Hit-and-run crashes are on the rise in California, leaving victims with devastating injuries and unanswered questions. In 2025, data shows that certain cities have become hotspots for these reckless incidents. Whether it’s crowded freeways, dense pedestrian areas, or late-night nightlife zones, these hit-and-run accidents are causing untold suffering across the state. Here are the top 10 California cities where hit-and-runs are most common in 2025.

1. Los Angeles

No surprise, Los Angeles tops the list. With millions of vehicles on the road and some of the busiest intersections in America, hit-and-run crashes occur daily. In 2025, pedestrian victims in Downtown LA and Hollywood have been especially at risk, with late-night DUI-related hit-and-runs on the rise.

2. San Diego

San Diego has seen a sharp increase in hit-and-runs in 2025, particularly along the I-5 corridor and in nightlife-heavy areas like Pacific Beach and the Gaslamp Quarter. Tourists and commuters alike face the risk of drivers fleeing accident scenes.

3. San Francisco

The city’s narrow streets and heavy pedestrian traffic make San Francisco a hotbed for hit-and-runs. In 2025, Mission District and SoMa recorded some of the highest hit-and-run incidents in Northern California.

4. Sacramento

Sacramento’s growing population and expanding suburbs have created more traffic congestion, leading to more hit-and-runs. Many involve cyclists and pedestrians along busy downtown streets.

5. Fresno

Fresno ranks high on the list due to its mix of high-speed roads and urban neighborhoods. In 2025, local reports show a troubling number of hit-and-runs involving pedestrians in residential areas.

6. Oakland

Oakland continues to struggle with reckless driving and hit-and-runs. Interstate 880 and busy city corridors like International Boulevard remain among the most dangerous areas for drivers and pedestrians alike.

7. Bakersfield

Known for its truck traffic and sprawling roads, Bakersfield recorded a sharp increase in hit-and-runs in 2025. Victims often include motorcyclists and pedestrians along rural highways.

8. San Jose

Despite being part of tech-driven Silicon Valley, San Jose faces its share of hit-and-run accidents. In 2025, the greatest risks are concentrated in high-traffic intersections near downtown and major commuter routes.

9. Long Beach

As a dense coastal city, Long Beach deals with heavy nightlife traffic and freeway congestion. In 2025, reports show many hit-and-run accidents near the waterfront and downtown entertainment district.

10. Riverside

Riverside rounds out the top ten with its busy suburban highways and growing population. Many 2025 hit-and-runs have been reported on the 91 Freeway and in residential neighborhoods.

Why Hit-and-Runs Are So Common

The reasons drivers flee the scene are tragically common. Many are intoxicated, driving without insurance, or fearful of legal consequences. Some panic and run even when injuries are severe. For victims, this leaves them fighting not just for recovery but also for justice.

What Victims Can Do in 2025

If you’re a victim of a hit-and-run in California, immediate steps can protect your health and your case. Call 911 and file a police report, even if the driver is gone. Gather any possible evidence, including witness statements and nearby surveillance footage. Seek medical treatment right away, since injuries often worsen over time. Finally, speak to a personal injury lawyer who can explore compensation options, including uninsured motorist coverage claims.

Conclusion

Hit-and-run accidents in 2025 are plaguing California’s busiest cities, from Los Angeles to Riverside. The damage they cause is devastating, both physically and emotionally. Hillstone Law stands ready to help victims find justice, track down responsible parties, and fight for maximum compensation. If you or a loved one has been injured in a California hit-and-run accident, contact us today for a free consultation.