Last verified: January 2026. This article reflects current Alaska Statutes Title 28 and recent case law.
📑 Table of Contents (click to expand)
Quick Summary
- Misdemeanor: Leaving the scene of a property damage accident is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in prison and a $500 fine.
- Felony: Fleeing an accident involving injury or death is a Class C felony, carrying up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $150,000.
- License revocation: Courts may revoke your driver’s license for up to 10 years (not counting prison time) for felony hit and run.
- Legal duty: You must stop, render aid, exchange information, and remain at the scene until law enforcement arrives.
- Statute of limitations: Victims have two years to file a civil claim.
References:
- Alaska Statute 28.35.050: Action of Operator Immediately After Accident
- Alaska Statute 28.35.060: Duty to Give Information and Render Assistance
Alaska Statute 28.35.050 Explained
Under Alaska Statutes Title 28.35.050, any driver involved in an accident resulting in injury, death, or property damage must immediately stop at the scene or as close to it as safely possible. The driver must remain until fulfilling all requirements under AS 28.35.060.
The statute states: “An operator of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to or death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close to it as possible and return to, and remain at, the scene until the operator has fulfilled the requirements of AS 28.35.060.”
Your Legal Obligations at the Scene
Under AS 28.35.060, you must:
- Render reasonable assistance to any injured person.
- Make arrangements for the victim to receive medical care, including transportation to a hospital.
- Provide your name, address, and vehicle registration number to the victim, a passenger, or law enforcement.
- Exhibit your driver’s license upon request.
Note: These requirements do not apply if you are physically incapable of fulfilling them due to your own injuries.
Penalties for Hit and Run in Alaska
Hit and Run Resulting in Injury or Death
A hit and run that causes injury or death is a Class C felony in Alaska. Penalties include:
- Up to 10 years in prison
- Fines up to $150,000
- Driver’s license revocation for up to 10 years (time does not run during incarceration)
Hit and Run Involving Property Damage Only
Hitting an unattended vehicle or causing property damage and leaving is a misdemeanor:
- Up to one year in prison
- Fines up to $500
Failure to Render Assistance
Failing to help an injured person is separately punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000 under AS 28.35.060.
The giving of assistance or compliance with these provisions is not evidence of liability for the accident.
Alaska Crash Statistics
Understanding the scope of traffic incidents in Alaska provides context for hit and run laws:
- Annual crashes: Alaska DOT reports approximately 10,200 crashes statewide, with Anchorage accounting for about 40% (roughly 4,100 crashes).
- Pedestrian fatalities: In the 12 months ending June 2025, 16 people were killed in pedestrian versus vehicle collisions in Anchorage alone.
- Geographic distribution: Approximately 59% of fatal crashes occur in rural areas where higher speeds and single lane roads increase risk.
- Serious injury rate: Alaska’s 2024 target for serious injury rate was 5.500 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled.
Notable Alaska Hit and Run Cases
Larry W. Anderson Jr. Case (2024)
In May 2024, Anchorage police arrested Larry W. Anderson Jr., age 40, for striking and killing a woman crossing A Street in Midtown Anchorage. Anderson fled the scene after the collision. This case demonstrated how investigators use surveillance footage and witness statements to identify hit and run suspects even after they flee.
Joshua Vargas Case (2025)
In September 2025, 27-year-old Joshua Vargas was arrested and charged with manslaughter following a fatal hit and run in Anchorage. The case highlighted how fleeing the scene can elevate charges from potential vehicular homicide to more serious criminal offenses.
What to Do After an Accident in Alaska
For Drivers
- Stop immediately at the scene or as close as safely possible.
- Call 911 if anyone is injured.
- Render reasonable assistance to any injured person.
- Exchange information with the other party (name, address, registration, license).
- Do not move the vehicle if the accident results in serious injury or death.
- Contact a defense attorney before making detailed statements.
For Victims
- Call law enforcement immediately.
- Document the incident: take photos, record vehicle descriptions, plate numbers, and damage.
- Gather witness contact information.
- Seek medical attention and keep all records.
- Contact your insurance company.
- Consult with an attorney about civil claims.
Unattended Vehicle Collision
If you hit an unattended vehicle and cannot locate the owner, you must leave a written note in a conspicuous place containing your name, address, and a statement of the circumstances.
How Fault is Determined in Alaska
Alaska is one of 13 states that follows the pure comparative fault rule. This means:
- You may recover damages even if you were partly responsible for the accident.
- Your damages award is reduced by your percentage of fault.
- A jury determines the fault percentage for each party.
Example: If you are found 60% at fault for an accident and suffered $100,000 in damages, you can only recover $40,000.
Why You Should Not Admit Fault
Avoid statements like:
- “I apologize”
- “It was my fault”
- “I’m sorry”
- “I did not see the other car”
These statements can be used against you in insurance claims and litigation. Let investigators determine fault based on evidence.
Hit and Run Defenses in Alaska
The facts of each case determine available defenses. Common defenses include:
Lack of Knowledge
Prosecutors must prove you knew you were involved in an accident. If you genuinely did not realize you struck someone or something, this may serve as a defense. However, investigators will examine vehicle damage, surveillance footage, and impact evidence.
Vehicle Not in Your Possession
If your vehicle was stolen or operated by someone else at the time of the incident, this documentation may serve as a defense.
Physical Incapacity
If you were injured and incapable of fulfilling the statutory requirements, this exemption applies under the law.
Fear for Safety
If you reasonably feared for your safety at the scene, you may leave and immediately report to law enforcement. Document your concerns thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hit and run a felony in Alaska?
It depends on the circumstances. Hit and run involving injury or death is a Class C felony. Property damage only cases are misdemeanors.
What is the statute of limitations for hit and run in Alaska?
Victims have two years from the date of the incident to file a civil lawsuit. Criminal charges have separate timelines based on the offense classification.
Can I report a hit and run after leaving the scene?
Yes, but leaving the scene is itself a violation. Reporting promptly and explaining your reasons (such as fear for safety) may mitigate consequences, but you may still face charges.
What if I hit and run while intoxicated?
You will face multiple charges including DUI, hit and run, and potentially manslaughter or vehicular homicide. A first offense DUI is a Class A misdemeanor with mandatory minimum 72 hours imprisonment.
Can I be charged if I was not at fault for the accident?
Yes. Hit and run charges are based on leaving the scene, not on fault for the collision itself. Even if the other party caused the accident, fleeing is a separate offense.