Author: John Mattiacci | Owner Mattiacci Law
Published August 28, 2025
What should you do after a hit and run accident in Pennsylvania? Call 911, get medical care, document the scene, and complete required reports. Notify your insurer quickly so uninsured motorist coverage can apply, and save all photos, witnesses, and repair records as proof.
Having recovered tens of millions for clients over decades of advocacy across PA and NJ, I’ve seen firsthand how every case is unique. For a complimentary, no-obligation review of your specific situation, contact an experienced Pennsylvania personal injury attorney at 215-914-6919. In this article, I’ll explain legal duties, reporting steps, uninsured motorist options, and how to strengthen your case from day one.
What Hit and Run Means in Pennsylvania
**Hit and run** is when a driver involved in a crash fails to stop and provide information or aid. State law requires drivers to remain at the scene and share identity and insurance information when injuries or property damage occur.
Why Fast Reporting Matters for Your Claim
Prompt police reports create an official record and preserve surveillance video, skid marks, and witness identities. Many insurance policies require quick notice for uninsured motorist claims, and some judges examine prejudice from delays when coverage is disputed.
Step by Step After a Pennsylvania Hit and Run
1. Call 911 and seek care Your health comes first. Immediate records also tie injuries to the crash.
2. Stay at the scene safely Move to a safe spot and warn traffic while waiting for police.
3. Gather evidence Photograph vehicles, debris, road signs, and any camera locations.
4. Identify witnesses Record contact details and ask for short written statements if possible.
5. File required reports If police do not investigate, complete the AA‑600 driver report within five days.
6. Notify your insurer Open a claim promptly to protect uninsured motorist coverage rights.
7. Preserve expenses Keep repair estimates, rental receipts, and medical bills in one folder.
Options to Cover Losses When the Other Driver Flees
- Uninsured motorist coverage Often applies to hit and run and phantom‑vehicle events under your policy.
- Collision and medical benefits First‑party coverage can help repair the car and pay medical bills quickly.
- Restitution in criminal case If police identify the driver, the court may order restitution in addition to your civil claim.
Pennsylvania Legal Duties and Forms You Should Know
Drivers involved in injury crashes must stop and render aid under 75 Pa.C.S. §3742 and provide information and assistance under §3744. When police do not investigate, use the AA‑600 Driver’s Accident Report within five days to report qualifying crashes.
Insurance Rules for Phantom Vehicles and Proof
Some policies discuss **phantom vehicles**, where the at‑fault car leaves without contact. Insurers may demand prompt notice and credible corroboration. We bolster proof with witness statements, scene photos, nearby video, and, where available, telematics or dash‑cam files.
Evidence Checklists That Speed Uninsured Motorist Claims
- Scene photos, vehicle damage close‑ups, and debris patterns
- Names and numbers for all witnesses and responding officers
- Medical records from the first 24–48 hours
- Proof of rental, towing, and repairs with dates
Common Insurer Pushbacks and How I Respond
Carriers may argue late notice or lack of contact means no coverage. Courts often look for actual prejudice to the insurer. We submit complete packages with early police contact, the AA‑600 when required, and corroborating witnesses to meet policy conditions fairly.
Use this quick reference to compare your options at a glance.
| Coverage | What it pays | What to provide |
|---|---|---|
| Uninsured motorist | Bodily injury losses | Report quickly and document proof |
| Collision coverage | Vehicle repair | Use photos and estimates promptly |
| Medical benefits | Treatment bills | Keep EOBs and receipts |
What Is a Phantom Vehicle Claim?
Pennsylvania law recognizes phantom vehicles, where the at-fault car leaves without physical contact. Insurance companies may push back, requiring:
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Quick reporting.
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Credible witness corroboration.
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Photos or dash-cam footage.
Our firm builds strong proof packages with scene evidence, video, and telematics when available.
Let Mattiacci Law Protect Your Rights
Dealing with insurers after a hit and run is stressful. We handle everything for you:
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Coordinating with police and investigators.
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Filing and tracking insurance notices.
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Building strong evidence files.
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Fighting insurers that try to deny or delay coverage.
Call 215-914-6919 today for your free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win.
Resources
- 75 Pa.C.S. §3742 stop and remain
- 75 Pa.C.S. §3744 duty to give information and aid
- AA‑600 driver report
- PA Insurance Department auto guide
Further Reading
- What to do after a Pennsylvania crash
- Pennsylvania car accident laws e‑guide
- Pennsylvania no‑fault explained
- Car accident lawsuit in Pennsylvania