A hit-and-run accident can leave you reeling, and struggling with the emotions that come with such an incident may take time. However, every second counts after a hit-and-run accident. What you do immediately after can make all the difference in protecting your rights and securing justice.
Delaying action may not seem serious at the moment, but it can lead to major consequences down the line. From lost evidence to denied claims, time is never on your side when it comes to hit-and-run cases.
Delaying a report can have bleak consequences
Failing to report a hit-and-run accident right away can seriously weaken your case. Critical evidence like surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts or even road conditions can disappear in a matter of hours or days. The sooner the incident is reported, the greater the chance that investigators can piece together what happened and identify the driver who fled.
Timing also plays a huge role when it comes to insurance claims. Insurance companies are quick to scrutinize delays and may even use them as justification to deny or reduce your claim. They might argue that the damage didn’t happen the way you described, or that your injuries weren’t caused by the crash. Reporting the accident promptly helps establish a clear, documented timeline that supports your version of events and reinforces your credibility.
In many states, waiting too long to notify law enforcement could even violate legal requirements, making it unable for you to pursue compensation. For example, Pennsylvania imposes a two-year statute of limitations on personal injury cases, and your claim can be dismissed by the court if this deadline is missed.
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Seeking legal guidance can help protect your rights and ensure you’re able to take the right steps forward.
