Understanding Hit and Run Crashes in Illinois: Reasons Drivers Flee | Uninsured Motorist Claims

Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene? Understanding Hit-and-Run Crashes & How to Protect Yourself

Every year, thousands of innocent people are left injured, devastated, or even killed by one of the most reckless and heartless acts on the road: hit-and-run crashes. The numbers are staggering — in Chicago alone, over 36,000 hit-and-run incidents are reported annually. Nationally, the NHTSA estimates that 1 in 5 pedestrian deaths involve a driver who fled the scene.

But have you ever wondered why drivers run instead of taking responsibility?

In this video, Illinois injury attorney John J. Malm breaks down the top 7 reasons why drivers flee after a crash and why hit-and-run cases often leave victims confused, angry, and without answers.

What You’ll Learn in This Video: 🚗 The psychological, legal, and emotional reasons drivers make the split-second decision to flee
🚫 How lack of insurance, DUI fears, immigration status, and panic drive this behavior
⚠️ The devastating impact on victims who are left behind without accountability
🛡️ How Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage can protect you financially after a hit-and-run accident
💬 What to do if you or a loved one becomes a hit-and-run victim

The Top 7 Reasons Drivers Flee: 1️⃣ Driving without insurance
2️⃣ Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
3️⃣ Having an outstanding warrant or prior criminal offenses
4️⃣ Driving without a valid license
5️⃣ Panic and psychological shock
6️⃣ Fear of immigration consequences
7️⃣ A selfish, split-second decision to avoid responsibility

The Human Cost of Hit-and-Runs

For the victims, these crashes are life-changing. Beyond the physical injuries, many face emotional trauma, lost wages, medical debt, and no clear path to recovery because the responsible driver disappeared.

That’s why knowing about Uninsured Motorist (UM) insurance coverage is so important. Illinois law requires this coverage — and it can provide compensation for your injuries even if the at-fault driver is never found.

What Is UM Coverage? Uninsured Motorist coverage helps you recover damages after a hit-and-run, including: ✔️ Medical expenses
✔️ Lost income
✔️ Pain and suffering
✔️ Permanent disability
✔️ Property damage (if applicable)

But filing a UM claim isn’t always easy. Insurance companies may delay, undervalue, or deny claims — even when you’re using your own coverage.

That’s why you need experienced legal representation.

A Message from John J. Malm, Illinois Car Accident Attorney:

"Hit-and-run crashes are among the most devastating cases we see. The physical and emotional harm left behind when a driver disappears is overwhelming. But victims are not without hope. We’ve helped countless clients file uninsured motorist claims and get the justice they deserve — even when the driver who caused their injuries was never found."

Видео Understanding Hit and Run Crashes in Illinois: Reasons Drivers Flee | Uninsured Motorist Claims канала John J. Malm & Associates Personal Injury Lawyers
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