When Do Most Hit-And-Runs Happen? – A Quick Data Review
Unfortunately, hit-and-run crashes are becoming increasingly common throughout the USA. Statistics out of AAA suggests hit-and-run-related deaths have increased by 60 percent between 2009 – 2016.
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Sadly, about 2,050 Americans lost their lives in 2016 due to hit-and-run accidents. Whether you’re a pedestrian, bicyclist, or motorist, it has never been more important to remain alert on the roads.
One question many people have is whether there are certain hours when hit-and-runs are more common. Interestingly, there have been a few studies examining the times of hit-and-runs in different regions of America.
Below, we’ll break down a few of the latest findings examining this significant safety issue.
When Do Most Hit-And-Runs Happen In The USA?
Although car crashes can occur at any time, recent research suggests these are the most prevalent times for hit-and-runs:
Let’s take a closer look at why these times have such high hit-and-run figures.
Risky Rush Hour Crashes
The most plausible explanation for the first time bracket is rush hour traffic. With more people crowding the roadways, it’s just more likely for crashes (including hit-and-runs) to happen.
Indeed, that’s the explanation lawyers at Sacramento’s AutoAccident.com gave in their recent report examining the city’s hit-and-run stats. When analysts at this firm examined Sacramento’s crash data, they found there were between 160 – 180 reported hit-and-runs in these two hours between 2017 – 2018.
Interestingly, data compiled by AAA showed that hit-and-runs involving property damage were far more likely to occur in daylight hours. Scientists aren’t quite sure why this is the case, but they conjecture many drivers might not know the proper protocol for reporting these types of hit-and-runs.
The Danger Of The Night
In addition to peak rush hour, hit-and-runs are also fairly common during the day’s darkest hours. Another study listed by AAA suggested drivers were about 4.5 times more likely to flee a crash site between 12 AM – 4 AM compared with 8 AM – 12 AM. This is especially the case for fatal hit-and-runs involving a pedestrian.
There are many possible explanations for this nighttime spike in hit-and-run crashes. First, drivers feel they can easily speed away since it’s more difficult for witnesses to make out their vehicle.
Second, DUI issues are far more prevalent at nighttime. And lastly, it’s more difficult to see during these hours, especially if pedestrians or cyclists aren’t wearing reflective clothing.
Take Proactive Steps To Avoid Hit-And-Run Crashes
Although hit-and-runs are more frequent during the times listed above, that doesn’t mean you should ever let your guard down.
Please take as many preventative steps as possible to protect yourself when you’re traveling on the road. If you’re walking or cycling at night, then you should consider wearing bright, reflective clothing to clearly signal your whereabouts.
Most importantly, always remain vigilant no matter where you’re traveling. Your quick reactions could save you from becoming the victim of a careless hit-and-run driver.
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