Pittsburgh, PA (December 26, 2024) – Two separate crashes on the Parkway North early Tuesday morning left three individuals injured, including two Pennsylvania state troopers. Police are seeking assistance from the public to locate a vehicle involved in one of the accidents that fled the scene.
The first incident occurred shortly after midnight near the McKnight Rd exit by Northview Heights and Perry North. Pennsylvania State Police reported that a black Dodge Ram 1500 struck a man who was pushing his disabled Ford Focus out of the roadway. A passerby who had stopped to help had just begun assisting the driver when the Dodge Ram hit him and fled the scene. Emergency responders transported the injured man to the hospital, where his condition remains unknown as authorities continue to investigate.
While first responders were attending to the initial collision, a Toyota 4Runner collided with a state police vehicle stationed at the scene with its emergency lights and arrow sticks activated. The two troopers inside the vehicle sustained injuries and were transported to the hospital by EMS crews. Both troopers have since been released. The Toyota driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
Officials highlighted the importance of Pennsylvania’s Move Over Law, which requires drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles stopped on the road. This tragic series of events underscores the critical need for motorists to exercise caution and vigilance when encountering such situations.
Hit-and-Run and Move-Over Law in Pennsylvania
Hit-and-run incidents, such as the one involving the Dodge Ram 1500 on the Parkway North, create significant challenges for victims and law enforcement. In Pennsylvania, it is illegal for drivers to flee the scene of an accident, particularly when injuries are involved. These situations often leave victims facing not only physical harm but also the frustration of delayed justice and financial burdens.
The Move Over Law further emphasizes driver responsibility. Designed to protect emergency responders, this law mandates that drivers reduce their speed and switch lanes when approaching stationary vehicles with flashing lights or other warning signals. Despite these clear guidelines, many drivers fail to comply, increasing the risk of secondary accidents like the one involving the Toyota 4Runner.
Victims of hit-and-run or multi-vehicle accidents should seek immediate medical care and document as much information as possible about the incident. Legal assistance can also help victims navigate insurance claims and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
If you or someone you know has been affected by a hit-and-run or traffic accident, contact Local Accident Reports for assistance and resources to protect your rights.