If you’re injured in a hit-and-run crash in Franklin County, you can still recover compensation, usually through your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. When a driver flees after a crash on Interstate 81 or Route 30 near Chambersburg, evidence becomes immensely critical. The strength of your claim will heavily depend on how quickly you act and how well you preserve evidence.
At Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe, our hit-and-run accident attorneys will move fast to protect your legal claim, document the crash, and prevent insurers from minimizing your compensation.
Report The Hit-and-Run Crash Immediately
Call 911 right away. A police report will create an official record of the crash, document any damage and injuries, and identify witnesses. If the collision happened near Greencastle or Waynesboro, for instance, responding officers can locate surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras. Without a prompt report, key details of the crash can be lost. Insurance carriers frequently require proof that the crash occurred, and a police report strengthens your UM claim.
Seek Medical Treatment Without Delay
Even if your symptoms seem minor, get evaluated immediately. Head injuries, neck trauma, back injuries, and internal injuries may not appear right away. Your medical records can connect your injuries directly to the hit-and-run crash, while delaying treatment gives insurers room to argue that your condition came from something else.
Preserve Physical and Digital Evidence Promptly
Photograph vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, and visible injuries. Save your dashcam footage if applicable. In many cases, nearby warehouse or retail surveillance has captured fleeing vehicles and helped hit-and-run victims build a strong injury claim. Acting quickly can allow your attorney to send a preservation request before the footage is erased. Witness statements also matter. Independent observers who saw the fleeing vehicle can provide identifying details of the vehicle or driver.
Review Your Uninsured Motorist Coverage
Hit-and-run claims usually proceed under your own uninsured motorist policy. Pennsylvania insurers are legally obligated to offer UM coverage, though you can reject it in writing. Understanding your coverage limits is essential. UM claims can cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical care
Insurance providers investigate UM claims carefully and usually dispute fault, injury severity, or damages. Some Pennsylvania policies also require physical contact with the unidentified vehicle or independent corroborating evidence if no contact occurred. Witness statements, video footage, or other supporting proof are necessary to prevent denial of coverage.
Document Your Lost Income and the Long-Term Impact of the Crash
Keep records of missed work, reduced hours, and medical restrictions. Serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal damage, can significantly affect your long-term earning capacity and overall quality of life. Your compensation must reflect those consequences.
What an Accident Lawyer Can Do for You
A seasoned Franklin County hit-and-run accident attorney will secure crash reports, request surveillance footage, and identify potential witnesses before evidence disappears. They’ll review your insurance policy to confirm your UM coverage and applicable limits.
They will also gather medical documentation that links your injuries directly to the collision and calculate your current and future damages, including lost earning capacity. Your attorney will also handle all communication with insurers and fight back when they attempt to reduce or deny your claim, whether through negotiations or in court.
Seek Legal Guidance from Our Experienced Accident Attorneys
You shouldn’t be stuck paying for the consequences of a hit-and-run crash. Find out how our lawyers at Shollenberger Januzzi & Wolfe can help by calling 717-229-6580 or by reaching out online.