How common are hit-and-run accidents?
In the U.S., a hit-and-run accident occurs every 43 seconds, which is relatively common. According to the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 737,100 hit-and-run accidents in 2015.
Of those, 138,500 resulted in injuries, and 1,819 resulted in fatalities. Sadly, hit-and-run fatalities increased in 2016 to 2,049.
How many hit-and-run accidents get solved?
Hit-and-runs are notoriously challenging to solve for obvious reasons — the at-fault driver has fled the scene. Drivers who flee the scene of an accident often do so to avoid responsibility for the accident or some other offense, such as:
- driving while intoxicated (DWI)
- uninsured status
- suspended or expired license
- arrest warrant
Only about 10% of hit-and-runs are solved due to several factors, including insufficient police resources and a lack of evidence. Accidents in which the driver flees the scene that result in injuries or fatalities are much more likely to gain the attention of a police investigation.
What is the most common type of hit-and-run?
A hit-and-run accident can occur anywhere at any time. If someone is motivated enough, nothing may stop them from running off and avoiding responsibility.
Statistics show that the most common type of hit-and-run accident is a parked car accident, either in a parking lot, driveway, or side street.
Which states have the most hit-and-run accidents?
Hit-and-run statistics find that these accidents are more common in some states than in others.
New Mexico, Louisiana, and Florida have the highest rate of fatal hit-and-run crashes.
Minnesota, New Hampshire, and Maine, on the other hand, have the lowest rates.
How will the police find the person who hit my car?
Hit-and-run accidents with no injuries may not be the top priority of your local police in Illinois. But when injuries or fatalities are involved, police might try the following tactics to find the person who hit your car.
Canvassing. Police might ask around the neighborhood to see if anyone saw the car drive by after the accident.
Eyewitnesses. Anyone who witnessed the accident or was part of the accident can be helpful in finding who hit your car and drove away.
Surveillance videos. Nearby traffic cameras, ring cameras, or other surveillance videos may have captured the accident or caught the hit-and-run driver.
Contact an Attorney After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Injured victims in a hit-and-run accident deserve compensation to help them get back to a normal life after an accident. Tracking down and holding a hit-and-run driver accountable for their actions is challenging, but having a skilled attorney in your corner can improve the odds of finding the driver and winning a settlement.
Settlement ranges for a hit-and-run vary but can be from $10,000 to up to $200,000, depending on severity. For a fair chance at receiving the compensation you or your loved one deserves, contact an experienced attorney at Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers.
Call (312) 600-6000 for a FREE case review and find out why thousands say… Larry wins!
