WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I’M INVOLVED IN A HIT-AND-RUN ACCIDENT IN KANSAS CITY?

Being involved in any car accident can be frightening, but when the other driver speeds off and leaves the scene, the situation becomes even more stressful and legally complicated.

Whether you’re the victim or the person accused of fleeing the scene, a hit-and-run accident in Kansas City can lead to serious criminal and civil consequences.

At Speeding Ticket KC, we’ve helped countless drivers navigate the aftermath of hit-and-run allegations. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to do if you’re involved in a hit-and-run in Missouri, what the law says, and why you should speak to an experienced Kansas City traffic attorney near me immediately.

WHAT IS A HIT-AND-RUN ACCIDENT IN MISSOURI?

Under Missouri law, a hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident fails to stop and provide their name, address, and insurance information or leaves the scene without contacting authorities, especially if the crash resulted in property damage, injury, or death.

Hit-and-run violations in Kansas City can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the accident and whether someone was injured.

STEPS TO TAKE IF YOU’RE THE VICTIM OF A HIT-AND-RUN

If another driver flees the scene, you still have legal options to protect yourself. Here’s what to do:

Stay Calm and Stay Safe

Your first priority should be your safety. Move your vehicle out of traffic, if possible, and check yourself and any passengers for injuries. Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt.

Call the Police

Even if you’re not injured, it’s critical to report the hit-and-run to local authorities right away. The police will document the scene, file a report, and potentially initiate an investigation using nearby traffic cameras, eyewitnesses, or license plate data.

Gather Evidence

Try to collect as much information as you can at the scene:

• Description of the other vehicle (make, model, color, damage)
• Partial license plate number (even a few digits help)
• Time and location of the crash
• Photos of your damage and surroundings
• Contact information for any witnesses

This evidence will help both your insurance company and law enforcement.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the incident to your insurer as soon as possible. Depending on your coverage, you may be able to file a claim under uninsured motorist coverage or collision coverage. If the fleeing driver is found later, their insurance may be held responsible.

Speak to an experienced Kansas City Traffic Attorney

If the hit-and-run resulted in injuries or extensive damage—or if you suspect you might be blamed for the crash, it’s wise to talk to an attorney. A skilled Kansas City traffic lawyer can guide you through insurance claims, police investigations, and possible court appearances.

WHAT IF YOU LEFT THE SCENE OF THE ACCIDENT?

It happens more often than people realize. You may have panicked, been unaware of the damage, or were scared of legal trouble. If you’ve been involved in an accident and did not stop, you could be facing criminal charges.

However, you still have rights, and how you respond next could make a major difference.

MISSOURI PENALTIES FOR HIT-AND-RUN:

• Property Damage Only: Class A misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail and/or fines up to $2,000
• Injury or Death Involved: Class D or Class C felony, with potential prison time up to 7 years (or more)
• Leaving Scene with Prior Convictions: Enhanced penalties

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney Immediately: Do not try to “explain” to the police without legal counsel. Statements made without an attorney present can be used against you.

Avoid Contacting the Other Party Directly: This can be seen as witness tampering or an admission of guilt.

Hire a Kansas City Hit-and-Run Lawyer: An knowledgeable Kansas City traffic lawyer can assess your case, work to minimize penalties, and potentially negotiate alternative resolutions such as probation, restitution, or dismissal.

WHY SHOULD YOU CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC?

At Speeding Ticket KC, we know Missouri traffic law inside and out. Whether you’re a victim of a hit-and-run or have been accused of fleeing the scene, our attorneys have the experience to help protect your rights and minimize the impact on your driving record and freedom.

Here’s what we offer:

Free consultation to review your case

Aggressive defense for misdemeanor or felony charges

Strategic guidance on minimizing fines, points, and license suspension

Compassionate service—we’re here to help, not judge

DON’T WAIT — CALL A SKILLED KANSAS CITY HIT-AND-RUN LAWYER TODAY

The sooner you act, the better your chances of protecting yourself. Hit-and-run charges can escalate quickly, and delays can complicate your defense or insurance claim.

Call Speeding Ticket KC at (816) 750-2535 today or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you navigate the aftermath of a hit-and-run and fight for the best possible outcome.