Maybe not genuine but I imagine a fairly regular occurrence.
Remember watching a Traffic Cops episode where a van driver hit a drunk pedestrian in the early hours on a remote road. Didn’t stop. Claimed he thought it was a bird despite substantial damage to windscreen and bonnet. Next day called in to report it . Police interviewed him and breadth tested him but was clear, despite saying he did have a drink.
Charged with failing to stop and dangerous driving I think, got a 18 month ban and a fine. Pedestrian nearly died.