turn to your own insurance for compensation for medical expenses regardless of who was at fault. The minimum required is $5,000 of coverage.
3. Limited vs. Full Tort: The MVFRL gives Pennsylvania drivers a choice between “limited tort” and “full tort” options. Limited tort restricts the right to sue for pain and suffering unless injuries meet a threshold defined as “serious.” Full tort does not have these restrictions and allows the insured to sue for pain and suffering regardless of the injury severity.
4. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: While not mandatory, drivers can purchase uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage. This protects them if they’re involved in an accident with someone who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the costs of the accident.
5. Penalties for Non-Compliance: Driving without insurance in Pennsylvania can result in various penalties including a minimum of a $300 fine, a three-month suspension of the vehicle registration, and a three-month driver’s license suspension.
6. Catastrophic Loss Benefits: MVFRL provides for certain minimum catastrophic loss benefits which cover more severe injuries.

It’s essential for Pennsylvania residents to familiarize themselves with the MVFRL to ensure they are compliant with state requirements and to understand their rights and responsibilities in the event of an accident. Always consult with a local attorney or insurance expert if you have specific questions about the MVFRL and its current requirements, as regulations can change and be updated over time. Our experienced team of car accident lawyers at Munley Law offer free, no obligation consultations. 

Pathways to compensation for Pittsburgh hit and runs

Victims of hit and runs in Pittsburgh have several avenues for seeking compensation:

1. Insurance Claims: This is often the primary recourse. If the offender remains elusive, victims can turn to their insurance. Here, the uninsured motorist coverage (an optional feature in Pennsylvania) can be beneficial, providing a safety net against drivers who are either uninsured or underinsured.
2. Legal Recourse: If the fleeing driver is identified, it’s possible to initiate legal proceedings against them. Through this, victims can aim to secure compensation for various damages, including medical bills, property damage, and lost income. Pain and Suffering: One unique aspect of Pennsylvania’s insurance structure is the choice between “limited tort” and “full tort.” Those who opt for full tort insurance can sue for pain and suffering irrespective of injury severity, a route that might not be available for limited tort holders unless the injury is deemed “serious.”

Different types of compensation a hit and run victim may be eligible for

In the event of a hit and run in Pittsburgh (and across Pennsylvania), victims might be eligible for various types of compensation, depending on the circumstances of the incident and their insurance coverage. Here are the potential types of compensation:

• Medical Expenses: Covering costs related to hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical treatments.
• Property Damage: Repairs or replacement costs for your vehicle or any personal property damaged in the incident.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to injuries, which includes both past and projected future earnings.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
• Emotional Distress: Monetary damages for psychological impacts like anxiety, depression, or PTSD due to the incident.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the adverse effects on a spouse or family member’s relationship with the victim.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Expenses associated with physical therapy or counseling to help the victim recover.
• Punitive Damages: In some cases, additional compensation meant to punish the wrongdoer (though this might be more applicable if the hit and run driver is identified and their actions were particularly egregious).

It’s essential to consult with an attorney to understand the full scope of compensation you might be entitled to, as each case can be unique. Munley Law’s expert team of car accident lawyers offer no-strings attached, free consultations — do not hesitate for a complementary evaluation of your case!

The role of a Legal advocate

According to AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, an average of 682,000 hit-and-run crashes occurred per year over the last 10 years. The journey for dealing with the aftermath of a hot and run  and to obtaining compensation isn’t always straightforward. That’s where the expertise of a seasoned car accident attorney at Munley Law’s comes into play:

• Guidance through Legal Labyrinth: The legal world can be a maze for the uninitiated. An experienced lawyer can steer victims through the intricacies, ensuring they’re well-informed at every step.
• Championing Victims’ Rights: An attorney is a victim’s advocate, fighting to make sure they receive every penny they’re owed. 
• Negotiating with Insurers: Insurance companies, in their quest for profitability, often aim to minimize payouts. Having legal representation ensures that the negotiation process is balanced and that victims aren’t shortchanged.
• Emotional Support: Beyond the legal aspect, a hit and run event can be a traumatic experience. A compassionate lawyer can provide the much-needed emotional and moral support during such challenging times.

Pittsburgh’s commitment to its citizens

One of the heartening aspects of Pittsburgh’s framework is its commitment to ensuring justice for its residents. With its strict regulations and provisions concerning hit and runs, the city ensures that victims have avenues to seek redress. Additionally, community initiatives and local NGOs often step in, offering support, counseling, and resources to victims, ensuring they’re not alone in their recovery journey.

Munley Law’s commitment to Pittsburgh’s hit and run victims getting the care, legal counsel, and the compensation they deserve

While Pittsburgh’s beauty and charm are undeniable, the menace of hit and runs casts a shadow. But with the city’s robust legal framework, victims have a fighting chance at justice and compensation. It’s a journey, no doubt, fraught with challenges and emotional turmoil. Being armed with the right knowledge, legal support, and community backing, victims can navigate this ordeal and find their path to recovery.

If you, or someone you know, ever find yourselves on the receiving end of a hit and run in Pittsburgh, remember that while the aftermath can be overwhelming, there are structures in place to help. From the protective arm of the law to the compassionate hand of the community, Munley Law’s Pittsburgh team of car accident lawyers ensure that Pittsburgh residents have the resources and support they need to rebuild and move forward.