Hit And Run: Insurance And Legal Consequences

Being involved in a hit-and-run incident can be a distressing experience. A hit-and-run is defined as a car accident where the driver responsible leaves the scene without providing their contact information or offering assistance to injured parties. If you are the victim of a hit-and-run, your insurance policy may cover the cost of repairs and injuries, but this depends on the type of coverage you have. Typically, collision coverage is required, but uninsured motorist coverage may also apply. It is important to report the incident to the police and your insurer as soon as possible.

Collision coverage

In the case of a hit-and-run, collision coverage will help cover the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle after you pay your deductible. Collision coverage is especially useful if you are unable to identify the driver who caused the accident. If the driver is identified, their insurance will typically cover your damages and injuries.

While collision coverage is optional, it is required by lenders if you have a car loan or lease. It is also relatively inexpensive to add to your policy. However, it is important to note that collision coverage does not cover injuries sustained in an accident. To ensure you are covered for injuries, you will need to add personal injury protection (PIP), medical payments coverage, or uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage to your policy.

If you are the victim of a hit-and-run, it is important to take the following steps:

• Call the police immediately and file an accident report within 24 hours of the incident.
• Notify your insurance company about the incident as soon as possible, even if you are unsure whether you will file a claim.
• Document the damages and injuries by taking pictures and seeking medical attention if needed.
• If possible, write down a description of the other vehicle and its driver, including the make, model, colour, and any part of the license plate you may have seen.
• Get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Contact any nearby businesses to inquire about available surveillance camera footage.

Uninsured motorist coverage

The benefits of uninsured motorist coverage become evident when you consider the potential costs of a collision with an uninsured driver. Without this coverage, you could be left paying out of pocket for medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other expenses. Even if the other driver is insured, their coverage limits may not be sufficient to fully compensate you for your losses. Uninsured motorist coverage helps fill these gaps, ensuring that you are not left financially vulnerable.

In addition to financial protection, uninsured motorist coverage can also provide peace of mind. Knowing that you have this coverage in place can reduce the stress and anxiety associated with a collision, allowing you to focus on your recovery and any necessary repairs. This type of insurance is particularly important if you live in a state with a high percentage of uninsured drivers. According to the Insurance Information Institute, nearly 13% of drivers countrywide do not have auto insurance, and this number exceeds 20% in some states.

While uninsured motorist coverage is not mandatory in all states, it is a valuable addition to your insurance portfolio. By understanding the risks associated with uninsured and underinsured drivers, you can make an informed decision about the level of coverage that is appropriate for your needs. Speaking with an insurance professional can help you navigate the specific requirements and options available in your state.

Personal injury protection

The specific benefits of PIP vary depending on the state in which it is purchased. For example, in some states, PIP may include a deductible, while in others it may not. The amount of coverage provided by PIP also varies, with minimum coverage amounts and per-person maximum coverage limits set by state governments and insurance companies. In general, PIP coverage is available in "no-fault" states, where each driver's policy pays for their own medical care, regardless of who caused the accident. PIP coverage is required in 15 states and Puerto Rico, while it is optional or not available in other states.

In the context of a hit-and-run accident, PIP can provide valuable protection. A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver intentionally leaves the scene of an accident without providing contact information or offering assistance to injured parties. If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, having PIP coverage can help ensure that your medical expenses and other related costs are covered, regardless of whether the other driver is identified or insured.

It is important to note that PIP has limitations and may not cover all expenses related to a car accident. For example, PIP does not typically cover damage to your vehicle, theft of your vehicle, or damage to someone else's property. Additionally, PIP coverage has maximum limits, and expenses exceeding those limits will not be reimbursed.

Medical payments coverage

In the event of a hit-and-run accident, medical payments coverage may help pay for your or your passengers' medical bills, regardless of fault. This can be especially important as hit-and-run drivers often cannot be identified, and even if they are, they may not have insurance.

The coverage limit of medical payments insurance is the maximum amount your insurer will pay for a covered loss. You can choose your limit when you buy coverage, but any expenses that exceed this limit are your responsibility. Therefore, it is important to consider the cost of potential short-term emergency medical expenses when deciding on a coverage limit.

In summary, medical payments coverage can provide financial peace of mind and help ensure that you and your passengers receive the medical care you need after a car accident, especially in the event of a hit-and-run.

Identifying the driver

A hit-and-run is a criminal offence and a scary, frustrating experience. It is defined as a car accident where the driver intentionally leaves the scene without providing contact information or stopping to help those injured. If you are the victim of a hit-and-run, there are several steps you can take to identify the driver.

Firstly, call the police and request medical assistance if you need it. You should also ask the police to investigate the accident as a crime. The police will have access to technology and resources that can aid in the search for the driver, such as advanced facial recognition software. They can also check surveillance footage and street cameras.

Next, try to gather as much information as possible about the driver and their vehicle. Note the time and location of the incident, and take photos of the scene and any damage to your car. If you are able to, write down the make, model, and colour of the car, as well as any partial or full license plate numbers. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses, as they may be able to provide additional details or footage of the accident.

You can also contact nearby homes and businesses to see if they have any information or footage from their security cameras. Ask them if they recognise the vehicle or have any information about the driver's whereabouts. Send a formal letter to increase your chances of getting the evidence you need.

Another option is to reach out to government agencies, such as the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). They can locate the driver if you have a license plate number, as they have records of registered plates and vehicle owners.

Finally, consider seeking legal assistance. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the process and increase your chances of finding the driver. They can also assist you in getting the care and compensation you need while the search is ongoing.

Remember, it is important to act quickly and provide as much information as possible to increase the likelihood of identifying the hit-and-run driver.

Frequently asked questions