BOISE – (March 26, 2026) – It’s a traumatic experience for everyone involved to be in a crash, and in a frightening new trend, more drivers are choosing to flee rather than face accountability for their actions behind the wheel.

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that 15% of all police-reported crashes in 2023 involved a driver who fled the scene – 7% of all crash deaths.  An alarming 1 in 4 pedestrian fatalities (and nearly as many cyclist deaths) involved a hit-and-run crash.

“Unfortunately, a driver who chooses to flee has often made other poor choices that motivate the behavior – for example, the failure to carry the proper insurance coverage or driving without a valid license,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde.  “Regardless of the reason, it is never acceptable to leave the scene without fulfilling obligations as prescribed by law.”

Additional AAA findings

Among hit-and-run drivers:

  • 40% did not have a valid driver’s license
  • More than half were driving vehicles not registered in their name
  • The majority were young, male, and persons who crashed close to home

Not surprisingly, fatal hit-and-run crashes often occur late at night or in the early morning hours, when visibility is low and fewer witnesses are present.  Research suggests that drivers are less likely to flee the scene when they believe they will be caught.

The golden hour

“The first hour after a crash is so important in terms of survivability.  If medical attention is not promptly dispatched to address head and neck trauma, internal bleeding, and organ injury, the odds of death increase dramatically,” Conde said.  “Let’s be clear – you owe it to others, both as a responsible person and as a compassionate human being, to report the crash and then remain present until authorities arrive and give further instructions.  You should also render aid as directed.”

AAA reminds drivers that at this time of year, more pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists are out and about, taking advantage of warmer weather.  Please ditch the distractions and focus on safe driving.

In addition to the call for safer drivers, AAA encourages:

  • Vehicle and cell phone companies to further innovate to improve emergency response times after a crash
  • Government leaders to design safer streets with dedicated bike lanes, well-lit crosswalks, and other safety infrastructure, especially in high-risk areas
  • Traffic safety professionals to continuously remind drivers that fleeing the scene after a crash is dangerous and illegal and often carries fatal consequences

Slow Down, Move Over safety campaign

“Nationwide, 6 out of the 15 roadside service providers killed in 2025 were hit by a driver who fled the scene,” Conde said.  “It is imperative that drivers remember to Slow Down below the speed limit and, where possible, Move Over to give our roadside heroes more room to safely do their job.”