I hate to be pessimistic, but I had a hit-and-run last year and we did catch up to the gal in the end. She drove right into a construction zone and had to stop. We got her plate number and called the police.
I got the police report and the drivers information from the police and I filed a small claims suit against the driver. I won the default judgment and to this day I've never seen a dime, nor will I ever.
No insurance, no license, driving her fathers car that was not current on it's registration. Many multiple traffic violations and outstanding judgments. Not only am I out getting my car fixed, I'm also out the filing fees and the money I paid the process server.
It's like no one cares anymore.