Auto Insurers: Hit-And-Run Reporting Requirements

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can be a stressful and disorienting experience. A hit-and-run occurs when a driver knowingly causes or contributes to an accident and then leaves the scene without providing their information or assisting others. In many places, this is considered a misdemeanour, but it can become a felony if someone is injured. After a hit-and-run, it is important to stay at the scene and contact the police and your insurance company as soon as possible. While it is not always possible, it is helpful to document as much information as you can about the other driver and their vehicle, including their license plate number, the make and model of their car, and which direction they headed after the accident.

Collision coverage

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you may be able to make a claim on your collision coverage policy even if the other driver isn't found. Collision coverage can pay to repair or replace your vehicle if it has been damaged in a collision with another vehicle, object, or if the vehicle overturns. However, a deductible will likely apply to repair your vehicle, and deductibles and coverages vary depending on the state you reside in and the type of policy you carry.

In some states, such as California, uninsured motorist property damage insurance may not be used for a hit-and-run claim unless there are specific circumstances, such as an unbiased witness to the incident. In such cases, collision coverage is usually required to cover the damages.

Uninsured motorist coverage

Underinsured motorist coverage is similar to uninsured motorist coverage but applies when the at-fault driver doesn't have enough insurance to cover your damages or medical bills. This type of coverage is usually offered alongside uninsured motorist coverage and can provide additional financial protection in the event of an accident.

In the case of a hit-and-run accident, uninsured motorist coverage can be crucial. If the driver at fault cannot be identified, uninsured motorist coverage can help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, or damages to your car, depending on your state's laws. However, it's important to note that uninsured motorist property damage coverage isn't available in all states, and in some states, it cannot be used for hit-and-run incidents. Therefore, it's essential to review your insurance policy and understand the specific coverages and limitations in your state.

To ensure you have adequate protection, consider adding uninsured motorist coverage to your policy. This coverage is relatively inexpensive and can provide peace of mind in the event of an accident with an uninsured or unidentified driver. By understanding your insurance policy and the available coverages, you can make informed decisions about your financial protection and be better prepared to handle the financial burden of a hit-and-run or collision with an uninsured driver.

Personal injury protection

PIP covers medical and hospital expenses, as well as funeral expenses, wage loss, and loss of services. In some states, non-medical benefits such as coverage for lost wages, household services, and disability are also included. The specific benefits covered and the maximum coverage limits vary by state and insurance company. For example, in Washington state, PIP covers up to $10,000 in medical and hospital expenses per person, with an additional $2,000 for funeral expenses and $200 per week for wage loss.

PIP is an important form of protection for individuals and their families, as it provides financial assistance for medical and other expenses that may arise after a car accident. It is important to note that PIP does not cover damage to the insured person's vehicle or property; separate coverage is required for those types of losses.

When purchasing auto insurance, individuals should carefully review the PIP coverage offered and consider their own health insurance coverage, lost wage needs, and other factors to determine if additional PIP coverage is necessary.

Medical payments

• Hospital visits or stays
• Nursing services and care
• Ambulance and EMT fees
• Health insurance deductibles and co-pays
• Surgery, X-rays, and dental procedures

MedPay limits typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the state and insurer. It is generally a good idea to carry coverage equal to your health insurance deductible, so you can use MedPay to cover your out-of-pocket medical expenses. If you don't have health insurance, you should consider carrying a higher MedPay limit to help pay your medical bills after an accident.

MedPay is different from personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, which is available instead of MedPay in states that don't offer it. PIP is sometimes also called no-fault insurance because it pays for medical treatments and services after a car accident, regardless of who caused the crash. PIP also has more extensive benefits than MedPay, such as wage reimbursement if injuries force you to miss work. However, one drawback of PIP is that it often includes a deductible, whereas MedPay typically doesn't involve a deductible.

Reporting a hit-and-run

During the Accident

• Stay at the scene and call 911: If someone is injured, call 911 immediately. In many jurisdictions, leaving the scene of an accident can result in a misdemeanour or felony charge.
• Document the accident: If it is safe to do so, try to get as much information as possible about the other driver, vehicle, and accident details. This includes the license plate number, vehicle make, model, colour, direction of travel, damage to the vehicle, location, date, time, and cause of the accident. Take photos of the damage to both vehicles and the accident scene.

After the Accident

• Talk to witnesses: If there are any witnesses present, ask for their contact information and if they can provide additional information about the accident. Witness statements can be crucial if you were not in your vehicle during the accident.
• Contact the police: Report the hit-and-run to the police as soon as possible. You will need a police report to file an insurance claim. Provide the police with all the information and evidence you have gathered.
• Contact your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and let you know what coverage you have.

Additional Considerations

• Do not follow the fleeing driver: It is important to stay at the scene and gather information. Leaving may put you in danger and compromise your ability to collect eyewitness accounts.
• Get surveillance footage: If the accident occurred in a parking lot or near businesses, ask nearby establishments if they have surveillance camera footage of the incident. This can help identify the fleeing driver.
• Be cautious when speaking to the police: If you are considered a suspect in the hit-and-run, it is advisable to consult an attorney before providing a statement to the police.
• Understand your insurance coverage: The type of coverage you have will determine what expenses are covered by your insurance company. Collision coverage is typically required for hit-and-run accidents, but in some cases, uninsured motorist coverage may apply.

Frequently asked questions