Is Leaving After Scratching a Car Considered Hit-and-Run?
2 Answers
Leaving after scratching a car does not necessarily constitute a hit-and-run traffic accident. It must be determined by the traffic police department after investigation. The following situations are considered hit-and-run: 1. The party involved in the traffic accident knowingly drives away or abandons the vehicle and flees the scene of the accident. 2. The party involved in the traffic accident is suspected of driving under the influence or without a license, and after reporting the incident, fails to fulfill the obligation to stay at the scene for handling, abandons the vehicle, leaves the scene, and then returns. 3. Although the party involved in the traffic accident takes the injured to the hospital, they leave the hospital without reporting the incident and without a valid reason. 4. Although the party involved in the traffic accident takes the injured to the hospital, they leave the hospital after providing false names, addresses, or contact information to the injured or their family. 5. The party involved in the traffic accident flees during the investigation period.
Having driven for most of my life, I firmly believe that leaving the scene after scratching someone's car is absolutely considered hit-and-run. The traffic laws are very clear: leaving the scene of any accident to evade responsibility constitutes a hit-and-run, regardless of the severity. I remember when I was younger, I accidentally scratched someone's car door and hesitated about whether to leave. A friend reminded me of the severe consequences of fleeing. If caught by the police, the fine starts at several hundred yuan, 12 demerit points are deducted, and your driver's license could be suspended. Even worse, if the insurance company finds out you fled, they won't cover the damages, leaving you to pay hundreds or even thousands out of pocket—doubling your losses. Morally, it's also unjustifiable, like being an irresponsible deserter. Honestly parking, assessing the damage, leaving a note, or waiting for the owner turns a small issue into an easily resolved matter. Fleeing only brings guilt and trouble, while staying is the right path.
