What To Do If You Are Involved in a Hit-And-Run Accident

Understanding Hit-and-Run Incidents

A hit and run accident can be one of the most stressful and confusing experiences on the road. When a driver flees the scene after causing a collision, it leaves the victim facing injuries, property damage, and uncertainty. Knowing what to do in a hit and run can help you stay calm and take the right steps. At Big Chad Law, we assist victims through the complexities of these challenging cases and ensure their rights are protected.

The Hit-and-Run Definition in Law

Under personal injury law, a hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves without identifying themselves or aiding anyone injured. According to hit-and-run definition law, failing to stay at the scene can lead to criminal charges and heavy penalties. Understanding these legal foundations is crucial for anyone impacted by hit-and-runs.

In Arizona, leaving the scene of an accident is classified as a felony if injuries are involved. Drivers are legally obligated to remain at the scene, exchange information, and assist injured parties. When they don’t, it can create complex legal and insurance challenges.

Immediate Actions After a Hit and Run Accident

Taking the correct steps immediately after a hit and run accident can significantly strengthen your claim:

1. Ensure Safety First
   Move your vehicle to a secure location. Check for injuries and provide first aid if necessary.
2. Call 911
   Notify the police. An official police report is vital for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
3. Gather Information
   Try to recall and record the fleeing vehicle’s make, model, colour, and any licence plate numbers.
4. Look for Witnesses
   Eyewitness accounts can significantly impact the investigation. Collect names and contact details.
5. Document the Scene
   Take detailed photographs of your vehicle, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
6. Seek Medical Attention
   Even if injuries are not obvious, a medical evaluation is crucial to document any trauma.
7. Notify Your Insurance Company
   Contact your insurer to report the hit and run. Most policies cover hit-and-runs through uninsured motorist protection.
8. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
   Legal counsel will guide you on what to do with a hit-and-run claim and help protect your interests.

Can You Sue for a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Many victims wonder, can you sue for a hit-and-run? The answer is yes. If authorities identify the driver, you can file a personal injury lawsuit for damages like the following:

• Medical expenses
• Vehicle repairs
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

If the driver remains unidentified, uninsured motorist coverage can still provide financial relief. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you explore all potential compensation avenues.

Challenges Victims Face After Hit-and-Runs

Victims often face unique challenges:

• Locating the Offender
• Limited or Unreliable Witnesses
• Insurance Delays and Denials
• Physical and Emotional Strain

Knowing what to do in a hit and run early on ensures you’re better prepared to address these hurdles. Investigations can be time-sensitive, so acting quickly increases your chances of success.

Managing a Hit and Run Accident Claim

Handling a claim properly is essential for a successful outcome:

Following this approach ensures that what to do with a hit and run becomes clearer and more manageable.

Potential Compensation in Hit-and-Run Cases

Victims of hit-and-run accidents may qualify for various forms of compensation, including:

Having a seasoned attorney maximizes your claim’s potential by properly calculating these damages.

How Big Chad Law Supports Hit-and-Run Victims

Big Chad Law provides comprehensive support for victims:

• Investigating the incident thoroughly
• Collaborating with forensic experts
• Negotiating assertively with insurance companies
• Taking cases to court when necessary

Our team has extensive experience in managing hit-and-run cases and advocating for complete compensation.

Tips for Reducing Your Risk of Hit-and-Run Accidents

While not every incident is avoidable, taking precautionary measures can help:

• Drive attentively and avoid distractions
• Stick to well-lit, populated roads
• Use dashcams to capture footage
• Keep a safe distance from aggressive drivers
• Stay vigilant during late-night or low-traffic hours

Adopting these habits can lower your chances of involvement in hit-and-runs.

Why Choose Big Chad Law for Your Case

Selecting Big Chad Law means choosing dedication and experience:

• Proven success in personal injury law
• Personalized client service
• Relentless pursuit of justice
• No upfront fees; we get paid only if you win

Our commitment is to ensure victims of hit and run accidents receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

Secure Your Rights After a Hit and Run Accident

If you are a victim of a hit-and-run accident, act swiftly. Contact Big Chad Law for a free consultation. Learn more about what to do in a hit and run and how our team can help you pursue the justice you are entitled to. RN, what to do in a hit-and-run and how we can assist you in recovering the compensation you deserve.

FAQ 

What should I do immediately after a hit-and-run in Arizona?

Please contact 911, remain at or return to the scene, and provide assistance—and then report the crash and document all details. Arizona law requires immediate notice to law enforcement for crashes with injury/death (A.R.S. 28-666) and imposes duties to give information and render reasonable assistance (A.R.S. 28-663). Gather plate/vehicle details, witness info, and photos, and then notify your insurer.
Key takeaway: Report fast + document well—it protects safety, your claim, and legal compliance.

Is leaving the scene a felony in Arizona?

Yes—if anyone is injured or killed. Leaving after an injury/death crash violates A.R.S. 28-661 (felony; penalties increase if the driver caused the crash). Property-damage-only crashes are covered by A.R.S. 28-662 (misdemeanour).
Key takeaway: Injury/death = felony; property-damage only = misdemeanour—don’t leave the scene.

Can I get compensated if the hit-and-run driver is never found?

Usually yes—through your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. Arizona treats an unidentified (hit-and-run or even “miss-and-run”) vehicle as an uninsured motor vehicle for UM claims; no physical contact is required. See Lowing v. Allstate (Ariz. 1993) and the state insurance department’s UM/UIM guidance.
Key takeaway: If the driver isn’t found, UM can cover injuries; check your policy limits.

Do I need a police report to make a hit-and-run claim?

You should—insurers often require prompt police reporting for UM claims, and AZ law requires immediate notice for injury/death crashes. Policies commonly demand notice “as soon as possible” (often 24–72 hours) and a police report to validate a hit-and-run; confirm your policy terms. azleg.gov+2Hutzler Law+2
Key takeaway: File a police report and notify your insurer quickly—it’s both smart and often required.

How long do I have to file an injury lawsuit after a hit-and-run in Arizona?

Generally 2 years from the injury date (A.R.S. § 12-542). Don’t let settlement talks drift past this deadline.
Key takeaway: Two-year clock—calendared from the injury date.