Hit-and-Run Accidents

What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver causes a collision and leaves the scene without:

• Stopping to check for injuries
• Exchanging insurance information
• Calling police
• Rendering aid

Delaware law requires all drivers involved in a crash to remain at the scene. Fleeing is illegal — and often indicates that the driver may be uninsured, intoxicated, driving without a license, or attempting to avoid legal consequences.

Regardless of why the driver fled, you still have important rights as a victim.

Common Hit-and-Run Accident Scenarios

Hit-and-run crashes can occur in many situations, including:

1. Rear-End Collisions

A driver hits you from behind, then speeds away to avoid responsibility.

2. Intersection Crashes

Drivers run red lights or fail to yield, hitting another vehicle or pedestrian before fleeing.

3. Parking Lot Accidents

A driver damages your parked vehicle and leaves without leaving contact information.

4. Pedestrian or Cyclist Crashes

The most devastating cases often involve walkers or bicyclists struck by fleeing motorists.

5. Side-Swipe or “Hit-and-Go” Accidents

A driver veers into your lane, hits your car, then keeps going.

6. Drunk Driver Hit-and-Runs

Impaired drivers frequently flee to avoid DUI charges.

No matter how your accident happened, our attorneys investigate thoroughly to help identify who is responsible.

How Hit-and-Run Accident Investigations Work

At Schuster Jachetti LLP, we know how to uncover evidence even when the driver disappears. Our legal team works closely with:

• Local and state police
• Traffic reconstruction experts
• Private investigators
• Insurance companies
• Witnesses and community members

We gather every possible piece of information, including:

• Traffic and surveillance camera footage
• License plate recognition data
• Eyewitness statements
• Vehicle debris left at the scene
• Dash cam video
• Cell phone location records (when available)

Even if the driver is never found, you still may be entitled to compensation through your own insurance coverage.

Delaware law provides several paths for victims to recover compensation. You may be eligible for:

PIP Benefits (Personal Injury Protection)

Delaware requires all drivers to carry PIP coverage, which pays for:

• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Essential services

This applies regardless of who was at fault, making it crucial in hit-and-run cases.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage

If the fleeing driver is never found, or turns out to be uninsured, UM/UIM may cover:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability

Our attorneys review your policy to maximize your available recovery.

Property Damage Coverage

Depending on your insurance, vehicle repairs or replacement may be covered.

Criminal Restitution (If the Driver Is Found)

If the driver is later identified and criminally convicted, courts may require them to repay your losses.

Civil Lawsuit Against the Driver

If the hit-and-run driver is located, you may file a lawsuit for full damages.

We pursue all available options to ensure you are not left paying out of pocket for someone else’s reckless behavior.

Common Injuries in Delaware Hit-and-Run Crashes

Without immediate medical attention, hit-and-run injuries can be even more dangerous. Our attorneys represent clients who have suffered:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Concussions
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal injuries
• Knee, shoulder, and back injuries
• Facial trauma
• Burns or road rash
• Permanent disability
• Wrongful death

Whether you were in a vehicle, walking, or biking, you deserve compensation for your injuries and losses.

Delaware’s Laws on Hit-and-Run Accidents

Understanding state law is essential to building a strong case.

Leaving the Scene Is a Crime

Delaware law imposes heavy penalties for fleeing the scene — especially when someone is injured.

Two-Year Statute of Limitations

Most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the accident.

Comparative Negligence

You can still recover damages as long as you were not more than 50% at fault.

Insurance Requirements

Delaware drivers must carry PIP and liability insurance, which helps support injury claims.

Our attorneys explain these laws clearly and help you navigate the entire recovery process.

Why You Need a Delaware Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer

Hit-and-run cases require a fast, methodical legal approach. When you hire Schuster Jachetti LLP, our team:

• Immediately investigates the accident
• Works to identify the fleeing driver
• Coordinates with police and investigators
• Preserves video and digital evidence
• Handles all communication with insurers
• Files UM/UIM claims when needed
• Pursues full compensation for your injuries

We don’t let insurance companies take advantage of victims, especially when the at-fault driver cannot be found.

Speak With a Delaware Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a hit-and-run accident, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. At Schuster Jachetti LLP, our Delaware hit-and-run accident lawyers — including Kenneth R. Schuster, Esq. — are ready to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Call today for a free consultation. You focus on healing — we handle everything else.