Will Police Investigate a Minor Hit and Run?
When you’re involved in a hit and run accident, regardless of the severity of the damage, it’s crucial to report the incident to the police immediately. You may be wondering if police will investigate a minor hit and run, and if so, what factors they consider when deciding whether to pursue an investigation.
Factors That Determine Police Investigation
The police investigation is typically triggered by the severity of the accident, injuries sustained, and the property damage involved. Here are some key factors that the police consider:
- Injuries or fatalities: If someone was injured or killed in the accident, the police will automatically investigate the incident to determine who was at fault and what actions to take.
- Property damage: While minor damage might not typically warrant an investigation, severe damage to vehicles, structures, or infrastructure may raise concerns and lead to a thorough investigation.
- Weather and road conditions: Poor weather or road conditions that contributed to the accident can influence the investigation’s direction.
- Suspect’s behavior: If the driver who left the scene is identified and there is evidence of intentional fleeing, the police may investigate and pursue charges.
- Witness statements: Statements from witnesses can help investigators reconstruct the accident and determine liability.
Do Minor Hit and Runs Go Unreported?
Yes, many minor hit and runs go unreported, but this doesn’t mean the incident doesn’t have consequences. If the accident was reported, it’s crucial to follow up with the police and file a report to document the incident. Failing to report a minor hit and run can have legal repercussions, as you may still be liable for any resulting damages or injuries.
Consequences of Failing to Report a Minor Hit and Run
- Criminal charges: Failure to report a hit and run can result in criminal charges, including hit-and-run, obstruction of justice, or insurance fraud.
- Financial penalties: You may face financial penalties, including increased insurance rates, fines, and possibly even legal fees.
- Reputation damage: A hit-and-run accident can damage your reputation and affect your relationships with insurance companies, potential employers, and others.
- Insurance implications: Unreported accidents can affect your insurance coverage and premium rates in the future.
Should You Report a Minor Hit and Run?
Regardless of the severity of the accident, it’s always a good idea to report the incident to the police and file a report. Reporting a minor hit and run can:
- Deter future incidents: Filing a report sends a message that you take accountability for your actions and helps prevent similar incidents in the future.
- Gather evidence: A report provides a formal record of the incident, which can be useful if the damage is later discovered or other parties become involved.
- Protect yourself: By reporting the incident, you can protect yourself from potential legal and financial repercussions that may arise if the incident is not reported.
What to Expect When Reporting a Minor Hit and Run
When reporting a minor hit and run, it’s essential to provide accurate and detailed information to the police. This includes:
- Description of the accident: Provide a detailed account of the accident, including the time, date, location, and details of the damage.
- Vehicle information: If you have the license plate number or other identifying details of the vehicle that was involved, share this information with the police.
- Witness statements: Collect statements from witnesses and share them with the police if possible.
- Evidence collection: Keep any relevant evidence, such as damaged property or vehicle parts, and turn it over to the police or store it safely.
Conclusion
While minor hit and runs may not typically warrant an immediate police investigation, it’s crucial to report the incident and provide accurate information to the authorities. Reporting a minor hit and run can help prevent future incidents, gather evidence, and protect yourself from potential legal and financial repercussions. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the police and follow the proper protocol for reporting a hit and run.
