What to Do After a Hit and Run?

A hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling confused and vulnerable. If someone hits your parked car or your vehicle while you're on the road, it's important to know what steps to take. First, check for any injuries and move to a safe location if possible. Call the police right away to report the accident. Take pictures of your car and note details about the other vehicle. Find a witness who can provide information. If your car was parked and hit, make sure to document the scene carefully. You should also contact your insurance company to start a claim. Read on to learn more about what to do after a hit and run. 

Things to Know First About Hit and Run Accidents 

To understand better about hit-and-run accidents, you need to know a few things first:

1. What is a hit-and-run accident?
2. Common scenarios in hit-and-runs
3. Why do drivers flee the scene?
4. Legal consequences of hit and run

1. What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?

To put it plainly, a hit-and-run accident happens when a driver causes an accident and leaves the scene without stopping to help or provide information. 

Hit-and-run accidents can happen in many ways, such as:  

• Hitting a parked car
• Striking a pedestrian
• Colliding with another vehicle

It doesn’t matter if the car was hit while parked or on busy streets. Leaving the scene is a crime.

For example, a driver might sideswipe a parked car in a crowded parking lot and flee to avoid responsibility. In the United States, hit-and-runs make up about 17% of all reported car accidents, says NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 2020). In 2020, the number of fatalities from hit-and-run crashes increased by 26% compared to 2019. These stats highlight how serious these incidents can be. 

2. Common Scenarios in Hit and Runs

Hit-and-runs take many forms. The most common scenarios include:

1. Car Hit While Parked: If a driver hits a parked car and flees the scene without leaving a note or contacting the owner.
2. On-the-Road Collision: A vehicle rear-ends another or causes a crash at an intersection, then speeds off.
3. Pedestrian Strikes: Drivers fleeing after hitting someone crossing the street.
4. Parking Lot Accidents: Tight spaces lead to fender benders where drivers often drive off unnoticed.
5. Driving Under the Influence: Intoxication can make a driver lose control, potentially leading to a hit-and-run crash.

Just think of a situation where you returned to your parked car to find scratches and dents or a broken mirror. This can be frustrating but unfortunately, it happens often, particularly in high-traffic areas like shopping centers. 

3. Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene? 

After hitting someone’s car, drivers flee the spot and they might do so for many reasons. Some are afraid of the legal or financial consequences. Others might be driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In some cases, drivers lack a valid license or car insurance. So, most of this motivation comes from rational decision theory where someone uses their self-interest to make their choices. 

For instance, a driver without liability insurance might panic after hitting a car. Fear of paying for damages, or facing legal charges which often leads them to flee. In fact, this reckless and unethical behavior only makes things worse. 

Here are a few reasons why drivers flee the scene after hit-and-run accidents (Via research published by the Foundation for Traffic Safety):  

• Fear of Jail: Drivers with criminal records want to avoid jail.
• Opportunity to Escape: Fewer witnesses at night.
• Suppress Inhibitions: Alcohol reduces the fear of fleeing.
• Personality Traits: Predisposition to criminal behavior.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Weighing risks of reporting vs. fleeing.
• Subjective Responsibility: Feeling more at fault increases flight risk.
• Self-Preservation: Protecting themselves from perceived scams.
• Perceived Severity: Believing the crash isn't serious.
• Unawareness: Not realizing they were in a crash.
• Hiding Substance Abuse: Concealing intoxication.

4. Legal Consequences of Hit-and-Runs 

In the U.S. hit-and-runs carry severe penalties. The consequences depend on the damages caused.

• Property Damage Only: Fleeing after damaging a vehicle or other property is typically a misdemeanor.
• Injury or Death: If someone is hurt or killed, the charge escalates to a felony. 

For example: a driver who leaves the scene of a fatal accident could face serious charges. These charges often result in long prison sentences, hefty fines, and the permanent revocation of their driver's license. Also, the driver may face civil lawsuits from the victim's family. Many states impose license suspension as well.

Let’s see hit-and-run charges in Tennessee for instance:

• Property Damage ≤ $1,500: Class B misdemeanor, up to 6 months in jail, $500 fine.
• Property Damage > $1,500: Class A misdemeanor, up to 11 months 29 days in jail, $2,500 fine.
• Injury/Death: Class A misdemeanor, up to 11 months 29 days in jail, $2,500 fine; severe cases: felony, 1-6 years in prison. 
   

Note that the U.S. law treats hit-and-run as a serious crime because it leaves victims vulnerable and without help. So, as a responsible driver, you should always try to avoid unexpected crashes and ensure night time safe driving practices. However, even if you accidentally hit another vehicle or pedestrian, you should stop your car immediately and offer help to the victim. 

Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit and Run

Many drivers who are victims of hit-and-runs wonder what to do after getting hit by a car. Well, you don’t need to do anything magical. Rather you just need to act quickly and safely. First, decide if it's safe to follow the fleeing driver. Then, check for any damage and injuries. Call emergency services right away. Staying calm and taking these steps can really help. Let’s look at these aspects in a little bit of detail so that you don’t fail to remember! 

Staying Safe After the Accident

Your safety comes first. After a hit-and-run accident, check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Shock can hide pain, so take a moment to assess carefully. The most common delayed shock symptoms after an accident include headaches, dizziness, chest pain, or unexplained bleeding. 

But if you’re uninjured, move to a safe spot away from traffic. In fact, staying near the scene is necessary. So, if your car is drivable, park it in a secure location. For parked cars hit in lots or on streets, make sure you’re out of harm’s way before inspecting the damage. Remember, if anything bad happens on the road, safety should be your topmost priority. And you should always seek medical attention first even if the injury seems minor. 

Should You Follow the Fleeing Driver?

In any hit-and-run case, chasing the at-fault driver might feel irresistible. However, you shouldn’t do so and leave it to the authorities. Because it can escalate the situation and you could risk your safety or cause another accident. 

Also, another drawback of leaving the scene is that it makes it harder to collect evidence or speak with witnesses. The fleeing driver might be under the influence or acting recklessly which can make the chase even more dangerous for you. Besides, if you chase the other driver, it would be difficult for law enforcement officers to decide who is responsible for the crash. That’s why you better stay calm and focus on what you can control like documenting the scene and contacting the authorities. 

Assessing Damage and Injuries 

Next, check for visible damage to your car. Look for dents, scratches, or paint marks from the other vehicle. Also, take note of any shattered glass or broken parts.

If there are injuries, call 911 immediately. Even minor injuries should not be ignored. For instance, a slight neck pain could later reveal a more severe injury. Gather information about the damage and injuries to help with your police report and insurance claim. 

Contacting the Emergency Services

Always report a hit-and-run to the police. Call 911 right away. Provide details like the time, location, and description of the fleeing vehicle. If there are witnesses, share their information with the police.

Also, keep in mind that some states require police reports for insurance claims. Request a copy of the report for your records. Emergency services are there to help, so reach out promptly. Act fast to make sure the incident is documented and helps law enforcement track down the responsible driver. However, if you didn’t find anything about the other driver, but you need car insurance coverage anyhow, learn how to find out if someone has auto insurance. 

How Can I Collect Evidence After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Getting into a hit-and-run accident can be really devastating. But you have to stay calm and know how to collect evidence that can help identify who was responsible. Less than 10% of hit-and-run drivers get arrested and successfully prosecuted in criminal courts. This means the chances of facing consequences are not good. 

So, if you have a full coverage car insurance policy, this collection of evidence can help you with a faster insurance claim process, and provide tremendous post-accident financial benefits. 

This section focuses on the four key tactics: gathering witness testimonials, documenting the scene, finding surveillance footage, and sharing the key details with the police. 

1. Witness Testimonials

Witnesses are invaluable in hit-and-run cases. They may have noticed details you missed, such as the make and model of the fleeing car or its license plate number. 
Here's what to do:

• Gently ask witnesses what they saw.
• Write down their statements or record them on your phone (with permission).
• Collect their contact information, which includes their name and phone number in case the police need follow-ups.

For instance, if someone saw your car get hit in a parking lot, their account could provide vital evidence to track the responsible driver.

2. Documenting the Scene

Take photographs or videos of the scene as soon as possible. This is really important if the car was parked and hit. Use these tips:

• Capture images of your vehicle’s damage from multiple angles.
• Look for paint scratches or debris from the fleeing driver.
• Photograph the surroundings, like road signs, and landmarks, to establish exact location.
• Note any skid marks, shattered glass, or tire tracks left behind.

Documentation not only helps law enforcement but also serves as proof for your insurance provider. 

3. Surveillance Cameras and Nearby Footage

Many businesses, parking lots, and even homes have surveillance systems these days that may have recorded the accident. 
Here’s what to do:

• Look around for visible cameras near the scene.
• Approach business owners or security personnel to ask if surveillance video footage is available.
• Request a copy of the video before it gets erased, as many systems overwrite footage after a few days.

For example, if a nearby gas station has cameras which they should, their footage might capture the fleeing car’s license plate. Share any recordings you find with the police. 

4. Key Details to Share with Police 

When reporting the accident, provide as much detail as possible. So the police can build a case based on it. Key details include:

• Description of the fleeing car: color, model, and license plate number (even partial).
• The direction the car was headed when it left.
• The time and location of the incident.
• Physical description of the driver, if you saw them.

What Should I Do About My Insurance After a Hit and Run?

Dealing with insurance after a hit and run can be tough. But if you follow the right steps, it will be easier. It's important to file a police report, contact your insurance company, know the different types of car insurance coverage, and understand how deductibles work.

First,File a Police Report

A police report is the foundation of any hit-and-run insurance claim. Many insurers require it, and it’s very vital for legal documentation. 
Here’s what to include in the report:

• Time and location of the accident.
• Details about the fleeing vehicle, such as color, make, model, or license plate.
• Any visible damage to your car.Witness information, if available.

For instance, if your car was hit while parked, the report proves the damage wasn’t your fault. Always request a copy of the report for your records and insurance company.

Inform Your Insurance Provider About the Incident 

In most states, you typically have a maximum of 30 days to inform your insurance provider. However, it would be considered a far better practice if you let the insurer know about the hit-and-run case within 24 hours. Besides, the timeline may depend on your policy. In many cases, we have seen strict timelines for reporting hit-and-run incidents. 

When you call the auto insurance company, provide:

• The police report
• Photos or videos of the damage
• Witness details, if applicable

Remember, one of the insurance agents or representatives will guide you through the whole claim process. Immediate action helps speed up repairs and ensures your claim isn’t delayed. 

Check Insurance Coverage Applicable for Hit-and-Run Incidents

Many drivers often ask questions like: what types of car insurance cover hit-and-run accidents? or does liability insurance protect against hit-and-run accidents?

To find out if you’re covered or not, let’s put things simply. Insurance coverage for hit-and-runs usually falls into two categories such as bodily injury and property damage. However, optional coverage like collision coverage also protects you if you encounter a hit and run.

1. Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to your vehicle, regardless of fault, after paying your deductible.
2. Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): This covers damage to your car if the at-fault driver is uninsured or unknown.
3. Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI): Covers medical expenses for injuries if the at-fault driver is uninsured or unknown.
4. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) / Medical Payments (MedPay): This covers medical expenses for you and your passengers. It’s particularly effective in no-fault-based states (e.g., Michigan).

Learn How Deductibles and Adjustments Work in Hit and Run

Deductibles are the amount you pay before insurance covers the rest. These vary depending on your policy and coverage type. 

Key Points to Know:

• Filing a claim under collision coverage means paying a deductible, even if you’re not at fault.
• Some policies waive deductibles for hit-and-runs if you have specific endorsements (Ask the insurer about Hit-and-Run Deductible Waiver).
• Your car insurance rate might increase after filing a claim, depending on your insurer and state laws.

Remember, to avoid claim denial, always make sure to notify both the police and your insurer within strict timeframes. 

Related Article: What to do after a car accident?

What Can You Do to Stop Hit-and-Run Accidents??

To stop hit-and-run accidents, people need to be careful and aware. Drivers and pedestrians can greatly reduce the risk of these kinds of accidents by taking simple steps. Using technology like dash cameras and encouraging people to drive safely can make the roads safer for everyone. We will discuss useful ways to prevent hit-and-run accidents in this part.

Safety Tips for Drivers and Pedestrians

Hit-and-run accident prevention begins with being mindful of safety. Drivers should always follow traffic laws, stay alert, avoid distractions like phones, and always stay sober. Pedestrians, on the other hand, must use crosswalks and remain visible to drivers, especially at night. 

Some important tips include:

• For Drivers: Maintain a safe speed, especially in residential areas or parking lots. Use turn signals and check blind spots before changing lanes.
• For Pedestrians: Make eye contact with drivers before crossing and avoid stepping into the street unexpectedly.

In fact, simple actions like these can prevent many accidents. Both drivers and pedestrians share the responsibility for ensuring safety on the roads. 

Utilize Dash Cameras and Surveillance

Dash cameras are powerful tools when it comes to preventing and resolving hit-and-run cases. By recording every drive, they provide evidence in case of an accident. 
Here’s how you can utilize dash cameras and surveillance:

• Record incidents, including license plates and driving behavior.
• Act as a deterrent since drivers are less likely to flee if they know cameras are present.

Also, businesses and homeowners can install external surveillance cameras. These systems can capture incidents in parking lots or near driveways. For example, footage from a nearby camera might identify a hit-and-run driver in a neighborhood. 

Let’s Promote Responsible Driving in Our Community

Start off educating yourself and the people around you about safer roads. Our communities can promote awareness about the consequences of hit-and-runs and encourage responsible behavior. 

Here are the steps you can consider:

• Organize local campaigns about safe driving practices.
• Advocate for stricter laws and penalties for hit-and-runs.
• Encourage drivers to carry adequate insurance to reduce panic during accidents.  

Things to Do After a Hit-and-Run Crash: The Bottom Line 

A hit-and-run is definitely a stressful event. But how you respond to it matters the most. You need to make sure first that everyone is safe. Check for injuries and call 911 right away. If you’re not hurt, collect evidence – take photos, speak to witnesses, and document what you remember about the fleeing vehicle. File a police report and contact the insurance provider without delay. Avoid chasing the driver or leaving the scene. Tools such as dash cameras and surveillance footage can be helpful as well. In essence, you need to stay focused and act quickly. Thus, you can protect your rights and make the recovery process faster. 

Frequently Asked Questions Related to Hit-and-Run

Will My Car Insurance Rate Increase After a Hit and Run?

Yes, your car insurance rate may increase after a hit-and-run accident. The extent of the increase depends on factors such as your insurer, state laws, and your driving record. On average, rates can rise by 20% to 50% but this is just a rough estimate. However, if you're convicted of a hit-and-run, the increase could be as high as 87%. 

What Percentage of Hit-and-Runs Are Solved?

Unfortunately, only a small percentage of hit-and-run accidents are solved. It's estimated that only 8% to 10% of hit-and-run cases are resolved. The low-resolution rate is often due to a lack of evidence and limited resources for investigating these cases. 

What If Someone Hits Your Car and Leaves a Note?

A note indicates the driver acknowledges responsibility. However, follow up carefully:

• Verify the Information: Contact the driver to confirm their identity and insurance details.
• Take Photos: Document the damage for your insurer.
• File a Police Report: Even with a note, reporting the accident ensures proper documentation.

What Happens If You’re Accused of a Hit-and-Run?

Being accused of a hit-and-run is serious. First, stay calm and do not panic or admit guilt immediately. Consult a lawyer to protect your rights. Gather evidence to prove your whereabouts during the alleged incident. Cooperate with authorities to clear your name. For instance, GPS data or surveillance footage showing your car elsewhere can serve as strong evidence of your innocence. 

What Should I Do If Someone Hits My Parked Car and Drives Away?

Document the scene, take photos, and report it to the police. Look for witnesses or nearby surveillance footage. Notify your insurance provider promptly. 

Can I Claim Insurance If Someone Hits My Car in a Parking Lot? 

Yes, if you have collision or uninsured motorist coverage. File a police report and provide evidence to support your claim. 

Should I Go for Car Insurance Settlement with the Hit-and-Run Driver?

You can consider settling with the at-fault hit-and-run driver if they are identified and cooperative. However, the approach depends on their willingness to take responsibility and the adequacy of their insurance coverage. Consult with your insurance provider, and if needed, get help from an auto insurance lawyer to assess whether settling directly is in your best interest. 

What Are the Consequences of a Hit-and-Run in California? 

In California, if you are involved in a hit-and-run that only causes property damage, it is considered a misdemeanor. You could face fines of up to $1,000 and up to six months in jail. However, if the accident results in injuries or death, it becomes a felony. This can lead to fines of up to $10,000 and up to four years in state prison. 

What Is the Hit-and-Run Law in Michigan?

If you’re in Michigan and involved in a hit-and-run, you and the other driver must stop and exchange information or someone must report the accident to law enforcement. Failing to do so can result in penalties ranging from 93 days in jail for property damage and if the accident causes any fatalities, you might end up facing up to 15 years in prison.

What Are the Consequences of a Hit-and-Run in Colorado? 

In Colorado, hit-and-run penalties depend on the damage. Property-only cases can result in fines and jail times up to 18 months. If the accident involves serious injury or death, it’s a felony with up to 12 years in prison and fines reaching $500,000. 

Can I Sue for Damages After a Hit and Run If the Driver Is Identified?

Yes, if the hit-and-run driver is located, you can file a civil lawsuit to recover damages for medical costs, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Punitive damages may also apply if the driver acted recklessly. However, in case the hit-and-run driver isn’t identified, you can file a claim under your uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage. The policies compensate for damages and medical expenses when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured. 

References:

1. Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST). (n.d.). https://cdan.dot.gov/query
2. NHTSA releases 2020 traffic crash data. (2022, March 2). NHTSA. https://www.nhtsa.gov/press-releases/2020-traffic-crash-data-fatalities
3. Ganti, A. (2024, June 29). Rational Choice Theory: what it is in economics, with examples. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/rational-choice-theory.asp
4. Benson, A.J., Arnold, L.S., Tefft, B.C., & Horrey, W.J. (2017). Hit-and-Run Crashes: Prevalence, Contributing Factors, and Countermeasures (Research Brief). Washington, D.C.: AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
5. Rajdev, A. (2023, August 2). What are the odds of solving a Hit-And-Run? Solution Now Law Firm. https://solutionnowlawfirm.com/blog/what-are-the-odds-of-solving-a-hit-and-run/