A hit-and-run accident is every driver’s nightmare—your car is damaged, or worse, you’re injured, and the person responsible is nowhere to be found. In these stressful situations, your insurance coverage can make all the difference. But will your policy actually cover the costs?
Let’s break down what happens after a hit-and-run, what types of insurance protect you, and what steps to take if you’re ever in this situation.
What is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver causes an accident and leaves the scene without stopping to exchange information or help anyone who may be injured. These incidents can involve:
- A car hitting your vehicle while parked
- A driver colliding with you and fleeing
- A pedestrian or cyclist being struck by a driver who doesn’t stop
Regardless of the circumstances, failing to stop is illegal, and penalties can be severe for the at-fault driver.
Does Your Insurance Cover Hit-and-Run Accidents?
Your coverage depends on the types of insurance in your policy. Here’s how different coverage options apply to hit-and-run accidents:
Uninsured Motorist Coverage – Your Best Protection
Since a hit-and-run driver is essentially an uninsured driver, uninsured motorist coverage is one of the best protections against these incidents.
- Uninsured motorist bodily injury covers medical expenses if you or your passengers are injured.
- Uninsured motorist property damage covers car repairs, but availability varies by state.
Many states do not require uninsured motorist coverage, so check your policy to see if you have it.
Collision Coverage – Pays for Car Repairs
Collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle in an accident, even if the other driver flees.
- Unlike uninsured motorist coverage, collision pays regardless of fault.
- You will have to pay your deductible, but your insurer will cover the rest.
Personal Injury Protection and Medical Payments Coverage
If you’re injured in a hit-and-run, personal injury protection or medical payments coverage can help with:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Rehabilitation costs
These coverages pay out regardless of fault, making them valuable in hit-and-run situations.
Comprehensive Coverage – Not for Hit-and-Runs
Comprehensive insurance does not cover hit-and-runs, as it’s designed for non-collision events like theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.
What Should You Do After a Hit-and-Run?
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, follow these steps to protect yourself and improve your chances of filing a successful claim:
Stay Calm and Safe
- Move to a safe location if possible.
- Check yourself and passengers for injuries.
Gather Evidence
- Write down details such as time, location, and what happened.
- Take photos of the scene, damage, and any debris left behind.
- Look for witnesses who may have seen the driver or their vehicle.
- Check for security cameras that might have recorded the accident.
Call the Police
- A police report is essential for your insurance claim.
- Provide all available information about the fleeing driver, such as color, make, model, and license plate number.
Notify Your Insurance Company
- File a claim as soon as possible.
- Provide the police report and any evidence collected.
Will Filing a Hit-and-Run Claim Increase Your Rates?
Unfortunately, filing a hit-and-run claim can affect your premiums, depending on your insurer and state laws.
- If you use uninsured motorist coverage, your rates may not increase since the accident wasn’t your fault.
- If you file under collision coverage, your rates could go up since collision claims are typically fault-neutral.
Some insurers offer accident forgiveness programs, which can prevent rate hikes for first-time claims.
How to Protect Yourself from Hit-and-Run Accidents
- Park in well-lit, busy areas to deter hit-and-run drivers.
- Install a dashcam to capture footage of any accidents.
- Check your insurance policy to ensure you have adequate protection.
- Drive defensively to reduce the risk of being hit.
Final Thoughts
A hit-and-run can leave you feeling frustrated and helpless, but the right insurance coverage can ease the financial burden. Uninsured motorist and collision coverage offer the best protection, so review your policy and consider adding or adjusting coverage if needed.
Would your insurance cover a hit-and-run? Now is the time to check your policy and make sure you’re protected before the unexpected happens.