Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be frustrating and stressful, especially when the other driver flees the scene. Without the at-fault driver’s information, you may worry about covering damages and medical expenses. Knowing what to do in the aftermath can help protect your rights and ensure a smoother insurance claims process. Dive into these crucial steps for handling a hit-and-run accident and getting the coverage you need.
Ensure Your Safety and Check for Injuries
After a hit-and-run, your first priority should be safety. Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 immediately to get medical assistance. If your vehicle is in a dangerous spot, move it to a safer location if possible. Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers and prevent further accidents. Even if you feel fine, consider seeking medical attention, as some injuries may not be immediately noticeable.
Gather as Much Information as Possible
The more details you can provide to the police and your insurer, the better your chances of identifying the at-fault driver and getting your claim approved. If you saw the fleeing vehicle, try to note the following: make, model, and color; license plate number (even a partial number can help); any distinguishing features like bumper stickers or damage; and direction the vehicle was headed. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information. They might have seen details you missed, and their statements can support your insurance claim or police report.
Call the Police and File a Report
Contact the police as soon as possible to report the hit-and-run. Provide them with all the details you collected, and let them know if there are any nearby traffic cameras that may have captured the incident. A police report is crucial when filing an insurance claim, as insurers often require official documentation to process hit-and-run claims. Make sure to get a copy of the report for your records.
Take Photos of the Damage and Scene
Documenting the accident scene can strengthen your insurance claim. Take clear photos of any damage to your vehicle from multiple angles. Capture images of skid marks, debris, or surrounding traffic signs and signals. If your car was hit while parked, take photos of where it was positioned and any nearby surveillance cameras that may have recorded the event.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurer about the hit-and-run as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and let you know what coverage options apply. The type of coverage that may help in a hit-and-run situation includes uninsured motorist coverage (UM), which covers damages and medical expenses if the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured; collision coverage, which pays for vehicle repairs regardless of fault (but requires you to pay your deductible); and medical payments coverage (MedPay) or personal injury protection (PIP), which can help cover medical bills. Check your policy to see what coverages you have and how much financial protection they provide.
Understand Your Deductible and Out-of-Pocket Costs
If you don’t have uninsured motorist or collision coverage, you may have to pay out of pocket for repairs. Even if you are covered, you’ll likely need to pay your deductible before your insurer covers the remaining costs. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may not always be worth filing a claim. If repair costs are lower than your deductible, handling the repairs yourself might be the more cost-effective option.
Follow Up on Your Claim
Once your claim is filed, stay in touch with your insurance company to track its progress. If law enforcement identifies the at-fault driver, their insurance may be responsible for your damages. If the driver remains unidentified, your claim will be processed based on the coverages in your policy. Keep records of all communications with your insurer and any repair estimates or medical expenses related to the accident.
How to Protect Yourself from Future Hit-and-Run Incidents
While hit-and-run accidents are unpredictable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and improve your chances of identifying the other driver. When parking, choose well-lit areas with security cameras whenever possible. If you’re driving, maintain a safe distance from reckless drivers who may be more likely to flee after an accident. Consider installing a dashcam, which can provide valuable video evidence in case of a hit-and-run.
Wrapping It Up
A hit-and-run accident can be a stressful experience, but knowing how to respond can make the claims process smoother. By gathering evidence, filing a police report, and understanding your insurance coverage, you can protect yourself financially and legally. Look into your policy today to ensure you have the right coverage in place in case the unexpected happens.
