A Pennsylvania State Trooper was injured earlier this week in a hit-and-run accident on an onramp connecting Route 28 with Route 422. The accident occurred in the morning around 6:30 a.m. According to the police, the vehicle that struck the trooper was traveling south on Route 28. At the time of the accident the 50-year-old sergeant had stopped and was not moving.
Despite the fact that his injuries were apparently not life-threatening 24-year state police veteran was nonetheless transported via helicopter to UPMC Presbyterian after first being taken to Armstrong County Memorial Hospital. The extent of his injuries is unknown though there were reports that he was complaining about pain in his neck and back.
After the accident, the ramp was closed for a while by PennDOT. During that time the scene was examined by investigators.
A description of the vehicle that left the scene has not yet been released. If the driver is found it is likely that he or she will face criminal charges. In addition, a civil lawsuit could be filed against the driver as well. If successful, the state trooper could recover damages for things such as medical bills and lost wages.
Regardless of whether the driver is located, it is highly likely that the injured state trooper will file a workers' compensation claim. This process can be confusing and complex. In addition, it can be difficult to secure the maximum amount of benefits available. With the assistance of an experienced workers' compensation attorney, the entire process is usually easier to navigate.
Source: KDKA, "State Trooper Injured In Armstrong Co. Hit & Run Accident," Feb. 2, 2012