Hit-and-run crashes are frightening, frustrating, and all too common in Florida. Whether the driver fled the scene out of fear, intoxication, or recklessness, the consequences for victims can be devastating — physical injuries, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and long-term trauma.

But here’s the important truth:
Even if the at-fault driver is never found, hit-and-run victims in Florida can still recover compensation.

What Is Considered a Hit-and-Run in Florida?

Under Florida Statute §316.061 and §316.027, a hit-and-run occurs anytime a driver leaves the scene of an accident without providing:

• Identification
• Contact information
• Reasonable assistance
• Reporting the crash when required

This applies to:
• Car vs. car crashes
• Motorcycle collisions
• Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
• Golf cart and e-bike accidents
• Property-damage crashes

Do You Need to Identify the Other Driver to Recover Money?

No.
Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) provides benefits regardless of who caused the accident.

And if you carry Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, you can recover as if the at-fault driver had stayed at the scene and had insurance.

Compensation You Can Still Recover After a Hit-and-Run

1. PIP Benefits (Automatically Available)

Every Florida driver is required to carry $10,000 in PIP coverage, which pays for:

• 80% of reasonable medical expenses
• 60% of lost wages
• Mileage to medical appointments
• Some out-of-pocket expenses

2. Uninsured Motorist Insurance (UM/UIM)

UM/UIM can cover:
• Medical expenses
• Future medical care
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent injuries
• Scarring and disfigurement

3. Bodily Injury Coverage (If the Driver Is Found)

If law enforcement identifies the hit-and-run driver, their insurance may cover:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Wrongful death damages

4. Property Damage Coverage

Depending on your policy, collision coverage or uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) may help repair or replace your vehicle.

5. Wrongful Death Claims

If a loved one was killed in a hit-and-run, Florida’s Wrongful Death Act allows recovery for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of support
• Loss of companionship
• Mental anguish
• Lost earnings

What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident

Hit-and-run claims require quick action to preserve evidence.

• Call 911 immediately
• Get medical treatment within 14 days
• Photograph damage, injuries, and the scene
• Get witness contact information
• Look for nearby cameras
• Notify your insurance company
• Contact a Florida hit-and-run attorney

How St. Johns Law Group Helps Hit-and-Run Victims

Our Personal Injury Team assists clients by:

• Investigating the crash
• Coordinating medical treatment
• Navigating PIP, UM, and health insurance
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Pursuing litigation if necessary

With more than 265 years of combined experience, our attorneys serve:

• St. Augustine
• St. Johns County
• Ponte Vedra and Nocatee
• Palm Coast and Flagler County
• Jacksonville and Duval County

How Long Do You Have to File a Hit-and-Run Claim in Florida?

Under Florida law:

• Personal Injury: 2 years
• Wrongful Death: 2 years
• Uninsured Motorist Claims: often 5 years (policy-dependent)

Common Injuries in Hit-and-Run Crashes

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Neck and back injuries
• Herniated discs
• Broken bones
• Shoulder and knee injuries
• Lacerations and scarring
• Psychological trauma

Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene?

• Intoxication
• No insurance
• No driver’s license
• Fear of arrest
• Driving a stolen vehicle
• Wanted for another crime

Local Hotspots for Hit-and-Run Accidents

In St. Johns and Flagler Counties, hit-and-run crashes commonly occur along:

• US-1
• I-95
• SR-312
• A1A
• Anastasia Island
• Nocatee Town Center
• Palm Coast Parkway
• Publix and Target parking lots
• Downtown St. Augustine tourist areas

When to Contact St. Johns Law Group

If you or a loved one were injured in a hit-and-run accident:

• Get medical treatment
• Protect your rights
• Contact an experienced attorney immediately

We offer:
• Free consultations
• No fees unless we recover for you
• Assistance with medical care and insurance claims

Schedule Your Free Consultation

St. Johns Law Group – Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers
(904) 495-0400
St. Augustine • St. Johns • Ponte Vedra