If you’re wondering what to do in a hit-and-run situation, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of drivers face this frightening scenario, left to deal with damage, injuries, and mounting expenses while the responsible party disappears into traffic.
Being the victim of a hit-and-run car accident can leave you feeling helpless, angry, and uncertain about what to do next. At Gerety Insurance, we understand the emotional and financial stress that follows a hit-and-run incident, and we’re here to guide you through the essential steps to protect yourself and your interests.
The Critical First 15 Minutes After a Hit-and-Run Car Accident
When you’re a hit-and-run victim, your actions immediately after the incident can significantly impact your ability to recover damages and navigate the insurance claims process. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Prioritize Safety First
- Pull over to a safe location if your vehicle is driveable
- Turn on your hazard lights
- Check yourself and your passengers for injuries
- Call 911 immediately if anyone is hurt
2. Document Everything You Can Remember
Quick action is crucial. While the details are fresh in your mind, try to record:
- The make, model, and color of the fleeing vehicle
- Any visible damage to their vehicle
- The direction they fled
- A full or partial license plate number
- Distinguishing features of the vehicle or driver
- The exact time and location of the incident
3. Look for Witnesses and Evidence
In hit-and-run car accidents, evidence becomes your strongest ally:
- Ask any witnesses to stay until the police arrive
- Collect witness contact information
- Take photos of your vehicle damage from multiple angles
- Look for nearby security cameras
- Document road conditions and weather
Remember, those first moments after a hit-and-run car accident are crucial for building a strong case. While it may feel overwhelming to gather all this information while you’re still processing what happened, each detail you collect increases the chances of identifying the responsible driver.
The Next Steps: Working with Police and Insurance
Call the police immediately, even if the damage seems minor.
A police report is crucial for your insurance claim and sets several important processes in motion. The responding officers will create an official record of the hit-and-run incident, which strengthens your insurance claim and can help track down the responsible driver.
Having an official police provides independent verification of the incident and its circumstances. Law enforcement can also access traffic camera footage from the area and has resources to investigate the incident that aren’t available to the public.
Insurance Collision Definition and Coverage Types
Understanding your coverage options is crucial when dealing with a hit-and-run incident. Here’s how different types of coverage protect you:
1. Collision Coverage
Collision coverage is your first line of defense after a hit-and-run accident. This coverage helps pay for repairs to your vehicle regardless of who’s at fault, though you’ll need to pay your deductible first.
While this isn’t specifically designed for hit-and-run incidents, it can provide immediate help when you need to get your car repaired quickly.
2. Uninsured Motorist Coverage
This type of coverage is particularly valuable in hit-and-run situations since a hit-and-run driver is effectively uninsured (as they can’t be located to file a claim).
In Maryland, hit-and-run accidents fall under your Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) coverage, with a state-mandated $250 deductible. This is often lower than your collision deductible but requires proving the hit-and-run driver was 100% at fault.
3. Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Personal injury protection provides crucial coverage for medical expenses, regardless of who caused the accident. PIP can cover immediate medical costs, lost wages, and even essential services you might need while recovering.
Understanding how these coverages work together is key to maximizing them. For example, while your collision coverage might require a deductible, your uninsured motorist coverage might reimburse that deductible if the accident is confirmed as a hit-and-run.
Having a knowledgeable insurance partner who can help you navigate these complexities makes such a critical difference.
Learn more about types of car insurance coverage.
Will a Hit and Run Claim Raise My Insurance?
Many drivers worry about rate increases after a hit-and-run accident. The answer depends on your coverage type and insurance provider. While each situation is unique, claims involving hit-and-run accidents can work differently than standard collision claims, particularly regarding your rates.
Since you’re not at fault, many insurance companies will not raise your premiums, but it’s important to discuss this with your agent.
Protecting Yourself Before a Hit and Run Occurs
The best defense against hit-and-run car accidents is preparation:
Review Your Coverage
Start by closely examining your insurance coverage before an incident occurs. Make sure you have adequate collision coverage to protect your vehicle in case of an accident.
Uninsured motorist coverage can help cover damages caused by hit-and-run drivers. Take time to understand your policy’s specific provisions regarding hit-and-run incidents—knowing what’s covered before you need it can save considerable stress later.
Install a Dash Cam
A dash cam can be your best witness in a hit-and-run situation. In the chaos of the moment, a dash cam can capture crucial details you might miss, including license plate numbers of fleeing vehicles.
The footage can also help establish that you weren’t at fault, which can be particularly important when dealing with insurance claims where the other driver cannot provide their account.
Your Trusted Partner in Protection
At Gerety Insurance, we understand that being a hit-and-run victim can feel overwhelming and isolating. For over 25 years, we’ve been the voice on the other end of the phone, offering guidance, support, and hope to Maryland residents dealing with the aftermath of auto accidents.
Don’t wait for a hit-and-run incident to discover gaps in your coverage. Request a quote today, and let us help you ensure you’re properly protected. Our team will work with you to find affordable coverage while providing the personal attention and support you deserve.
Remember, in the unfortunate event of a hit-and-run incident, you’re not alone. Gerety Insurance is here to help you navigate the process and protect what matters most.
