Hit-and-Run Accidents in Florida: What Are Your Options?

A hit-and-run leaves you with injuries, no answers, and seemingly no one to hold accountable. Florida law has a built-in solution for exactly this situation.

Written by the Florida Injury Team Legal Content Team · Reviewed for accuracy by our network of licensed Florida attorneys · Learn about our editorial process

Your options after a hit-and-run

Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime in Florida, but that doesn't change the fact that you're left with medical bills and no driver to hold responsible — at least not right away. Fortunately, Florida law provides a path to compensation even when the at-fault driver is never found.

Uninsured motorist coverage is your primary protection

If you carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM) coverage, it typically applies to hit-and-run accidents, since the fleeing driver is effectively "unidentified" and therefore uninsured for purposes of your claim. This coverage can pay for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What if the driver is later identified?

If police locate the driver, your claim may shift to pursuing their insurance (or them personally) instead of, or alongside, your UM coverage, depending on the circumstances.

What to do immediately after a hit-and-run

• Call 911 and file a police report — this creates an official record even without a suspect
• Try to note any details: partial plate number, vehicle color/make, direction of travel
• Ask nearby businesses or homes if they have surveillance footage
• Get medical care and keep every record
• Notify your own insurance company promptly to preserve your UM claim

Why these claims can get complicated

Insurance companies sometimes resist UM claims for hit-and-runs, questioning whether the accident happened as described without another driver to corroborate it. An attorney can help gather evidence and push back on unfair denials.