It is a criminal offense (crime) for the operator of a motor vehicle involved in an accident to leave the scene of the accident. Leaving the scene of an accident is commonly known as hit-and-run, and may be charged as one of a few criminal offenses—and as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the state’s statutes.

For example, it is a crime to leave the scene of an accident involving another vehicle when there is damage to an occupied vehicle. The operators of the vehicles in such an accident must stop and exchange relevant information, such as name, address, vehicle make and model, license plate number, and insurance information.

If the operator of a motor vehicle is involved in an accident with an unoccupied parked vehicle, the operator generally must stop and find the owner of the vehicle that was hit, or leave a note with the operator’s name, address, telephone number or e-mail address, and insurance company and policy number.

Similarly, if the operator of a motor vehicle is involved in an accident with unattended property, the operator must stop and make a reasonable effort to find the owner of the property and leave the operator’s name, address, telephone number or e-mail address, and insurance company and policy number.

And if the operator of a motor vehicle is involved in an accident that involves bodily injury or death, the operator must stop and, if able, render aid to any injured persons. The failure to do so is a felony offense in many states, and may be punished by jail or prison time, fines, and the revocation of driving privileges.

Hit-and-run and failure-to-stop-and-render-aid laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—usually in the vehicle code, transportation code, or penal or criminal code.

In Illinois, leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident is a criminal offense known as hit-and-run. Under Illinois law, the severity of the charge depends on the circumstances of the accident. If the accident involves property damage, such as hitting an occupied or unoccupied vehicle, the driver must stop and exchange information or leave a note with their contact and insurance details. Failure to do so can result in a misdemeanor charge. However, if the accident results in bodily injury or death, the driver is required to stop, provide aid, and report the accident to the authorities. Not fulfilling these obligations can lead to felony charges, which carry more severe penalties including potential imprisonment, fines, and revocation of driving privileges. These regulations are outlined in the Illinois Vehicle Code, and adherence to these laws is mandatory to avoid serious legal consequences.