If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Mississippi, your most important options are to seek immediate medical care, report the incident to law enforcement, gather as much evidence as possible, and consult an experienced attorney to protect your rights and pursue compensation.
What Should I Do First After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
Taking the right steps can make a significant difference in your safety and your ability to recover damages.
- First, check yourself and any passengers for injuries and seek prompt medical attention. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Next, contact law enforcement and file a police report right away. The sooner you report the accident, the greater the chances are that the at-fault driver will be identified.
- Gathering evidence—such as photographs of the scene, witness statements, and surveillance footage—will be crucial for your case.
How Does Mississippi Law Define and Penalize Hit-and-Run Accidents?
Mississippi law is clear regarding hit-and-run accidents. Under Mississippi Code § 63-3-401, drivers involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage must stop at the scene, provide their information, and assist anyone who needs medical attention. Failing to do so is considered a criminal offense, with penalties ranging from fines and license suspension to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the accident.
According to reports in the March 26, 2026, Clinton Courier:
- Every 13 days, a Mississippi driver flees a fatal crash.
- Between 2019 and 2023, 139 people were killed in hit-and-run incidents across the Magnolia State.
- This is an average of 28 hit-and-run deaths every year.
According to the Cornell Law School Legal Information Institute, a hit-and-run can carry serious legal consequences for the fleeing driver, but unfortunately, many drivers are never identified. It is also unfortunate that this type of accident is on the rise across Mississippi.
What Are My Insurance Options If the Driver Is Not Found?
If the other driver cannot be identified after a hit-and-run accident, you may still have options for compensation. Many auto insurance policies in Mississippi include uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can cover your damages when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.
You should notify your insurance company as soon as possible after the accident. If you have UM coverage, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. If you are unsure whether your policy includes UM protection, an attorney can review your coverage and advise you on your rights.
Can I Pursue a Civil Lawsuit in a Hit-and-Run Accident?
If the at-fault driver is identified, you may be able to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit against them. Even if the driver faces criminal charges, you have the right to pursue civil damages for your injuries and losses. The process can be complex, especially if the driver is uninsured or has limited assets. This is where an experienced car accident attorney in Booneville or Tupelo can help you navigate the legal system and maximize your recovery.
What Evidence Will Help My Case?
In hit-and-run accident claims, evidence is critical. Useful evidence may include:
- Photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries
- Statements and contact information from witnesses
- Police reports and accident documentation
- Surveillance camera footage from nearby traffic cameras, businesses, or homes
- Medical records and bills
The more evidence you can provide, the stronger your case will be—whether you are dealing with insurance companies or pursuing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
What Are Some Examples of Hit-and-Run Accidents?
Consider a scenario where you are driving through Booneville and another vehicle sideswipes you at an intersection, then speeds away without stopping. Or perhaps you return to your parked car outside a Tupelo business and find significant damage with no note left behind. In both cases, you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident and are entitled to seek legal remedies.
How Can Langston & Lott Help After a Hit-and-Run Accident?
Langston & Lott, Attorneys at Law, has helped victims of hit-and-run accidents throughout Booneville, Tupelo, and Northeast Mississippi for decades. Our firm’s deep roots in the community and decades of experience mean we understand both the legal and practical challenges you face after a hit-and-run. We know how to investigate these cases thoroughly, work with law enforcement, communicate with insurance companies, and fight for maximum compensation. Our team has a track record of helping clients recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hit-and-Run Accidents
What should I do if I witness a hit-and-run accident?
If you witness a hit-and-run, try to record as many details as possible—such as the make, model, color, and license plate of the fleeing vehicle. Call 911 and provide your statement to law enforcement.
How long do I have to file a claim after a hit-and-run accident in Mississippi?
Mississippi’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally three years from the date of the accident, but it’s best to begin the process as soon as possible.
Can I recover damages if the hit-and-run driver is never found?
Yes, you may be able to recover through your uninsured motorist coverage. An attorney can help you explore all available options.
Is leaving the scene of an accident ever justified?
Mississippi law requires all drivers to stop after an accident. Leaving the scene is a crime, except in rare situations where remaining at the scene would threaten your safety (and you must still report the accident as soon as possible).
Why should I hire an attorney for a hit-and-run accident?
An attorney can help protect your rights, deal with insurance companies, investigate the incident, and maximize your compensation—especially in complex hit-and-run cases where the other driver is unknown or uncooperative. However, under Mississippi Code Ann. Section 83-11-101, recovering damages under an uninsured motorist policy for an unidentified driver usually requires proof of actual physical contact between the unknown vehicle and the insured vehicle or person.
Know Your Rights and Act Fast
If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, act quickly to protect your health, gather evidence, and consult a knowledgeable attorney. Mississippi law provides strong protections for victims, and with the right legal guidance, you may still recover compensation even if the other driver is not found. Langston & Lott Attorneys at Law have the experience and local knowledge to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Langston & Lott, Attorneys at Law, in Booneville and Tupelo, MS, to schedule a consultation and learn more about your rights and options after a hit-and-run accident. Let us put our expertise to work for you, so you can focus on your recovery.
