Hit-and-run accidents are a stressful and frustrating experience for any driver. Not only are you left dealing with the damage to your vehicle, but you’re also left without the other driver to hold responsible for the costs. Knowing how to handle car insurance claims in a hit-and-run situation is crucial to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to manage your car insurance claim after a hit-and-run accident.
1. Understanding What Constitutes a Hit-and-Run Accident
a. Definition of a Hit-and-Run
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing their contact information or offering assistance. This can happen in various scenarios, such as:
- A driver hits your parked car and leaves without a note.
- A driver collides with your car while you’re in it and speeds away without stopping.
- You’re injured as a pedestrian or cyclist, and the responsible driver flees the scene.
b. Legal and Financial Consequences
In most jurisdictions, leaving the scene of an accident is illegal, and the offending driver can face severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. From an insurance perspective, hit-and-run accidents often place the burden of filing claims on the victim, especially if the at-fault driver cannot be identified.
2. Steps to Take Immediately After the Hit-and-Run Accident
a. Ensure Safety First
Before anything else, check for injuries. If you or any passengers are hurt, seek medical attention immediately. Your health and safety are the top priority.
b. Stay at the Scene and Collect Evidence
If possible, stay at the accident scene and gather as much information as you can, which will be critical for your insurance claim. Key steps include:
- Document the Damage: Take photos of the damage to your vehicle, surrounding area, and any visible debris from the other car. These photos will support your claim.
- Witness Information: If there are witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information. Their testimony could be valuable in helping you identify the hit-and-run driver.
- Note Any Details: Record details such as the make, model, and color of the fleeing vehicle if possible. Even partial information (like a partial license plate) can help in the investigation.
c. Contact Law Enforcement
Report the hit-and-run to the police immediately. Filing a police report is essential for insurance purposes, as most insurers will require an official report when processing a claim. Provide the police with any details you have, including photos, witness accounts, and any descriptions of the fleeing vehicle.
3. Notifying Your Insurance Company
a. Contact Your Insurer as Soon as Possible
After contacting the police, the next step is to notify your insurance company. Call your insurer’s claims department or use their app (if available) to report the hit-and-run incident. Provide them with the details of the accident, including the police report number, witness information, and any evidence you’ve gathered.
b. Submit All Required Documentation
Your insurance company will likely request the following documents:
- Police Report: A copy of the official police report filed after the accident.
- Photos and Evidence: Any photos, videos, or other evidence collected at the scene.
- Witness Statements: If available, provide witness statements or contact information.
c. Insurance Adjuster Assessment
After you report the claim, an insurance adjuster will assess the damage to your vehicle. They may schedule an inspection or ask you to visit a repair shop affiliated with your insurer. The adjuster will determine the extent of the damage and provide an estimate for repairs.
4. Types of Coverage That Apply in Hit-and-Run Accidents
a. Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD)
Uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) coverage may apply to hit-and-run accidents if the other driver is unidentified. UMPD coverage will pay for damage to your vehicle if the at-fault driver is uninsured or cannot be located.
b. Collision Coverage
If you have collision coverage, it will cover the cost of repairs or the replacement of your vehicle, regardless of who caused the accident. Unlike liability coverage, which requires the other driver to be at fault, collision coverage applies even in hit-and-run scenarios.
c. Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI)
If you were injured in the hit-and-run accident, uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) coverage can help cover your medical bills and lost wages. This coverage is critical if the driver who hit you cannot be identified or doesn’t have insurance.
d. Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Personal injury protection (PIP) coverage can also assist in covering medical expenses and lost wages if you or your passengers were injured in the accident. PIP is often required in no-fault states and provides coverage regardless of who is at fault for the accident.
5. Dealing with Deductibles and Costs
a. Understanding Deductibles
If you use collision or UMPD coverage to pay for vehicle repairs, you’ll likely be required to pay a deductible. Your deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Check your policy for the exact deductible amount.
b. Potential for Reimbursement
If the hit-and-run driver is eventually found, your insurance company may seek reimbursement from them for the damages. In some cases, you may be reimbursed for the deductible paid during the claims process. This process is called subrogation, where your insurer takes legal action against the at-fault driver to recover costs.
6. Following Up on Your Claim
a. Communicating with Your Insurance Adjuster
Keep in contact with your insurance adjuster to stay informed about the progress of your claim. Be sure to provide any additional documentation or information requested to avoid delays in processing your claim.
b. Repairs and Reimbursement
Once the insurance company approves your claim, you can proceed with repairs at an approved body shop. If your vehicle is declared a total loss, your insurer will pay the actual cash value (ACV) of your vehicle, minus any deductible.
7. Preventing Future Hit-and-Run Incidents
a. Parking in Safe Locations
When parking, especially overnight, choose well-lit and secure areas. Parking in a garage or monitored parking lot can deter hit-and-run incidents.
b. Installing a Dashcam
A dashcam can provide valuable evidence in the event of a hit-and-run. If the accident occurs while you’re driving, a dashcam may capture the license plate or appearance of the fleeing vehicle, which can assist law enforcement in identifying the culprit.
c. Additional Safety Measures
Consider installing security cameras if you often park your car near your home or workplace. These cameras can help capture any suspicious activity, including hit-and-run accidents, and provide evidence to the police and your insurer.
8. Conclusion
Handling a hit-and-run accident is stressful, but knowing how to file a claim with your insurance company can alleviate some of the burden. Acting quickly to gather evidence, filing a police report, and notifying your insurer will help ensure that your claim is processed smoothly. Comprehensive coverage, uninsured motorist protection, and collision insurance are essential to safeguarding yourself against the financial repercussions of a hit-and-run accident. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently navigate the claims process and secure the compensation you deserve.