What is it called when a driver hits something and fails to stop?

When a driver hits something or someone and fails to stop, it is known as a hit and run. This term specifically refers to incidents where the driver leaves the scene of the accident without providing their information or checking on the welfare of those involved. Hit and run incidents are taken very seriously by law enforcement and can lead to criminal charges, fines, and points on a driver's license, as they are viewed as irresponsible and a violation of traffic laws.

The other options do not accurately capture this specific situation. Negligent driving refers to a broader category of driving behavior that shows a lack of care or responsibility but does not necessarily imply leaving the scene. Accidental collision may describe the nature of the accident but does not encompass the act of leaving the scene. Fleeing the scene is a similar concept but is less commonly used as a term compared to hit and run when discussing accidents specifically involving impacts followed by a driver leaving. In this context, hit and run is the most precise and widely recognized term.