In short: Yes, leaving the scene of an accident in Missouri is considered a crime. The severity of the offense depends on the extent of property damage, bodily injury, or fatalities involved.
Drivers who fail to stop and provide information or aid after a vehicle collision may face misdemeanor or felony charges, along with possible driver’s license suspension and civil liability.
If you were injured in an accident where the other driver fled the scene, a hit-and-run accident lawyer in Kansas City can help protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
The Gravity of Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Leaving the scene is treated as both a traffic and criminal offense, depending on the damage caused. Penalties vary according to the outcome of the accident and can have serious, lasting effects on a driver’s record and personal life.
Misdemeanor Vs Felony Offenses
Missouri law distinguishes between misdemeanor and felony hit-and-run offenses based on the severity of the crash and the harm caused to others.
When only property damage occurs and no one is injured, the case is treated as a Class A misdemeanor, which can result in up to one year in county jail, fines, and a temporary license suspension.
When the collision results in bodily injury, serious harm, or death, the offense becomes a Class D or Class E felony, carrying several years of imprisonment, a permanent criminal record, and the loss of driving privileges.
Actions That Qualify as “Leaving the Scene”
Drivers commit “leaving the scene of an accident” when they fail to stop after being involved in a collision that causes injury, death, or property damage. Even minor fender-benders require exchanging information and reporting the incident when necessary.
Common actions that qualify include:
- Driving away after hitting another vehicle, pedestrian, or bicyclist
- Leaving without providing a driver’s license number, vehicle registration number, or insurance information
- Failing to report the incident to law enforcement when the other party is not present or when the damage is significant
Drivers who panic and leave may later face serious consequences. Law enforcement often uses witness statements, traffic cameras, and vehicle data to identify drivers who flee the scene.
Contact our Kansas city personal injury lawyers now.
Consequences for the Victims
Victims of hit-and-run accidents often face a combination of physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. Beyond the pain of recovery, they may struggle with unpaid medical bills, vehicle repairs, and lost wages from time away from work.
The physical consequences can range from whiplash and broken bones to life-altering conditions such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord damage.
Common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Broken bones and fractures
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Cuts and bruises
- Soft tissue injuries
Many victims require ongoing therapy and rehabilitation.
Who Pays When the Other Driver Runs Away?
When a hit-and-run driver cannot be identified right away, victims still have options for recovering their losses. One of the primary sources of coverage is Uninsured Motorist protection, which is included in many Missouri auto insurance policies.
If law enforcement later identifies the at-fault driver, victims may pursue a personal injury claim against them for additional compensation related to pain and suffering, ongoing medical care, and long-term financial losses.
Acting quickly and working with a qualified personal injury attorney helps victims protect their rights, gather strong evidence, and hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions if they can be found.
Immediate Actions When the At-Fault Driver Runs
If another driver flees the scene, knowing what to do after a hit-and-run accident can help law enforcement locate them and strengthen your potential insurance claim.
Take these steps as soon as possible:
- Stay calm and ensure safety. Move your vehicle to a safe area.
- Call the police and request an accident report.
- Document the scene with photos or videos, capturing damage and nearby traffic control devices.
- Collect witness contact information if available.
- Notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run, providing the police report reference.
In some cases, your Uninsured Motorist coverage may help cover damages when the fleeing driver is never found. Keeping detailed evidence can make the claim process smoother.
A Hit and Run Lawyer Can Answer Your Questions
Facing the aftermath of a hit-and-run can be overwhelming, especially when you get injured and aren’t sure how to pursue compensation without the other party’s insurance information.
A hit-and-run accident attorney in Missouri can review the facts, communicate with insurance companies, and guide you through the legal system.
The team at Foster Wallace Personal Injury Lawyers values open communication, trust, and accessibility. Our team focuses on helping clients feel supported and informed throughout every stage of their case. Client testimonials highlight the dedication and care offered to those affected by hit-and-run accidents.
Drivers should not face the consequences of a traffic violation or hit-and-run alone. Contacting a qualified attorney can help you recover compensation after another driver hits you and flees the scene.
Schedule a free consultation today.
