New Florida bill cracks down on hit-and-run accidents

In Florida, hit-and-run accidents continue to be a pressing concern. In 2023 alone, more than 105,000 hit-and-run crashes were reported across the state — a staggering figure that underscores the urgency of legislative action. In response to this crisis, a new bill known as the Lilly Glaubach Act has been introduced. This proposed law takes a critical step toward improving how law enforcement tracks down and holds accountable those who flee the scene of serious traffic crashes.

What is the Lilly Glaubach Act?

Named after 13-year-old Lilly Glaubach, a Sarasota teen tragically killed by a hit-and-run driver while riding her bicycle in 2022, the bill was crafted to prevent other families from enduring similar heartbreak without justice. After Lilly’s death, the driver attempted to cover up the incident by repairing his vehicle without reporting the crash. It was only through eyewitnesses and quick police action that he was caught.

The Lilly Glaubach Act aims to address this loophole in the system. Under the proposed legislation, auto repair shops in Florida would be required to request a crash report from any customer seeking repairs estimated at $5,000 or more. If no report is provided, the shop must complete a standardized form documenting the damage, the vehicle owner, and details of the repair. This form must then be submitted to law enforcement the same day.

This process creates a transparent, traceable system that makes it significantly more difficult for drivers to hide damage resulting from a crash — especially in hit-and-run cases. The bill also outlines penalties for noncompliance, including misdemeanor charges and potential loss of business registration for repair shops that fail to follow these new guidelines.

Cracking down on hit-and-run offenders  

The Lilly Glaubach Act is not just about gathering paperwork — it’s about deterrence. It sends a clear signal that fleeing the scene of an accident is no longer an easy way to escape consequences. By involving auto repair shops in the reporting process, the bill strengthens the chain of accountability and ensures that law enforcement receives timely leads that could connect vehicle damage to an unsolved crash.

This legislation is especially critical in cases involving vulnerable road users — pedestrians, bicyclists, and children — who often suffer the most devastating consequences from hit-and-run incidents. When drivers flee and victims are left without answers, the justice system fails. The Lilly Glaubach Act is designed to change that.

Injured in a hit-and-run accident in Tampa Bay?

Call the Florida Accident Attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz for a free consultation at (813) 437-5523

If you or someone you love has been injured in a hit-and-run or serious traffic accident in the Tampa Bay area, the experienced attorneys at Darrigo & Diaz are ready to help. Our firm understands the emotional, physical, and financial toll these incidents take on victims and families. That’s why we fight aggressively to hold negligent drivers accountable and recover the compensation our clients deserve.

We know the law, we know the system, and we know how to get results — especially when the person who hurt you tries to disappear. Whether you’re dealing with unanswered questions, denied insurance claims, or severe injuries, Darrigo & Diaz will be by your side every step of the way.

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Florida, contact us immediately through our secured contact form. Or call our office at (813) 437-5523 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and connect with an experienced and knowledgeable accident lawyer.