In Oregon, it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident - and it's not just illegal to leave an injured person. It is also immoral because your time and assistance after a car accident could help save someone's life if they are hurt.
Read more about how ORS 811.705 defines the duties of the driver, and what to do if you have been the victim of a hit and run.
Duties of a Driver to an Injured Person
According to ORS 811.705, if anyone is injured in a crash, the drivers have a duty to perform.
1. They must stop their vehicle at the scene (with posing as an obstruction).
2. They must stay at the scene until released or all obligations outlines here are performed.
3. Give your insurance information to the other driver(s).
4. Show evidence of driving privileges (i.e. license).
5. Help anyone injured, call 911.
5. Cooperate with any emergency personnel like police, medics, etc.
Please note: There are similar requirements of the drivers when there is property damage, and these duties are defined under ORS 811.700.
If you have been in an accident and the other driver did not perform these duties, that person an be held on hit and run charges in a criminal court. In addition, if the person is found to be liable for the accident, you can recover damages from them for your injuries and expenses.
In cases where the driver of the hit and run is found, you can file a claim with their insurance company. The insurance company should help pay for any car repairs and medical expenses incurred because of the accident (as long as their insured caused the accident).
In cases where the at-fault, hit and run driver is not found you can file a claim with your own insurance. This is also true in cases where the driver does not have insurance - a common cause of leaving the scene after causing a crash. In Oregon, you are required to have Uninsured Motorist coverage in your auto policy, with a minimum of $25,000 worth of coverage. This means, that if you need to file a claim with your own insurance, unless you have paid for higher coverage, you can only get $25,000 at the most in compensation.
