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Last Modified on Jul 22, 2026
Under Michigan law (MCL 257.618), it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident involving injuries or major property damage. Drivers must stop, exchange their name, address, vehicle information, and insurance details, and provide reasonable help to the injured, which includes contacting emergency responders. The penalties for fleeing depend on the outcome. A property-damage-only incident is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $100 fine. If the accident causes serious injury or death, it is a felony carrying a sentence of up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine, which increases to 15 years and $10,000 if the driver caused the fatality.
Hit and run accidents continue to be a major safety concern in Michigan. A hit and run happens when two vehicles collide and one person flees the scene. In Michigan, it’s illegal to leave the scene of an accident when injuries or major property damage result. Local drivers should be familiar with Michigan hit and run laws and the consequences of breaking these laws.
Understanding Relevant Michigan Hit and Run Laws
Under Section 257.618 of the MCL, it’s illegal to leave an accident scene when someone has experienced injuries or serious property damage. It is a serious offense that can result in possible felony charges. Drivers must stop after being involved in an accident and stay at the scene.
Then, drivers must exchange contact information, including:
- Their name
- Address
- Vehicle information
- Insurance information
Next, drivers must provide reasonable help for anyone hurt. This usually includes a requirement to contact emergency responders.
| Outcome | Charge | Jail/Prison Time | Fine |
|---|
| Property damage only | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $100 |
| Serious injury or death | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $5,000 |
| Driver caused the accident and it resulted in death | Felony | Up to 15 years | Up to $10,000 |
Source: MCL 257.618 and MCL 257.617
If you fail to provide assistance, it can result in criminal charges and consequences. This is true even if you’re not the at-fault party and didn’t cause the accident. Property-damage-only hit and runs are a misdemeanor under MCL 257.618, punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $100, or both.
If the accident causes serious injury or death, it is a felony under MCL 257.617, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. If the driver caused the accident and it resulted in another person’s death, the penalty increases to up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. An unintended consequence of a hit and run can include facing increased insurance costs, as your insurance carrier may increase your premiums under your car insurance policy.
As a result, it’s important to avoid these potential penalties and remain at the scene of any accident.
Michigan Hit and Run Information
Unfortunately, people in Michigan and throughout the United States still commit hit and runs daily. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety noted there were approximately 682,000 hit and run collisions in the US each year for a ten-year period.
The Michigan State Police reported approximately 71,085 vehicle accidents in 2023. Hit and runs tend to involve drivers who are under the influence or fleeing the police, as they may try to evade the consequences of causing an accident. Across Michigan, there were 8,817 alcohol-involved crashes, 2,250 drug-related accidents, and 764 crashes involving fleeing the police in 2023.
Victims of hit and run accidents face serious property damage and major injuries. Many accidents are tragic, especially if a victim is left with injuries or if they pass away because someone fled the scene. These injuries and fatalities are often preventable.
If someone flees the scene and drives away, it can leave you wondering what to do next. An attorney can help you recover financially and get the fair compensation you deserve after a traumatic accident. If you were involved in a recent hit and run, contact a trusted Michigan hit and run lawyer to discuss how they can help you.
FAQs
What’s a Hit and Run Accident Worth in Michigan?
All hit and run accidents are unique, and the value of your claim in Michigan depends on your specific case. An attorney can evaluate your claim’s value by calculating your specific medical and property damages. They may consult with trusted professionals to determine the full value of your damages. An attorney can help you pursue all avenues necessary to maximize your accident’s worth.
What Types of Injuries Do People Experience in Hit and Runs?
People involved in car accidents, including hit and runs, can experience many different types of injuries. Fractures, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and lacerations are some of the most common. In severe cases, accident-related fatalities are possible. Every accident is different, and you may want to speak with an attorney about your specific injuries. An attorney can use their resources to connect you with experienced doctors while they help manage your claim for damages.
Should I Call a Hit and Run Lawyer After an Accident?
Yes, it’s important to call a hit and run lawyer after you’ve been involved in a car accident of any kind. Ideally, you should contact a trusted attorney before you speak with any insurance adjusters about your accident, since they usually want you to provide a recorded statement quickly.
An attorney can advise you on what you should say and what you should avoid saying. They can provide reliable legal assistance and discuss your legal recovery options.
Do I Have to Hire an Attorney After a Hit and Run?
No, you’re not required by law to hire an attorney if you’ve been hit by a driver who fled the scene. However, it’s always recommended. An attorney can ensure you get full and fair compensation for your accident-related injuries and property losses. Also, they can get justice from the at-fault party and help locate the driver who left.
Is a Hit and Run a Felony in Michigan?
It depends on the outcome. Property-damage-only cases are a misdemeanor. Cases involving serious injury or death are a felony, with penalties up to 15 years in prison if the driver caused a fatal accident.
Experienced Michigan Hit and Run Lawyers – Call Wigod & Falzon
If you were involved in an accident where the at-fault party quickly left the scene, the hit and run accident team at Wigod & Falzon can provide trusted help. While you focus on getting better, we can thoroughly investigate your accident and collect relevant evidence to build a solid recovery case. Once we have located the at-fault party, we can negotiate on your behalf. If a fair settlement amount isn’t offered, we can file a claim in a Michigan court.
We proudly represent clients across Michigan from our Jackson and Southfield offices. We know how to get results, and we’re ready to discuss your hit and run accident. We have seen a wide variety of hit and runs, and we can help you receive justice and fair compensation. We can help you move forward after a hit and run wreck.
Contact Wigod & Falzon today to set up your initial meeting with an experienced attorney. Let us help you with your hit and run case.
