Hit-And-Runs Becoming An Epidemic In Philly

September 28, 2021

A Philadelphia car accident lawyer explains

In Philadelphia, hit-and-run accidents are an epidemic. About 1 in 4 crashes in Philadelphia are a hit-and-run, according to ABC6. On average, more than 16,000 fail-to-stay crashes happen in the city each year.

Pedestrian accidents are too often fatal, and hit-and-run crashes account for about 20% of pedestrian deaths every year.

Just recently in Philadelphia, after a month with few leads, a reward is now being offered for information about a fatal hit-and-run that resulted in the death of a mother and serious injuries to her 3-year-old son after they were both hit by possibly more than one vehicle while on foot.

The family of the deceased woman announced a $30,000 reward for anyone who steps forward with information about the tragic incident.

“We just want justice, that’s it,” the victim’s sister said to local media. “We want my sister to rest in peace and my nephew, for all of us to focus on him.”

Two Suspect Vehicles

The fatal hit and run happened on an August Sunday around 8 p.m. along West Luzerne Street in Hunting Park. There are not many security cameras in that area, but police were alerted by people who happened upon the scene. Multiple 911 calls say the mother was found lying in the street.

In September, police released enhanced FBI photos of two vehicles wanted for questioning in connection with the crash. The photos appear to show a dark-colored 2011 Chrysler 300 and a newer model, red Toyota Camry.

Police say the photos tell an incomplete story about the accident. The photos show the mother and son walking down a wide sidewalk, near an underpass, just before the collision. Next, the dark-colored Chrysler drives onto the scene and, according to photos, appears to put on the brakes, police say. The red Camry follows close behind. Whether these cars struck the family or the drivers saw anything of interest is not clear.

Anyone with information should contact the Philadelphia Police Accident Investigation Division.

A ‘hit-and-run culture’ in Philadelphia?

The Philadelphia Police Department receives about 40 reports of hit-and-runs every day, according to the local news. Some people say the city has a hit-and-run “culture.”

Some of the most deadly places for hit-and-runs are in low-income neighborhoods that lack proper street lighting and could use a boost in traffic enforcement. Advocates for safer streets say that automated speed and red light enforcement would help to deter bad driving behaviors. Others say that the penalties and fines for hit-and-run drivers need to be harsher.

In Pennsylvania, the penalty for a hit-and-run that results in property damage is a fine of up to $2,500 and no more than 1 year in imprisonment. If someone dies in a hit-and-run, the at-fault driver faces at least 3 years imprisonment and no less than a $2,500 fine.

Crash victims can seek legal help

If you were injured or a loved one died in a crash caused by someone else, you can contact a car accident lawyer from our law firm to learn your legal rights and options. Recovering your losses after a hit-and-run is complicated, but we can help you identify any applicable sources of compensation and guide you down the right path.

At Villari, Giannone and Matteo, we have a reputation for helping people get their lives back on track after an accident. We always advocate for maximum compensation because we understand what is at stake for you and your loved ones. You need the resources to cover your past, current, and future medical expenses, and you should be compensated appropriately for any other losses related to your accident.

Let our law firm fight for the financial compensation you need and deserve.

Contact us to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Philadelphia car accident attorney. We proudly serve the community 24/7 from our offices in Philadelphia and Montgomery County, as well as Marlton in Burlington County, New Jersey.