Role of Eyewitnesses in Hit-and-Run Cases

Car accidents can be chaotic and upsetting. If a driver flees the scene of an accident, it may take a few moments to realize what is happening, and by then, it’s too late to do much about it.

In hit-and-run cases, eyewitnesses can play a critical role in identifying the fleeing driver, providing details to law enforcement and your Phoenix car accident attorney, and helping to prove liability when building a case to recover damages after a hit-and-run.

You’re Not Alone

Unfortunately, drivers flee the scenes of accidents more often than you think. A recent report by the Arizona Department of Transportation found that in-state hit-and-runs accounted for one in eight motor vehicle crashes, 7% of all traffic fatalities, and 2,079 pedestrian crashes, a 35% increase between 2020 and 2025.

The solve rate of hit-and-runs also varies depending on the severity of the injuries. A study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that around 50% of hit-and-run drivers in fatal crashes were identified, but only about 10% to 15% of hit-and-run drivers were found in accidents that only involved property damage.

How Eyewitnesses Help Hit-and-Run Claims

How Eyewitnesses Help

Witness statements need to be taken as soon as possible after an accident, before their memories fade and evidence is lost. The best witnesses are those who were bystanders and not involved in the accident; they tend to be the most objective because they usually have a clearer view of the accident than someone who was in a vehicle.

An eyewitness account of an accident can be made even stronger if it matches the evidence collected at the scene, especially if there is no video to support the versions of events given by the drivers. Witnesses may remember details that can help the police identify and locate the driver, determine liability, and refute false claims being made by others. These details can include:

• The make, model, and color of the vehicle
• License plate numbers
• The age, gender, and facial features of the driver
• Accident details such as speed or erratic driving

Let Us Take the Reins

If you are able, take photos and videos, collect contact information from witnesses, follow evidence collection tips for a hit-and-run, and document as much of the accident as possible. Seeking legal advice from a personal injury attorney at Gage Mathers Law Group can also make a world of difference.

We have collected more than $325 million for our clients, and you won’t pay a dime for our services unless we win your case. Call Gage Mathers today for a free consultation and to learn more about how we can help you get the compensation you deserve.

About the Author

Joseph D'Aguanno

Guided by the belief that being a highly skilled specialist in a narrow field is better than being ordinary in everything, Joseph “JD” D’Aguanno leads Arizona’s best personal injury law firm in Phoenix, AZ. Having extensive cross-training in pre-litigation negotiations and trial lawyer skills, with decades of experience, JD strives to provide clients with the most valuable legal services a personal injury lawyer can provide. Under his direction, Gage Mathers Law Group is an award-winning personal injury law firm providing aggressive representation to victims of a car accident, medical malpractice, dog bite, motorcycle accident, and other injurious events. Gage Mathers is trusted by thousands of lawyers and clients throughout the country because of their reputation for getting clients the maximum compensation they deserve.

Years of experience: Over 24 years
Bar number: 020421
Location: Phoenix, AZ
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