What Does Florida’s New Hit-and-Run Restitution Law Mean for Crash Victims?

New Rights for Property Owners Hurt by Hit-and-Run Drivers

A new Florida law taking effect on October 1, 2025, could bring meaningful relief to victims of hit-and-run drivers, especially those whose vehicles or other property were damaged in the crash. House Bill 479 (2025), titled "Leaving the Scene of a Crash Involving Only Damage to a Vehicle or Property," gives courts the authority to order drivers who flee after causing property damage to pay restitution directly to the victim. This law means property owners may have a clearer, faster path to compensation, even when the at-fault driver leaves without taking responsibility. At Kemp Injury Law, we understand how frustrating and financially stressful it can be when a driver damages your car or property and drives away. This new law provides another tool to help victims seek accountability.

What Does the New Law Actually Say?

Under HB 479, courts in Florida now have the ability to order restitution during the criminal sentencing phase of a hit-and-run case. This applies when the crash results in damage to personal property, like a vehicle, fence, or mailbox, and the driver leaves the scene without stopping. Before this law, victims often had to file a civil lawsuit or rely on their own insurance to recover damages. Now, the court can address both criminal responsibility and financial accountability in the same case. You can review the official bill language through the Florida House of Representatives.

Who Benefits from This New Law?

This law is specifically designed to help victims in cases where no bodily injury occurred, only property damage. Examples include:

• A driver hits your parked car and speeds off without leaving a note
• Someone crashes through your fence or mailbox and leaves the scene
• A vehicle sideswipes your car in a parking lot and flees before you return

If the driver is later identified and charged, the court can now order them to repay the full cost of the damage they caused.

Does This Law Apply to Injury Cases?

No. This law does not apply to hit-and-run crashes involving bodily injury or death. Those types of cases already involve more severe criminal penalties and separate legal procedures. However, if you were injured by a hit-and-run driver, you still have the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. Our Winter Haven car accident attorneys can help you understand your options in these situations.

How Restitution Works in Practice

If the hit-and-run driver is convicted, the court may:

• Review the documented cost of the damage
• Order restitution for repairs or replacement
• Include the payment requirement as part of the sentence

Restitution orders can be a powerful tool for victims, especially when their own insurance coverage is limited or when deductibles are high. This law provides an added path to recovery through the criminal court process.

Is It Easy to Collect Restitution?

Not always. While the court can order restitution, the driver still needs the financial means to pay it. If the person is uninsured, unemployed, or otherwise unable to pay, the victim may still need to explore civil options or turn to their insurance. That said, having restitution included as part of a court sentence puts pressure on the driver to comply. Failing to pay restitution can lead to extended probation, legal penalties, or even jail time.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run That Damages Your Property

If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run involving property damage, here’s what you should do immediately:

• Call the police to file an official report
• Document the scene with photos and videos
• Look for surveillance footage or eyewitnesses nearby
• Contact your insurance company to begin a claim
• Speak with a personal injury attorney to protect your legal rights

Even if the driver is not identified right away, evidence from the scene could lead to criminal charges later, which is where the new restitution law can come into play.

Why This Law Matters for Florida Drivers

Hit-and-run crashes are deeply frustrating. They leave victims with property damage, unanswered questions, and unexpected bills. Florida’s new law helps address at least part of the problem by allowing courts to step in and demand accountability. While not every case will be resolved with a restitution payment, this change strengthens the rights of property owners and gives prosecutors another tool to ensure justice is served.

We Help Hit-and-Run Victims Across Central Florida

At Kemp Injury Law, we’ve seen firsthand how hit-and-run accidents disrupt people’s lives. Whether your parked car was damaged or your home was struck by a vehicle, you deserve answers and compensation. Our legal team stays current on Florida’s evolving car accident laws so we can help clients understand their rights under the latest statutes.

If your property was damaged by a hit-and-run driver, contact us today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you hold the responsible party accountable and pursue the compensation you deserve.