Nearly 5% of all traffic fatalities in Mass. from 2017 to 2023 were the result of hit-and-run crashes
More than 919,000 police-reported crashes in 2023 involved a driver who fled the scene, resulting in 242,000 injuries and 2,872 fatalities, according to new research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Data collected for the research found that hit-and-run crashes accounted for 15% of all crashes in 2023, the highest share recorded in recent years.
The findings highlight what the study describes as a growing problem on U.S. roads, where injured victims are often left without immediate assistance and, in many cases, without an identified driver to hold accountable.
“The reasons drivers leave the scene of a crash may vary, but the bottom line is that there’s no excuse,” said Mark Schieldrop, senior spokesperson for AAA Northeast. “Fleeing after a crash only compounds the harm, whereas staying, calling for help and taking responsibility can save lives.”
The report identifies pedestrians, cyclists and roadside service providers as particularly vulnerable. Nearly one in four pedestrians and cyclists killed in crashes in 2023 were struck by drivers who fled. The data also show that at least six in fifteen roadside workers killed in crashes were victims of hit-and-run incidents.
Many of these crashes occur at night or in the early morning hours when visibility is reduced and there may be fewer witnesses available to call for assistance.
In Massachusetts, the report notes that nearly 5% of traffic fatalities between 2017 and 2023 were the result of hit-and-run crashes.
Study Identifies Characteristics of Hit-and-Run Drivers
The AAA Foundation’s analysis also examined characteristics of drivers involved in fatal hit-and-run crashes.
Among drivers who were identified in these incidents:
- 40% did not have a valid driver’s license.
- More than half were driving vehicles not registered in their name.
- Most were young males who crashed within a short distance of their homes.
The research suggests drivers may be less likely to flee if they believe they will be identified and caught.
Technology and Enforcement Among Proposed Solutions
The AAA Foundation study highlights several measures it says could help reduce hit-and-run incidents and improve crash response times.
Among the solutions cited in the report:
- Automatic crash notification systems in vehicles and smartphones that can alert emergency responders.
- Safer roadway designs intended to better protect pedestrians and cyclists.
- Accountability measures, including clear legal consequences and consistent enforcement.
The report also points to the potential role of traffic cameras and “Yellow Alert” systems, which notify the public and request information after serious or fatal hit-and-run crashes.
AAA Foundation researchers said these approaches could help increase the likelihood that drivers involved in crashes remain at the scene and that injured individuals receive assistance more quickly.
