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When hit-and-run accidents happen, they often leave people shocked, upset, and uncertain about what to do next. These collisions are more than just frustrating; they’re dangerous and illegal. In Arizona, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious criminal offense that can prevent victims from getting the help or compensation they need.
At Jensen Phelan Law Firm, we work with victims throughout the state with offices in Tucson and Prescott navigating these difficult situations. We’ll explain your rights and the steps you can take to protect your future.
Always stop and return to the scene if you’re involved in a crash. Arizona law requires drivers to stay at or return to the scene of an accident. Leaving can result in criminal charges under A.R.S. § 28-662, which outlines a driver’s duty to remain at the scene after an injury-related crash. Following the proper steps is essential even if you’re not at fault.
If the other driver speeds off, don’t try to chase them. That can make things worse. Instead, pull over in a safe location and turn on your hazard lights. Check for injuries and call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt or there’s significant damage. Try to memorize or jot down any details you noticed, such as the fleeing vehicle’s color, make, direction of travel, or license plate. These notes could be crucial later.
You can report the crash by calling 911 or submitting an online report for non-emergencies. If there are injuries, damaged property, or if the scene feels unsafe, call 911 immediately. But if the collision is minor and no one is hurt, you may use the Arizona DPS online collision report tool or online forms provided by local law enforcement.
You’ll need an email address to file online. Once you submit the form, the Department of Public Safety or other law enforcement agencies will review it. If accepted, you’ll get a confirmation and police report number via email. That report number is often required when filing an insurance claim, so keep it handy.
Yes, you can file a claim, depending on your insurance coverage. If your policy includes uninsured motorist (UM) or collision coverage, you may be able to recover damages through your insurer. Since Arizona doesn’t require UM coverage, checking your policy is essential.
When filing, include the police report, photos of the damage, accident details, and any witness info. Some insurers have deadlines, so don’t delay. Good documentation helps speed up your claim.
The more evidence you can gather at the scene, the stronger your case will be. After a hit and run, your focus should be on collecting anything to help identify the other driver or support your insurance claim. Here’s what to prioritize:
If nearby businesses or homes have security cameras, they might have captured footage of the accident. Mention this when the police arrive so they can follow up. That kind of footage could make all the difference.
Get legal advice right away to ensure your rights are protected. Hit-and-run cases often involve criminal and civil elements, and things can move quickly.
Avoid making any public statements or social media posts about the accident. Even well-meaning comments can be twisted or misunderstood later. Instead, save any communication for your attorney, and let us handle the legal side while you focus on recovery.
Getting hit by a driver who flees the scene is devastating, but you don’t have to face it alone. Call Jensen Phelan Law Firm at (928) 778-2660 or (520) 344-7484 to speak with a car accident attorney who knows Arizona’s laws and how to help Arizona drivers recover after hit-and-run accidents.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Chris Jensen who has more than 30 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.