A hit and run accident can leave you feeling shocked, frustrated, and unsure of what to do next. Whether the crash happened on Loop 101, Scottsdale Road near Old Town, or at a busy intersection like Shea Boulevard and 92nd Street, fleeing drivers create additional stress and legal complications for victims.
If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident in Scottsdale, knowing the right steps to take can protect your health, strengthen your claim, and improve your chances of recovering compensation. At Valley Injury Law, we help accident victims throughout Scottsdale, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Arcadia, Desert Ridge, and nearby communities pursue justice and financial recovery.
1. Call 911 Immediately
Your first priority is safety.
- Call 911 right away.
- Report the accident as a hit and run.
- Request medical assistance if needed.
Even if your injuries seem minor, having law enforcement respond is critical. A police report will document the incident and serve as important evidence for your insurance claim.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries—such as whiplash, concussions, and internal trauma—may not show symptoms immediately. Always seek medical care as soon as possible.
Prompt treatment:
- Protects your health
- Creates medical documentation
- Strengthens your personal injury claim
Delaying care may allow insurance companies to question the seriousness of your injuries.
3. Gather as Much Information as Possible
If you are physically able, collect any details about the fleeing vehicle.
Important information includes:
- Vehicle make, model, and color
- License plate number (even partial numbers help)
- Direction the vehicle fled
- Damage to the other vehicle
- Driver description
Even small details can assist law enforcement in identifying the responsible party.
4. Speak With Witnesses
Witnesses may have seen the vehicle or captured details you missed. Ask for:
- Names
- Phone numbers
- Email addresses
Nearby businesses in areas like Old Town Scottsdale or Scottsdale Fashion Square may also have surveillance footage that captured the incident.
5. Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of:
- Vehicle damage
- Debris
- Skid marks
- Traffic signals
- Road conditions
- Visible injuries
This evidence can be crucial in supporting your car accident claim in Arizona.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the hit and run accident to your insurer promptly. In many cases, recovery comes through your own coverage.
You may be able to file a claim under:
- Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage
- Underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage
- Collision coverage
Insurance companies may still attempt to minimize payouts—even when you are the victim. Consulting a personal injury lawyer in Phoenix before giving detailed statements can protect your rights.
7. Understand Arizona Hit and Run Laws
Under Arizona law, drivers involved in an accident must stop, provide information, and render aid if necessary. Leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense.
However, criminal charges against the fleeing driver are separate from your right to pursue civil compensation. Even if the driver is never identified, you may still recover damages through your insurance policy.
8. How Arizona Comparative Negligence Applies
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence system. If there is any allegation that you contributed to the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example:
If your total damages are $100,000 and you are found 10% at fault, you may recover $90,000.
Insurance companies sometimes attempt to shift blame in hit and run cases. An experienced injury attorney near you can protect your claim.
9. Compensation Available After a Hit and Run Accident
Under Arizona injury law, you may be entitled to recover both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability
Arizona generally does not cap compensatory damages.
10. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer
Hit and run accidents can be more complex than typical collisions. Identifying insurance coverage, investigating the scene, and negotiating with insurers require experience.
A car accident attorney Scottsdale residents trust can:
- Conduct a thorough investigation
- Locate surveillance footage
- Work with accident reconstruction experts
- Review your insurance coverage
- Handle negotiations with insurers
- File a lawsuit if necessary
Early legal representation improves your chances of maximizing compensation.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In most cases, Arizona law gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Claims involving government vehicles may have shorter deadlines.
Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.
Why Choose Valley Injury Law?
If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident in Scottsdale, Valley Injury Law provides experienced and compassionate representation.
Our Advantages
- Extensive knowledge of Arizona injury law
- Direct access to an experienced attorney
- No upfront fees—you pay nothing unless we win
- Aggressive negotiation with insurance companies
- Personalized legal strategies
- Trial-ready preparation
- Serving Scottsdale, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Arcadia, Desert Ridge, and nearby communities
We understand Scottsdale traffic patterns, accident hotspots, and local court procedures—and we use that knowledge to advocate for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I can’t identify the hit and run driver?
You may still recover compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage.
Is a hit and run a felony in Arizona?
In many cases, yes—especially if the accident involves injuries. However, criminal charges are separate from your civil claim.
Will my insurance rates increase after a hit and run?
It depends on your policy and circumstances. An attorney can help you navigate the claims process.
Do I need a lawyer for a hit and run accident in Scottsdale?
Yes. These cases often involve complex insurance issues, and having legal representation protects your interests.
Contact a Trusted Personal Injury Lawyer in Scottsdale
A hit and run accident can leave you feeling helpless—but you still have legal options. With the right guidance, you can pursue compensation and protect your future.
Valley Injury Law proudly represents injury victims in Scottsdale, Phoenix, Paradise Valley, Arcadia, Desert Ridge, and nearby communities.
Call today at (480) 490-9535 to schedule your free consultation!