Hit-and-Run Accidents in Florida

Hit-and-Run in Florida: The Numbers

• Florida averages over 100,000 hit-and-run crashes annually
• Approximately 25% of all Florida traffic crashes involve a hit-and-run
• Hit-and-run fatalities in Florida exceed 250 deaths per year
• Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties have the highest hit-and-run rates
• Pedestrians and cyclists are disproportionately affected

Drivers flee accident scenes for many reasons: lack of insurance, suspended license, outstanding warrants, impairment, fear, and immigration concerns.

Criminal Penalties for Fleeing the Scene

Florida imposes severe criminal penalties for leaving the scene of an accident under Florida Statutes § 316.027 and § 316.061:

Additionally, a mandatory minimum sentence of 4 years in prison applies when a hit-and-run results in death. The driver's license is also revoked for at least 3 years.

Florida's Legal Duty to Stop

Under Florida law, any driver involved in a crash that results in injury, death, or property damage must:

• Stop immediately at the scene or as close as safely possible
• Provide their name, address, vehicle registration, and insurance information
• Render reasonable aid to any injured person — including calling 911 or transporting them to a hospital if needed
• Remain at the scene until these duties are fulfilled

Insurance Options for Hit-and-Run Victims

When the at-fault driver flees and cannot be identified, victims must rely on their own insurance coverage:

• PIP (Personal Injury Protection): Your own PIP insurance covers up to $10,000 in medical expenses and lost wages regardless of fault. You must seek treatment within 14 days.
• Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage: This is the most important coverage for hit-and-run victims. UM coverage treats a hit-and-run driver as an uninsured driver. See our uninsured driver claims guide.
• MedPay (Medical Payments): If you carry MedPay, it provides additional coverage for medical expenses regardless of fault.
• Collision coverage: Covers damage to your vehicle in a hit-and-run, minus your deductible.

Identifying the Hit-and-Run Driver

If the driver can be identified, you can file a claim against their insurance and potentially pursue a lawsuit. Methods used to identify fleeing drivers include:

• Surveillance cameras: Traffic cameras, business security cameras, and residential doorbell cameras in the area
• Witness descriptions: License plate numbers (even partial), vehicle make/model/color, and driver descriptions
• Paint transfer and debris: Physical evidence left at the scene can identify the vehicle make, model, and year
• Vehicle damage: Body shops may report vehicles brought in with suspicious damage
• Social media and tips: Community awareness campaigns and tip lines
• Law enforcement investigation: Police can run partial plates, check local cameras, and canvass the area

Evidence in Hit-and-Run Cases

• Dashcam footage: Your own dashcam is invaluable — it may capture the fleeing vehicle's plate, make, and driver
• 911 call recording: Your immediate report establishes the timeline and your description of the vehicle
• Scene photos: Damage to your vehicle, debris, tire marks, and any paint transfer
• Witness contact information: Get names and numbers of anyone who saw the accident or the fleeing vehicle
• Medical records: Documenting injuries immediately connects them to the accident
• Police report: File a report immediately — this is often required by your own insurance company to process a UM claim

Potential Compensation

Compensation in hit-and-run cases depends on whether the driver is identified and what insurance coverage is available:

The statute of limitations still applies — you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit, even in hit-and-run cases.

What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run

• Do NOT chase the fleeing driver. This is dangerous and can complicate your claim.
• Call 911 immediately. Report the accident and provide as much detail as possible about the fleeing vehicle.
• Write down everything you remember — vehicle color, make, model, license plate (even partial), direction of travel, number of occupants.
• Look for witnesses and get their contact information.
• Check for surveillance cameras on nearby businesses, traffic lights, or homes.
• Seek medical attention within 14 days for PIP coverage.
• Notify your insurance company promptly to initiate your UM and collision claims.
• Contact a Florida attorney experienced in hit-and-run cases to maximize your recovery options.

Frequently Asked Questions