New Report Lists Arizona 3rd in Nation for THIS Deadly Incident

Arizona has recently been awarded a dubious title. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Arizona has the third-highest rate of hit-and-run fatalities in the United States. The only states with more are Louisiana and New Mexico.

Arizona's Average Hit & Run Fatalities

The Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) also tracks and reports statistics through annual reports on crashes throughout the state. The reports include data on a range of motor vehicle accidents, including hit-and-runs, trends, and factors contributing to these incidents.

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The Most Dangerous Places for Hit-and-Run Accidents in Arizona

Unsurprisingly, most of Arizona's traffic incidents happen in urban areas. Phoenix and the surrounding cities in Maricopa County, the state's largest municipality, see the majority of crashes.

In 2023, Arizona's largest cities reported 86.18% of all crashes. Certain types of crashes are more likely to happen in urban areas. For example, 93.78% of pedestrian crashes, 92.71% of bicycle crashes, and 78.67% of motorcycle crashes happened in Arizona's cities.

Why Hit-and-Run Crashes Occur

As the alarming statistics show, Maricopa County is a dangerous place to walk or ride a bicycle. What are the main factors that cause hit-and-run accidents?

The most common reason someone might flee the scene of an accident is fear of legal consequences. The driver may be trying to avoid arrest for reasons like driving under the influence, driving with a suspended license, or having outstanding warrants. ​

Sometimes, a driver may not realize they've hit someone or something, especially in a minor collision. Other drivers panic and leave the scene without thinking clearly.

Finally, if someone is driving without insurance, they may worry about their financial liability and leave the scene of an accident.

Under Arizona law, fleeing the scene of an accident without stopping to exchange information and render aid is considered a hit-and-run. You absolutely have to remain at the scene even if you didn't cause the accident.

Sources: NCHSTATS | NHTSA Fatality Rates | Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) | Alarid Defense | ARS 28-662