Hit and Run in Georgia: Laws, Penalties, and What to Do (2026)

# Hit and Run in Georgia: What You Need to Know

> **KEY FACTS:**
> – Hit and run is a **criminal offense** in Georgia — misdemeanor to felony
> – Georgia’s **50% fault bar** typically does not affect hit-and-run victims
> – Report within **10 days** if $500+ damage
> – **UM coverage** is your primary claim option
> – Statute of limitations: **2 years PI**, **4 years PD**

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## Georgia Hit-and-Run Laws

Georgia law (O.C.G.A. §§ 40-6-270 through 40-6-272) requires every driver to stop, provide information, and render aid.

### Criminal Penalties

| Scenario | Classification | Penalty |
|———-|—————|———|
| Property damage only | Misdemeanor | Up to $1,000 fine + 12 months jail |
| Injury or death | Felony (O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270(b)) | 1-5 years prison |

### The “Aaron’s Law” Enhancement

Georgia has enhanced penalties for hit-and-run accidents involving serious injury or death, reflecting the state’s strong stance against leaving the scene.

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## What to Do If You Are a Hit-and-Run Victim

### At the Scene

1. **Stay at the scene** — do not chase the other driver
2. **Call 911** — report immediately
3. **Note the vehicle:** plate (even partial), make, model, color, direction
4. **Get witness information**
5. **Photograph everything** — damage, debris, road conditions
6. **Check for cameras** — traffic cameras, business cameras

### After the Scene

7. **Get the police report**
8. **Report to DDS** within 10 days if $500+ damage
9. **Contact your insurer**
10. **Seek medical attention** — document injuries immediately

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## Filing a Claim After a Hit and Run

### UM/UIM Coverage Is Your Primary Path

Since the other driver fled:

**1. Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage:**
– Treats the unidentified driver as uninsured
– Covers medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering
– File with your own insurer
– Police report typically required

**2. Collision Coverage:**
– Covers vehicle damage (minus deductible)
– Does not require identifying the other driver

**3. MedPay:**
– Covers medical expenses regardless of fault
– Available immediately

### The 50% Bar and Hit-and-Run

Georgia’s strict 50% bar (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33) typically does **not** disadvantage hit-and-run victims — the fleeing driver is presumed at fault, and victims generally have no fault assigned.

### If the Driver Is Found

– File a **third-party claim** against their insurance (25/50/25 minimum)
– The **hit-and-run** adds to their liability
– File a **lawsuit** for damages
– Criminal penalties are separate from civil claims

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## Frequently Asked Questions

### Is hit and run a felony in Georgia?
Yes, if anyone was injured or killed. Property damage only is a misdemeanor.

### Does the 50% bar affect my hit-and-run claim?
Generally not. As a hit-and-run victim, fault is typically assigned entirely to the fleeing driver.

### How long to report?
**10 days** to the DDS if $500+ damage. Report to police immediately at the scene.

### What if I do not have UM coverage?
Collision covers vehicle damage. Health insurance covers medical bills. If the driver is identified, file against their insurance.

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## Related Guides

– [What to Do After a Car Accident in Georgia](/georgia/car-accident-guide/)
– [Georgia Car Accident Laws](/georgia/car-accident-laws/)
– [How to File an Insurance Claim in Georgia](/georgia/insurance-claim/)

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**DISCLAIMER:** This website is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. This page provides general educational information only. Always consult a licensed attorney in your state for advice specific to your situation. This is not medical advice. If you have been injured, seek immediate medical attention. Last updated: March 2026.