Speak With a Phoenix Hit-and-Run Accident Lawyer Today
Few experiences are more frustrating and traumatic than being injured in a car accident—only to watch the at-fault driver flee the scene. Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents are increasingly common in Phoenix, leaving victims with serious injuries, vehicle damage, and unanswered questions. When a driver disappears, recovering compensation becomes more complicated—but not impossible. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash involving a fleeing driver, working with an experienced Phoenix hit-and-run accident lawyer can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Farar & Lewis offers free consultations to hit-and-run victims throughout Phoenix. Our legal team understands the investigative and insurance challenges involved—and we are ready to fight for you.
Want to speak to someone about your case ? Call 800-615-6595
What Is Considered a Hit-and-Run in Arizona?
Under Arizona law, drivers involved in an accident are required to:
- Stop immediately at the scene
- Exchange contact and insurance information
- Provide reasonable assistance to injured parties
- Report the accident when required
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver leaves the scene without fulfilling these legal obligations. These cases may involve:
- Vehicle-to-vehicle collisions
- Pedestrian or cyclist crashes
- Property damage-only accidents
- Multi-vehicle freeway collisions
Leaving the scene of an injury accident is a serious criminal offense—but that does not automatically resolve the victim’s financial recovery.
Why Hit-and-Run Accidents Are So Dangerous
Hit-and-run crashes often result in delayed medical assistance and lack of accountability.
These accidents are especially dangerous because:
- Injured victims may not receive immediate aid
- Critical evidence may be lost
- Witnesses may disperse quickly
- Insurance disputes become more complicated
Victims are often left feeling powerless—but strong legal representation can change that.
Common Causes of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Phoenix
Drivers flee accident scenes for many reasons, including:
Driving Under the Influence
Impaired drivers often flee to avoid DUI charges.
Driving Without Insurance
Uninsured drivers may attempt to avoid financial liability.
Outstanding Warrants or Legal Issues
Drivers with suspended licenses or legal troubles may panic and leave.
Fear or Panic
Some drivers make reckless decisions in moments of fear.
Unfortunately, these choices leave innocent victims facing additional hardship.
Where Hit-and-Run Accidents Commonly Occur
In Phoenix, hit-and-run crashes frequently happen:
- On I-10, I-17, and Loop 202
- In parking lots and shopping centers
- At intersections
- In residential neighborhoods
- Late at night or early morning
Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable in these cases.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Hit-and-Run Accidents
Because fleeing drivers often act recklessly, injuries are frequently severe.
Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe neck and back injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Pedestrian crush injuries
- Wrongful death injuries
Victims may face extensive medical treatment and long recovery periods.
What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Taking immediate action can improve the chances of identifying the driver and securing compensation.
Steps to take include:
- Call 911 and request medical assistance.
- Provide police with as much detail as possible about the fleeing vehicle.
- Gather witness contact information.
- Photograph the scene and vehicle damage.
- Seek medical evaluation—even if injuries seem minor.
- Contact a Phoenix hit-and-run accident lawyer promptly.
Early investigation can be critical.
Recovering Compensation After a Hit-and-Run
Even if the at-fault driver is never identified, victims may still recover compensation through:
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
Arizona drivers can file claims under their own uninsured motorist coverage.
Underinsured Motorist (UIM) Coverage
If the at-fault driver is later identified but underinsured, UIM coverage may apply.
Civil Claims Against Identified Drivers
If the driver is located, a personal injury lawsuit may be filed.
Insurance companies may resist paying UM/UIM claims—making legal representation essential.
Proving a Hit-and-Run Claim
Strong evidence helps establish that a hit-and-run occurred and that injuries resulted from the crash.
Important evidence may include:
- Police accident reports
- Surveillance or traffic camera footage
- Witness statements
- Vehicle debris analysis
- Medical records
- Accident reconstruction expert testimony
A skilled attorney can also work with investigators to identify fleeing drivers.
Compensation Available to Hit-and-Run Victims
Victims may be entitled to compensation for:
Economic Damages
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospitalization and surgeries
- Long-term medical care
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
In fatal cases, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death damages.
Why Insurance Companies Fight Hit-and-Run Claims
Insurers often:
- Question whether a hit-and-run occurred
- Dispute injury severity
- Delay claim processing
- Offer low settlements under UM policies
An experienced Phoenix hit-and-run accident lawyer ensures your own insurance company treats you fairly.
How Farar & Lewis Handles Hit-and-Run Cases
At Farar & Lewis, we understand the emotional and financial toll of hit-and-run accidents. Our legal team aggressively pursues every available avenue of recovery.
We focus on:
- Conducting independent investigations
- Identifying fleeing drivers when possible
- Navigating UM/UIM insurance claims
- Preserving evidence
- Accurately calculating damages
- Negotiating assertively with insurers
- Taking cases to trial when necessary
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
Arizona’s Statute of Limitations for Hit-and-Run Accidents
Most personal injury claims in Arizona must be filed within two years of the accident date. UM/UIM insurance claims may involve additional deadlines.
Prompt legal action helps preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Call Farar & Lewis After a Hit-and-Run Accident in Phoenix
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, do not assume you are without options.
Contact Farar & Lewis today for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Phoenix hit-and-run accident lawyer. We are ready to fight for your rights and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Sources
- Arizona Revised Statutes – Duty to Stop After an Accident
https://www.azleg.gov - National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – Hit-and-Run Crash Data
https://www.nhtsa.gov - Insurance Information Institute – Uninsured Motorist Coverage Overview
https://www.iii.org
