Washington state has a new hit-and-run alert system

Washington's new hit-and-run alert system went live Tuesday, allowing police to notify media and anyone who signs up about hit-and-runs in the state.

The Washington State Patrol is behind the new system, which is a two-year pilot program.

“Last year, our state saw over 300 hit-and-run collisions resulting in serious injury or death. In many of those situations, information about the fleeing vehicle was available that, if widely disseminated, might have helped us find a dangerous driver,” said WSP Chief John R. Batiste in a statement. “We are working with our partners in law enforcement across the state and in highway safety at WSDOT to get the word out about these often devastating crimes.”

The Washington State Department of Transportation will also post identifying information about hit-and-run drivers on highway message signs when a crash results in an injury or death.

For an alert to be sent, a hit-and-run incident must be reported to police, an injury or death is reported, and enough information about the vehicle is available.

“If you see or hear the alert and then see what you think might be the suspect vehicle, call 911 and report your location,” Chief Batiste said. “DO NOT ENGAGE with the vehicle or driver under any circumstances. Let our troopers and our fine local law enforcement officers do their jobs in safely and professionally contacting suspect vehicles. Let’s all do our part to keep the roadways and one another safer.”