What to Do If You Are Involved in a Hit-and-Run Incident
Last reviewed: 2026 · Driviology Road Safety Education Team
Quick Answer
If you are involved in or witness a hit-and-run, note as many details as possible - location, vehicle description, direction of travel - and report it to police as soon as safely possible, since leaving the scene of a collision carries serious legal consequences.
A hit-and-run situation is stressful whether you are the victim or a witness, and knowing the basic steps in advance helps you respond clearly under pressure.
If You Are the Victim
Note the other vehicle's description, licence plate if visible, and direction of travel, then report the incident to police, since prompt reporting significantly improves the odds of resolution.
If You Witness One
The same details - vehicle description, plate, direction of travel - are valuable to police even as a witness, and reporting what you saw can meaningfully help the victim.
Why Leaving the Scene Is a Serious Offence
Failing to stop after a collision carries serious legal consequences, including a possible criminal offence charge, regardless of how minor the collision seemed.