Hit-and-run fatalities often occur late at night or in the early morning hours, when it is dark and witnesses are less likely to be present. Designed by Freepik

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - Hit-and-run crashes are becoming more common, according to new research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (AAAFTS). The research finds that 15% of all police-reported crashes in 2023 involved a driver who fled the scene, the highest percentage recorded in any recent year. In California of the 28,489 fatal accidents between 2017 and 2023, 10.5% involved a hit and run. 

The research reveals a growing crisis on America’s roads, one that leaves injured people alone, without help and too often without accountability.  

Tragically, 15 roadside service providers were struck and killed at the roadside last year, based on AAA’s tracking of reported roadside worker fatalities. At least six of those 15 were killed by a driver who fled the scene. 

“Roadside safety starts with all of us and AAA is committed to protecting everyone who works or waits at the roadside,” said Doug Johnson, spokesperson with AAA Mountain West Group. “These are people with families who should make it home at the end of their shift, hit-and-run drivers can take that chance away. Drivers have the power to protect them. Slow down, move over and stay alert when you see flashing lights or any vehicle stopped at the roadside.”

Notable findings from the study include the following.

Hit-and-run fatalities often occur late at night or in the early morning hours, when it is dark and witnesses are less likely to be present.

Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable. One in four pedestrians and nearly as many cyclists killed in crashes in 2023 were hit by a driver who fled the scene.

Among known hit-and-run drivers in fatal crashes, 40% did not have a valid driver’s license and more than half were driving vehicles not registered in their name.

The majority of identified hit-and-run drivers were young, male and crashed within a short distance of their homes.

Research suggests drivers are less likely to flee when they believe they will be caught, pointing to the potential impact of traffic cameras and “Yellow Alerts” that notify and seek information from the public after serious or fatal hit-and-run crashes.

AAA Foundation recommends the following solutions to save lives.  Automatic crash notifications through vehicles and smartphones, safer road designs that protect pedestrians and cyclists and accountability measures - including clear legal consequences and consistent reinforcement- that make fleeing the scene less likely.

“Bringing down the number of hit-and-run crashes will take a multi-pronged approach,” said Johnson, “Stronger enforcement, smarter use of technology and public education can work together to change behavior.” 

About the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, publicly supported charitable research and education organization. It was founded in 1947 by the American Automobile Association to conduct research to address growing highway safety issues. The organization’s mission is to identify traffic safety problems, foster research that seeks solutions and disseminate information and educational materials. AAA Foundation funding comes from voluntary, tax-deductible contributions from motor clubs associated with the American Automobile Association and the Canadian Automobile Association, individual AAA club members, insurance companies and other individuals or groups.  

About AAA Mountain West Group

AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization, proudly serving over 6.8 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Montana, Nevada, Northern California, Utah and Wyoming. Named one of Forbes’ Most Trusted Companies in America, AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial and home security services. Powered by 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.