Date: 2 September 2026
If a driver hits you and speeds off, you still have the right to seek compensation. You can file a claim through your own uninsured motorist coverage, and in many cases, police can track the driver down using witnesses, cameras, or vehicle debris.
A hit-and-run is scary and confusing. But knowing your rights early can protect your health, your wallet, and your case.
What Counts as a Hit-and-Run in Texas, Missouri, Illinois & Kansas?
A hit-and-run happens any time a driver causes an accident and leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or help someone who is hurt. This applies to car crashes, pedestrian accidents, and even collisions with parked vehicles.
Each state treats it as a serious offense:
Texas
Drivers must stop and provide information after a crash involving injury or death (Tex. Transp. Code § 550.021).
Missouri
Leaving the scene is a crime under Mo. Rev. Stat. § 577.060, ranging from a misdemeanor to a felony depending on injuries and damage.
Illinois
State law requires drivers to stop and report a crash (625 ILCS 5/11-401).
Kansas
Drivers must give their name, address, and registration information at the scene (K.S.A. § 8-1602 and § 8-1604).
What Should You Do Right After a Hit-and-Run?
First, check yourself and any passengers for injuries and call 911. Then, follow these steps as soon as you safely can:
- Write down everything you remember about the other vehicle, including color, make, model, and any part of the license plate.
- Look for witnesses and ask if they saw the crash or got a photo or video.
- Check for nearby cameras, such as traffic cameras, doorbell cameras, or business security footage.
- File a police report right away. This creates an official record and starts the search for the driver.
- Take photos of the damage, the scene, and any injuries.
- Contact your insurance company to report the accident and start the claims process.
- Talk to an accident and injury attorney before you accept any settlement offer.
Can You Still Get Compensation If the Driver Is Never Found?
Yes. Even if the other driver disappears, you’re not left with the bill. Most drivers in Texas, Missouri, Illinois, and Kansas carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which is built for exactly this situation. UM coverage can pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, just as if the at-fault driver had insurance.
If you don’t have UM coverage, you may still have other options, such as:
- Filing a claim through your health insurance and later seeking reimbursement.
- Pursuing compensation if a third party, like a business with poor security, contributed to the crash.
- Working with police and prosecutors if the driver is later identified and charged.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
Every state sets a deadline, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit. Missing it usually means losing your right to sue.
State | Statute of Limitations | Citation |
Texas | 2 years | Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 16.003 |
Missouri | 5 years | Mo. Rev. Stat. § 516.120 |
Illinois | 2 years | 735 ILCS 5/13-202 |
Kansas | 2 years | K.S.A. § 60-513 |
Because evidence disappears quickly after a hit-and-run, it’s best to start your claim well before any deadline.
Why Work With a Local Accident and Injury Attorney?
A hit-and-run claim often involves your own insurance company, which means you’re negotiating with an adjuster whose job is to pay you as little as possible. An experienced accident and injury attorney can gather evidence, deal with the insurance company on your behalf, and fight to get you fair compensation while you focus on healing.
GOT QUESTIONS?
Everything you need to know before you call
We answer the questions our clients ask most
What if the police never find the driver who hit me?
You can still recover compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage, even if the driver is never identified.
What if I was a pedestrian or cyclist hit by a fleeing driver?
The same rights apply. You can still pursue a claim through UM coverage, your health insurance, or a lawsuit if the driver is identified.
What if I was a passenger and the rideshare driver wasn't at fault?
You may still have a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance, and in some cases, the rideshare company’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage may apply.
Learn more>> What Determines Who Is At Fault In An Auto Accident?
How long do I have to file a rideshare accident/injury claim?
Learn more>> Why Time is Critical After an Accident/Injury?
Do I need a lawyer for a hit-and-run claim?
You’re not required to have one, but a lawyer can help you avoid lowball settlement offers and missed deadlines, especially when you’re also dealing with medical treatment.
Need help after a hit-and-run?
The information in this blog post is general and should not be considered legal advice. Please contact our legal team directly for specific guidance regarding your unique situation.
