Kim Delaney Faces Lawsuit Over 2022 Hit-and-Run Incident
Actress Kim Delaney has responded to a lawsuit filed against her by Dzhamal Badalov, admitting she was involved in a car accident but denying allegations of drunk driving. The lawsuit, filed in January 2024, stems from a November 2022 incident where Delaney hit Badalov's motorcycle from behind and fled the scene.
Legal Claims and Denials in the Case
In court documents obtained by People on February 19, 2026, Delaney acknowledged the collision but refuted claims that she was under the influence of alcohol at the time. Badalov's lawsuit alleges that Delaney's actions caused him injuries due to negligence, including abandoning the scene without exchanging information, and he is seeking punitive damages.
Delaney's legal team emphasized in the filing that there is no admissible evidence of drinking and driving, as no blood alcohol or breathalyzer tests were administered by law enforcement. They criticized the request for Delaney to complete an Alcoholics Anonymous or rehab program as an invasion of privacy and a character attack.
Celebrity Status Cited as Reason for Fleeing
The actress, known for roles in NYPD Blue and All My Children, explained in the documents that she left the scene due to fear for her safety. She cited that several people had surrounded her and referenced a previous history of personal assault in the neighborhood. Her legal team added that as a public figure, Delaney is fearful of retribution or attack based on her perceived celebrity status.
Previous Legal Issues Involving Delaney and Her Husband
This incident is not Delaney's first run-in with the law. Earlier in February 2026, her husband, James Morgan, was arrested on a misdemeanor charge after noise complaints and a verbal disturbance at their Marina del Rey apartment complex. He was later cited and released.
Nearly a year prior, Delaney was accused of attempting to run Morgan over with her car during an altercation, leading to arrests for both parties. However, neither faced charges related to that event. These past incidents add context to the current lawsuit, highlighting ongoing legal challenges for the couple.
The case continues to unfold as both sides present their arguments, with Delaney's defense focusing on her safety concerns and lack of evidence for drunk driving claims.
