General educational information, not legal advice. Review scope: federal rules and Texas/Wisconsin examples only, where stated—not a review of every state’s law. Applicable law, coverage, and deadlines depend on the jurisdiction and facts.
There is no single investigation clock
How long an agency actively investigates depends on local procedures, the seriousness of the event, available evidence and investigative leads. This review did not establish a reliable nationwide number of days. The old article's ten-day example should not be treated as a rule.
Ask the investigating agency for the report number, how to submit evidence, and how to request updates. A change in investigative status does not by itself answer your insurance rights or all possible civil procedures.
Preserve useful information promptly
Call emergency services when needed and report the collision. Do not pursue the other vehicle or put yourself in traffic to collect evidence. Write down what you actually observed, including a partial plate, vehicle description, direction of travel and approximate time.
Preserve original photographs and dashcam footage. Identify witnesses and possible nearby cameras promptly because recordings may be overwritten. Provide information to investigators without publicly accusing someone whose identity has not been confirmed.
Police work and insurance claims are different processes
Do not wait for an arrest before checking policy notice conditions and civil deadlines. Coverage for an unidentified driver varies with the policy and state law. UM/UIM, collision, medical-payment, or other first-party benefits may be relevant, but none is guaranteed simply because the driver fled.
As a Texas example, the insurance regulator explains hit-and-run coverage and the importance of reporting to police. Other jurisdictions and policies can have different conditions. Texas crash-scene law also separately imposes applicable stop, information, assistance and reporting duties.
A lawyer can assess the relevant policy and local procedures, including any options when the driver's identity is not yet known. Avoid assuming either that no civil avenue exists or that an unidentified-driver claim must be paid.