Does Liability Insurance Cover a Hit-and-Run Accident?

The shock of being involved in a car crash is difficult enough, but when the at-fault driver speeds away, victims are left feeling vulnerable and unsure of what steps to take next. Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents happen far too often in Georgia and the consequences for victims can be serious, both physically and financially.

Understanding what Georgia law says about hit-and-run crashes, what to do immediately afterward, and how to pursue compensation, especially when the driver isn’t found, can help protect your rights during an overwhelming time.

What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?

A hit-and-run takes place when a driver involved in an accident fails to stop at the scene. The law is clear: leaving without providing contact information or offering help is a criminal offense in Georgia. Under Georgia Code § 40-6-270, every driver involved in a crash is legally required to stop, share their name, address and vehicle registration number and render aid to anyone who is injured. That can include calling 911, helping an injured person out of immediate danger or taking reasonable steps to request medical help.

Failing to do so is not only irresponsible – it’s illegal.

The penalties vary based on the severity of the crash:

• Misdemeanor (no serious injury or death): fines of $300–$1,000, up to 12 months in jail or both.
• Felony (serious injury or death): imprisonment for one to five years.

Georgia also imposes a mandatory one-year license suspension for a first offense, though drivers may apply for early reinstatement after four months if they complete a defensive driving course or risk reduction program and pay a reinstatement fee.

These penalties reflect how seriously the state views hit-and-run incidents and how strongly the law supports injured victims.

Hit-and-Run Trends in Georgia

Hit-and-run crashes aren’t rare. Georgia has consistently ranked among the states with concerning numbers of these incidents. In 2016, the state had 72 fatal hit-and-run crashes, placing it fourth in the country. More recently, pedestrian deaths have risen sharply. In 2022, Georgia recorded 345 pedestrian fatalities, a 12-percent increase from the previous year. Many of those involved hit-and-run drivers.

These numbers highlight a troubling reality: fleeing the scene has become far too common, especially in pedestrian and nighttime crashes. For injured victims, this often means delayed medical help and more complicated insurance claims.

Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident

Knowing what to do in the moments after a hit-and-run can make a major difference in both your physical recovery and your ability to secure compensation later.

1. Stay at the Scene

Do not pursue the fleeing driver. Chasing them can put you in greater danger and may make the situation worse. Stay put and focus on your own safety.

2. Call 911 Immediately

Report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if you feel okay, adrenaline can mask injuries.

3. Document the Scene

Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, debris, surrounding traffic signals and anything else that may be relevant. Write down every detail you remember, including the direction the driver fled, their vehicle type, color or any portion of the license plate you saw.

4. Talk to Witnesses

Eyewitnesses are often the key to identifying a hit-and-run driver. Get their phone numbers and any details they can provide.

5. Seek Medical Evaluation

Soft tissue injuries, concussions and internal injuries may not show symptoms immediately. A medical record created soon after the crash also strengthens any insurance or legal claim.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the incident as soon as possible. Insurance companies require prompt notice, especially when the at-fault driver is unknown.

What if the At-Fault Driver Is Never Found?

Many hit-and-run drivers are eventually located through surveillance footage, eyewitness accounts, license plate recognition cameras or police investigation. But sometimes the driver is never identified. That does not mean you have no options.

In Georgia, your own uninsured motorist (UM) coverage steps in when the other driver can’t be found. UM coverage can help with:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Future medical needs
• Damage to your vehicle (depending on your policy)

Many people don’t realize how important UM coverage is until they need it. In hit-and-run cases, it often becomes the primary or only source of compensation.

Insurance companies, however, may still attempt to limit payouts or question the details of the crash. That’s why having legal support can make a significant difference.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Hit-and-run claims are often more complex than standard car accident cases. Police investigations may take time, evidence may be limited and insurance companies may push back because the at-fault driver isn’t available to question.

A personal injury attorney experienced with Georgia hit-and-run cases can help:

• Investigate thoroughly, including gathering video footage, interviewing witnesses and working with accident reconstruction experts.
• Communicate with insurance companies so you don’t face pressure or lowball settlement offers.
• Pursue all available avenues of compensation, including UM coverage, MedPay, or claims based on additional evidence that may emerge later.
• Represent you in negotiations or court, ensuring your rights stay protected at every step.

You shouldn’t have to navigate this stressful situation alone, especially while recovering from injuries.

If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Georgia, the attorneys at Farrar, Hennesy & Tanner are ready to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call 912-384-2287 or request a free case review online today.