Many drivers in Burbank wonder, I committed a hit and run, how long will it take for the police to find me? The truth is that there is no single answer. There is no fixed timeline for police to locate a driver after a hit-and-run. It could be resolved within hours or take several months. The timeframe depends on the strength of evidence, such as video recordings, witness statements, vehicle damage, where and when the incident occurred, and law enforcement resources. The more apparent the evidence, the faster police can find the suspect.
At Glotzer & Leib, we want to clarify how these cases unfold and what legal consequences may follow.
The pace of an investigation is rarely the same in every case. Several key circumstances determine whether police act quickly or whether it takes more time to track down the person responsible. These factors help explain why some cases resolve almost immediately while others linger for weeks or months.
Strong witness accounts and reliable surveillance footage are often the most decisive factors. When multiple individuals provide consistent statements or when cameras capture a license plate or a clear view of the vehicle, officers have what they need to move faster.
On the other hand, limited or conflicting details can significantly delay the process. Even details such as the color of a car, distinctive bumper stickers, or broken headlights can provide crucial leads that narrow down potential suspects.
The seriousness of the accident influences the urgency of law enforcement. A crash that causes severe injuries or fatalities will typically be investigated more quickly and with more resources than a minor property damage incident.
Cases involving pedestrians or bicyclists often receive immediate and aggressive attention. Local communities also tend to pressure law enforcement to act swiftly when vulnerable individuals or children are injured in these types of collisions.
Each police department has its own level of staffing and technology. A city like Burbank may have a different investigative capacity than neighboring areas. Limited resources or competing priorities can slow down the response to specific incidents.
Larger departments may use specialized traffic investigation units, while smaller agencies sometimes need to balance several cases simultaneously, influencing the overall timeline.
At Glotzer & Leib, LLP, we believe every injury victim deserves experienced, dedicated representation, without being treated like just another case. With decades of experience and a track record of seven-figure results, we take on powerful insurance companies and fight for those whose lives have been disrupted by serious motor vehicle accident, a workplace injury, or any type of personal injury claim. You’re not just a case to us, you’re our priority.
While every investigation is unique, there are general stages that most cases follow. These phases give insight into how police pursue hit-and-run drivers. Understanding these steps can help drivers and victims recognize what might be happening behind the scenes.
After a crash is reported, officers arrive to secure the scene, collect immediate information, and prepare an official report. According to the California Highway Patrol, a proper Party of Interest, such as drivers, passengers, or property owners, may later request a copy of a CHP crash report or investigation.
Officers typically start by interviewing those present and identifying any nearby surveillance cameras that may have recorded the event.
Investigators approach this stage by collecting surveillance footage, pieces of damaged vehicles, and firsthand accounts from witnesses, combining them to build a clearer picture of what happened. They might talk with local repair shops or review records that show cars with matching damage. Technology such as automated license plate readers often helps speed things up.
Sometimes, forensic specialists examine small details like broken glass or paint fragments to narrow down the make and model of the car. The amount and quality of information will determine whether this stage lasts only a few days or stretches into several weeks. Officers may also contact neighborhood businesses, including gas stations or convenience stores, to request security camera footage or submit material to forensic labs for additional testing. These added steps often strengthen the case, though they can extend the timeline slightly.
Once evidence is compiled, investigators match it to a vehicle and, ultimately, a driver. When evidence is strong, this can happen rapidly. With fewer leads, this phase may take weeks or months before progress is made.
Police may issue public alerts or ask local repair shops to watch for suspicious vehicles. The suspect’s behavior after the crash, such as repairing damage in secret or attempting to sell the car, can also influence the speed of discovery.
Only Pay If You Win
In California, leaving the scene of an accident without following the required procedures can result in severe penalties. Under California Vehicle Code §20002, any driver involved in a collision that damages property must leave written notice, including their name and address, and must notify the local police or highway patrol without unnecessary delay. Failure to comply is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by fines, restitution, and possible jail time. In cases involving injury or death, penalties can escalate to felony charges carrying significant prison sentences.
Beyond criminal liability, drivers also face civil lawsuits for damages caused. Victims may seek compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering, creating long-term financial consequences for the driver at fault. These civil claims can last long after any criminal sentence is completed, reminding drivers that the consequences of a hit-and-run extend far beyond the initial event. Insurance companies may also deny coverage if a driver flees the scene, leading to additional financial hardship.
The stigma of a hit-and-run conviction can also affect personal and professional life. A criminal record may limit job opportunities, restrict professional licenses, and increase auto insurance rates. These impacts highlight why taking responsibility at the scene is far better than facing the aftermath of avoiding it.
Being investigated for a hit-and-run is a life-altering experience, and legal guidance is essential. At Glotzer & Leib, our Burbank car accident attorneys understand drivers’ stress and uncertainty in these situations. We are here to explain your rights, protect your future, and help you navigate an accident’s criminal and civil consequences.
Contact us today at 747-241-8288 or visit us at 1023 N Hollywood Way, Suite 202, Burbank, CA 91505 for immediate legal support.
Joshua W. Glotzer is a Super Lawyers-recognized personal injury attorney and Managing Partner at Glotzer & Leib, LLP. With over 25 years of experience and multiple seven-figure recoveries, he handles complex cases involving car accidents, slip and falls, and elder abuse. Known for his personalized, results-driven approach, Glotzer ensures every client receives the skilled representation they deserve.
“Mr. Glotzer represented me after I was involved in a car accident. I was badly injured,but the insurance company refused to offer me a reasonable settlement. I decided to find an attorney and decided to hire Josh.
His law firm did a great job on my case. They were very responsive to all my questions and obtained a great resolution for me. I received way more money than was originally offered. I would recommend their firm to friends and family.”
“Mr. Josh Glotzer is a great attorney. Over the last 15 years he has helped me on a number of cases with professionalism, and more importantly a positive outcome in my favor. I have referred him to a number of friends and colleagues, all of which have been equally as happy with his legal representation. I trust him and confident in legal ability. I highly recommend his law firm.”
“Don’t try to deal with insurance companies on your own. They strung me along for almost two years before I gave the case to Glotzer & Leib. Josh and his team quickly obtained a settlement that netted me many times what the insurance company was offering. Thank You!”
“My wife was in a car accident last year and Josh did an amazing job representing her. It’s very refreshing to see someone in his profession that actually cares and puts his clients first. He’s the best in the business and I feel so fortunate that I was referred to him. Keep up the great work and thanks for everything you did for my family!”
“I was in a rear end car accident last year and hired Mr. Glotzer’s office. It wasn’t a big case but their office helped me with my property damage claim and did a good job resolving the injury portion of the case as well.”
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