Increase in hit and run accidents

Published: 13/07/2015

New figures from the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) show that the number of claims where the driver did not stop has gone up in the last year. In 2014 13,483 claims were made compared with 12,884 in 2013. Analysis has shown that many hit and run accidents involve drivers who have been drinking or taking drugs.

A loophole in the law means that in some cases those who leave the scene of an accident to sober up can escape with shorter sentences. Personal injury solicitor, Kevin Smith considers this trend.

“Industry analysis suggests that one of the reasons for hit and run road accidents is that the driver has been drinking or is under the influence of drugs and leaves the scene to sober up. No doubt there are other reasons including lack of valid motor insurance, fear and panic or simply hoping they get away with it so their premiums don’t go up with a claim against their policy.

“Hit and run accidents are a very emotive aspect of road traffic accidents. Leaving the scene of road accidents is a cowardly and selfish act, particularly so when there may be someone injured. Campaigners are calling for tougher sentences for those who do drive away from road accidents and this indeed may deter drivers from doing so.”

Content correct at time of publication