Call

Hit & Run in Salt Lake City

Hit & Run in Salt Lake CityA hit-and-run accident can leave victims feeling shocked, confused, and overwhelmed. One moment you’re driving, biking, or walking peacefully through Salt Lake City, and the next you’re injured by a driver who flees the scene without offering help or providing information. These reckless actions are not only morally wrong, but they are also illegal under Utah law.

At RamRock Injury Lawyers, we understand how devastating these situations can be. Our team helps victims pursue justice and financial recovery after a hit-and-run accident. Whether the driver is identified or remains unknown, we can help you explore your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call (385) 412-1927 for a free consultation today.

What Qualifies as a Hit & Run in Salt Lake City?

What Qualifies as a Hit & Run in Salt Lake City?Under Utah Code § 41-6a-401, any driver involved in an accident that results in injury, death, or property damage must stop as close to the scene as possible without obstructing traffic. They are required to provide their name, address, vehicle registration number, and insurance information to the other party. If anyone is injured, the driver must also call for emergency medical assistance.

A hit and run occurs when a driver fails to stop or provide information. The seriousness of the offense depends on the outcome of the crash:

  • Property damage only: Classified as a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
  • Injury accident: Elevated to a Class A misdemeanor, which may result in jail time and a suspended driver’s license.
  • Serious injury or death: Considered a third-degree felony, carrying up to five years in prison and steep fines.

These penalties reflect the state’s strong stance against abandoning accident victims.

Common Causes of Hit & Run Accidents in Utah

Salt Lake City’s busy roads, such as State Street, 700 East, and I-15, see thousands of vehicles daily. Some drivers make split-second decisions to flee rather than face the consequences. Common reasons for hit-and-run behavior include:

  • Driving without insurance or a valid license
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Fear of arrest or outstanding warrants
  • Distracted or reckless driving
  • Lack of awareness that an impact occurred

Unfortunately, these choices often leave innocent victims struggling with injuries, property loss, and unanswered questions.

Steps to Take After a Hit & Run Accident

Even though the at-fault driver may have fled, there are several steps you can take to protect your health, your finances, and your rights:

Call 911 Immediately

Contact law enforcement right away. A prompt police report ensures the crash is documented and can help launch an investigation.

Gather Evidence

If possible, write down any details you remember about the fleeing vehicle, including the make, model, color, or license plate digits. Take photos of the scene, damage, and any debris left behind.

Identify Witnesses and Surveillance

Ask nearby witnesses for their contact information. Businesses or traffic cameras near downtown or Sugar House may have captured valuable footage.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Utah requires drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage. If the other driver cannot be identified, your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may compensate you for your injuries and vehicle damage.

Contact RamRock Injury Lawyers

Our legal team can help you gather evidence, coordinate with police investigators, and handle all communication with insurance companies. We’ll work to recover the compensation you’re entitled to, whether through your own insurance or once the at-fault driver is found.

How Police Investigate Hit & Run Cases

Law enforcement agencies in Salt Lake City use modern investigative techniques to track down hit-and-run drivers. Officers often review traffic and security camera footage to identify vehicles and gather visual evidence of the incident. They also analyze debris or paint chips collected at the scene, which can help determine the make, model, or color of the vehicle involved. In some cases, investigators work with partial license plate information to narrow down potential suspects.

Police interview witnesses and canvass nearby neighborhoods to uncover additional leads or statements that can corroborate the details of the crash. They may also partner with local auto repair shops to locate vehicles brought in with suspicious damage consistent with the accident. Although the process can take time, these combined efforts frequently lead to arrests and criminal charges, giving victims a stronger chance to obtain justice and restitution.

Recovering Compensation After a Hit & Run

Victims of hit-and-run accidents can often recover compensation through their own insurance policies. Depending on your coverage, you may be eligible for:

  • Medical expenses: Emergency care, hospital bills, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
  • Lost income: Wages missed while recovering and reduced earning capacity.
  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
  • Vehicle damage: Costs to repair or replace your car.
  • Punitive damages: If the driver is later found, and their conduct was egregious.

If your insurer refuses to pay a fair settlement, RamRock Injury Lawyers can step in to negotiate or file a lawsuit on your behalf.

What Happens if the Driver Is Found Later?

If law enforcement locates the hit-and-run driver, you gain additional legal options. Your Salt Lake hit-and-run attorney can file a claim directly against the driver or their insurer to pursue full damages. You may also be able to seek restitution through the criminal process.

Utah’s statute of limitations typically allows four years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, time limits can vary if government vehicles are involved or other unique factors apply. Acting promptly protects your claim and ensures important evidence isn’t lost.

How RamRock Injury Lawyers Can Help

After a hit-and-run, you may be dealing with pain, anxiety, and mounting expenses. At RamRock Injury Lawyers, we handle every aspect of your claim, from investigating the crash and identifying potential defendants to negotiating with insurers and filing lawsuits when necessary.

Our firm has built its reputation on helping injured Utah residents rebuild their lives after devastating accidents. We know the tactics insurance companies use to deny or reduce claims, and we are committed to standing up for your rights.

We offer:

  • Free, no-obligation consultations;
  • Contingency-fee representation (you don’t pay unless we win); and
  • Compassionate, client-focused service from start to finish.

Were You Involved in a Hit-and-Run Accident? Contact RamRock Injury Lawyers Today

If you or someone you love has been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Salt Lake City, don’t wait to get legal help. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. Our team will investigate every lead, handle the paperwork, and fight for full and fair compensation.

Call (385) 412-1927 today or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. Let RamRock Injury Lawyers help you pursue justice and rebuild after a hit-and-run accident.

An Efficient Pathway to

Case Resolution

Case Setion Background
Case Setion Background
Case Setion Background
Strong Representation, Stronger Results.
ftr-map-img

RamRock Injury Lawyers: Arizona Personal Injury Attorneys

If you’ve been injured in Arizona, you don’t have to go through this alone. The team at RamRock Injury Lawyers is ready to fight for your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at 866-953-2330 to schedule a free case evaluation.

Get a Free
Case Evaluation

Fields Marked With An “*” Are Required
Disclaimer: The use of the internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.
checkbox(Required)