TULSA, Okla. –
New research from AAA shows deadly hit-and-run crashes are reaching record highs nationwide. Tulsa police say when hit-and-run crashes happen, the reactions from victims and witnesses can be critical.
Q: Who is most at risk in hit-and-run crashes?
A: According to AAA, people walking and riding bikes are among the most vulnerable. In 2023, one in four pedestrians killed nationwide was the victim of a hit-and-run driver. Nearly as many cyclists were also struck by drivers who fled the scene.
Q: What recent cases have local police responded to?
A: The Tulsa Police Department says a driver last month ran from officers in Bixby, crashed into innocent people near 91st Street and Mingo Road, then took off again. Officers later arrested the suspect. Just days later, police in Broken Arrow arrested a driver accused of hitting a pedestrian and never stopping.
Q: What legally counts as a hit-and-run?
A: Tulsa Police Officer Andre Baul says any crash where a driver fails to stop and exchange information qualifies.
“Any time somebody is in an accident, on the freeway or a public street, and you don’t stop to exchange information, that’s considered a hit-and-run,” Baul said.
Q: What do researchers say about drivers who flee?
A: Researchers found nearly 40% of drivers involved in fatal hit-and-run crashes did not have a valid driver’s license. More than half were driving vehicles that were not registered to them.
Q: What should victims or witnesses do first?
A: Police say getting detailed information is critical. Baul recommends focusing on the license plate.
“The first thing they should try to do is get a tag,” he said. “That’s how 99% of these cases are solved.”
Q: Is safety a concern after a crash?
A: Yes. Officers urge people to move to a safe location if possible.
“That makes it safer for you and for other people on the road,” Baul said, noting that a stalled vehicle in traffic can become a serious hazard.
Q: What tool could make a big difference for investigators?
A: Police strongly recommend using a dash camera. Video can help officers see exactly what happened. If you don’t have one, try to identify something unique about the vehicle along with the license plate number.
Q: When do many fatal hit-and-run crashes happen?
A: Researchers say many occur late at night or in the early morning, when roads are darker and there are fewer witnesses around.
