Definitions and Plans of Action
Hit-and-runs are more common than many drivers realize. These types of crashes can leave victims confused, injured or worse. On the other hand, drivers face heavy legal consequences. Understanding what a hit-and-run is and how to respond can help you stay prepared and protected. This article breaks down everything you need to know.
What Counts as a Hit-and-Run?
Nearly one out of every four pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in 2022 was hit by a hit-and-run driver. That is about 24% of pedestrian fatalities. A hit-and-run happens when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to share their information or help the victim. It can involve:
- Hitting another car and driving away
- Damaging property such as mailboxes, fences or parked cars
- Striking a pedestrian, cyclist or motorcyclist
Legal Penalties for Hit-and-Runs
Not every hit-and-run accident is the same. The consequences depend on the severity of the crash:
- Property damage only: Misdemeanor charges, fines, points on your license, and possible license suspension
- Injury or death: Felony charges, large fines, prison sentences, and permanent license revocation.
Why Drivers Flee the Scene
People often wonder why a driver would flee instead of stopping after an accident. The reasons can differ, but some of the most common include:
- Fear of arrest or DUI charges
- Driving without a license or insurance
- Panic and poor judgment in the moment
- Having a prior criminal history
- Outstanding warrants.
What to Do if You’re the Victim
Being the victim of a hit-and-run is overwhelming and confusing. In such situations, staying calm makes a big difference. Your first step is to move to a safe location and call 911. Reporting the accident right away ensures that emergency help arrives quickly if you or anyone else is injured. While waiting, try to gather as many details as you can about the vehicle that fled, including the:
- Make
- Model
- Color
- Nearby camera or CCTV footage
- License plate number, if possible.
Witnesses can be a valuable source of information, so speak with bystanders and collect their contact details. Document the scene by taking photos of your injuries, the damage to your car and the surrounding area. Some states require filing a police report, even for small crashes, so that’s something to keep in mind as well.
Next, notify your insurance company. Many policies include uninsured motorist coverage that can apply in these cases. Once that’s done, your next step is to seek hit-and-run legal representation to build your case. Acting fast and carefully increases your chances of finding the driver and receiving the compensation you deserve.
Preventing Hit-and-Runs
Drivers can’t control other people’s actions, but you can reduce your own risk:
- Park in well-lit, busy areas to deter vandals or careless drivers
- Install a dashcam to record evidence in case of an incident
- Stay alert on the road, especially near intersections and crosswalks
- Always carry a valid insurance and license
Endnote
Hit-and-runs leave behind more than damaged vehicles and broken laws. They cause lasting harm to victims and create serious legal problems for drivers who fail to take responsibility. However, not every hit-and-run happens due to malicious or selfish intentions. Most drivers aren’t even aware that they’ve become part of such a crash.
Knowing what counts as a hit-and-run, the penalties involved and the steps to take can make a real difference in how you handle such a stressful situation. By staying alert, following the rules of the road and being prepared to act responsibly, drivers and pedestrians alike can help reduce the toll these incidents take on communities.
The post The Driver’s Guide to Understanding Hit-and-Runs first appeared on Clean Fleet Report.
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Author Patricia Lee
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