A fleeing driver takes the license plate and, victims assume, the case. Usually wrong on both counts: hit-and-run drivers get found more often than people expect, and even when they don’t, uninsured-motorist coverage exists for precisely this moment — including for pedestrians and cyclists who didn’t know they had it.
Two Tracks, Run Simultaneously
- Finding the driver. Camera canvassing (homes, businesses, transit), paint and parts evidence, witness follow-up, and the police investigation — the first two weeks matter most, which is why we start immediately.
- Claiming regardless. Uninsured-motorist (UM) coverage on your policy — or a household member’s — covers phantom-driver crashes, and it extends to you as a pedestrian or cyclist. Our post on uninsured-driver compensation explains the mechanics.
- Your own insurer is not your friend here. A UM claim puts your insurer in the adversary’s chair — same tactics, familiar logo. Treat their questions like any defendant’s.
- Report fast. Prompt police reporting protects both the investigation and UM-claim requirements — PennDOT reporting rules apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
The police haven’t found the driver. Is my claim stuck?
No — the UM claim proceeds on the crash evidence whether or not the driver surfaces. Identification helps (their liability coverage joins the picture); it isn’t required.
Will a UM claim raise my rates?
Pennsylvania restricts penalizing not-at-fault claims, and UM coverage is the product you bought for this exact event. Fear of premiums shouldn’t donate your claim to the insurer.
I was walking — I don’t even own a car. What coverage could I have?
A household member’s auto policy may cover you, and other sources sometimes apply. Coverage mapping for pedestrian hit-and-runs is exactly the analysis worth a free consultation.
How long do I have to file?
Generally two years under Pennsylvania law — with a six-month written-notice requirement for claims against government entities and special rules for minors and late-discovered injuries. Evidence fades faster than any deadline.
What does hiring you cost?
No attorney’s fee unless we recover for you; the contingency percentage and case-cost handling are in the written fee agreement you review before signing. Consultations are free.
Ready to talk about your case? Call (215) 464-4600 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation — contingency fee, no attorney’s fee unless we recover, costs explained in the written fee agreement.