WASHINGTON, D.C. — A record share of traffic crashes in the United States involved drivers who fled the scene in 2023, according to new research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
The study found that 15% of all police-reported crashes in 2023 involved a driver leaving the scene, the highest percentage recorded in recent years.
Researchers say the trend highlights a growing safety crisis on U.S. roads, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists who are often struck and left without immediate help.
Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable. The study found one in four pedestrians killed in crashes and nearly as many cyclists killed in 2023 were struck by drivers who fled. Many of these incidents occur late at night or early in the morning when visibility is poor and fewer witnesses are present.
“While the reasons drivers flee vary, the outcomes are often too severe or fatal and our analysis shows the percentage of this crash type continues to increase during the past several years,” said Dr. David Yang, President and Executive Director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. “Drivers must understand that leaving the scene only compounds the harm. Staying, calling for help, and taking responsibility can save lives.”
Roadside service workers also face significant risks. AAA reported that 15 roadside service providers were struck and killed while working near traffic last year, including at least six deaths involving drivers who fled the scene.
“Every time a roadside technician steps out of their vehicle, they’re putting themselves in harm’s way to help someone else,” said Cliff Ruud, Managing Director of Automotive Services at AAA. “When a driver flees the scene, it puts our technicians at even greater risk. These are people with families who should make it home at the end of their shift—and too often, hit-and-run drivers take that chance away. Drivers have the power to protect them—slow down, move over, and stay alert when you see flashing lights.”
The AAA Foundation said several factors may contribute to hit-and-run incidents, including drivers without valid licenses and vehicles not registered in their name.
Among known drivers involved in fatal hit-and-run crashes, 40% did not have a valid driver’s license, and more than half were driving vehicles not registered to them, according to the study. Many of the drivers identified were young men who crashed relatively close to their homes.
Researchers say technology and stronger enforcement could help reduce hit-and-run incidents.
“Bringing down the number of hit-and-run crashes will take a multi-pronged approach,” said Jake Nelson, AAA’s Director of Traffic Safety Advocacy and Research. “Stronger enforcement, smarter use of technology, and public education can work together to change behavior—and we already have the tools to make a real difference and save lives.”
The report also suggests solutions such as automatic crash notification systems in vehicles and smartphones, improved road designs for pedestrians and cyclists, and expanded use of traffic cameras or public alert systems to help identify fleeing drivers.
AAA officials say increasing accountability and improving public awareness could play a key role in preventing future tragedies.
