Hit-and-run accidents are on the rise, leaving many drivers wrestling with the aftermath of these often frightening encounters.
According to recent hit-and-run statistics, these types of accidents have become a significant concern on our roads, with thousands of cases reported yearly. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety says there’s a hit-and-run on U.S. roads every minute. Since 2006, that’s added up to about 682,000 crashes a year, and in 2019 alone, over 814,000 were reported. Interestingly, hit-and-runs involving property damage or injuries happen more than twice as often as other types.
It’s good to be alert for hit-and-runs and know how to prevent them, but knowing what to do if you’re involved in one is just as important. Hit-and-runs can have big financial and emotional effects, so being prepared can really help – especially if you’re asking yourself, “Does insurance cover hit-and-run situations?”
Why are hit-and-runs more common in some areas?
There are a few reasons hit-and-run accidents seem to happen more often in certain places. From the number of people walking around to specific traits of the drivers involved, several factors come into play.
More Pedestrians, More Risk
Pedestrians are at higher risk in hit-and-run situations because they don’t have the protection of a vehicle. In areas with lots of foot traffic, accidents are more likely simply because there are more people on the streets.
The Environment Matters
Where an accident happens can make a big difference. Poorly lit streets, tricky road designs, and lack of security cameras can all increase the chances of a hit-and-run. Well-lit, busy areas with more traffic cameras usually see fewer of these incidents, while darker, isolated spots tend to have more since drivers might feel like they can get away without being caught.
Who’s Behind the Wheel
Certain types of drivers are involved in hit-and-runs more often than others. Studies show that men, especially between 25 and 54, are more likely to be the ones driving in these accidents. People with a history of DUIs or suspended licenses also show up in hit-and-run stats more frequently. Many are also driving much older cars, which often suggests they’re dealing with financial challenges. If they’re uninsured, the thought of facing hefty bills for damages or injuries might push them to flee the scene, even though it only makes things worse.
What to do in a hit-and-run
Taking the right steps after a hit-and-run can make a big difference in how things turn out. Here’s a 7-step approach to handling the situation:
- Prioritize Safety: First and foremost, make sure you and anyone with you are safe. If you can, move your vehicle out of traffic to a safe spot. If there are any injuries, call for medical help right away.
- Contact Emergency Services: Dial 911 to alert the police and, if necessary, paramedics. The police will investigate the scene and create a report — an important document for insurance claims. Make sure to get the report number, along with the officer’s name and badge number.
- Gather Information: If possible, take note of the other vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate. A physical description of the driver or details from other witnesses can be incredibly helpful. Don’t try to follow the driver, as it could put you and others in danger.
- Document the Scene: Take pictures of your car’s damage and the surrounding area if it’s safe. Record details of the accident, whether through notes or voice recordings, so you can refer back to them when needed. Keep any recordings intact as they may be used later in your claim or even in court.
- Check for Cameras and Witnesses: Look around for potential security cameras nearby or a dashcam in your own car that might have captured the incident. Also, ask anyone nearby if they saw what happened — witness statements can be valuable when filing a claim.
- Report the Incident to Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurer as soon as you can. They’ll help guide you through the claims process and inform you of what steps to take next.
- Stay Calm and Avoid Admitting Fault: Be mindful of what you say at the scene. Don’t admit fault, even if you feel you might have contributed to the accident. Let the authorities and insurance companies determine what happened, as admitting fault prematurely could affect your case.
What to do in a hit-and-run parked car situation
If your car was parked and someone hit it and then took off, the step-by-step process is a little simpler. Here’s what you should do:
- Document the Damage: Take detailed photos of every angle of the damage to your car, making sure to capture even the minor details. Don’t forget to photograph the surrounding area, too—things like skid marks, broken glass, or other vehicles nearby could help piece together what happened.
- Look for Cameras: Scan the area for any surveillance cameras from nearby businesses, homes, or even traffic lights. These could have recorded the incident, providing crucial footage. If you can, politely ask the owners for access to their footage, as this may help identify the responsible driver.
- Contact the Police: Reach out to the police to file a report, ensuring that you provide them with any photos, witness information, or potential video footage. A police report is often a requirement for filing an insurance claim, so make sure to get a copy or at least note the report number and the officer’s contact details for your records.
Filing an insurance claim for a hit-and-run incident
Now, let’s look at what you need to know about hit-and-run claims. We’ll cover how insurance handles these situations, whether filing a claim could impact your premiums, the steps involved in making a claim, and how long the whole process might take.
Will insurance cover a hit-and-run?
You’ll find that insurance coverage for hit-and-run accidents varies based on your policy. You’ll want to look into the following:
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
This coverage is designed to protect you if you’re hit by a driver who doesn’t have insurance. In many cases, it can also cover hit-and-run accidents if the responsible driver cannot be identified, and it may help pay for damages and medical expenses.
Underinsured Motorist Coverage
Underinsured motorist coverage comes into play when you’re in an accident with a driver whose insurance isn’t enough to cover your damages. In hit-and-run scenarios, if you’re able to identify the at-fault driver but he or she only has minimal insurance, underinsured motorist coverage can help cover the gap between their coverage and your repair or medical costs. However, if the driver remains unidentified and you can’t claim against them, uninsured motorist coverage is typically the primary recourse.
Collision Coverage
Collision coverage helps pay for repairs to your vehicle after an accident, regardless of who is at fault. This means it can cover the damage from a hit-and-run if the driver is found but also if they cannot be identified.
Comprehensive Coverage
While comprehensive coverage is more commonly used for damage from events like theft or vandalism, it typically doesn’t cover hit-and-run accidents. For hit-and-run incidents, collision and uninsured motorist coverage are generally more relevant.
Be sure to check your policy details or talk to your insurance provider to understand exactly what’s covered and whether you might need additional protection.
For more details on full coverage, check out our guide on understanding full coverage car insurance.
Will a hit-and-run claim raise my insurance?
Filing a hit-and-run claim could lead to higher insurance premiums. Here’s what might affect whether your rates go up:
The Severity of the Incident
How serious the accident was can influence your insurance rates. If the damage is extensive or there are high medical costs, your premiums might increase more compared to a less severe incident.
Your Claim History
If you’ve made several claims in the past, this could lead to higher premiums. Insurance companies often raise rates for drivers with a history of frequent claims, as they’re seen as higher risk.
State Regulations where you live (or where the hit-and-run happens)
Insurance rules vary by state. Some states have limits on how much your rates can go up after a claim, while others might allow more flexibility. Knowing your state’s regulations can help you understand how a hit-and-run claim might impact your premiums.
What to expect from a hit-and-run insurance claim
Dealing with a hit-and-run insurance claim involves several key steps, and understanding the timeline can help you manage expectations. Here’s a general overview of what to expect and how long each step might take:
1. Gather Documentation (1-3 Days)
Start by collecting all relevant documents and evidence related to the incident. This includes:
- Police Report: Obtain a copy of the official report, which is crucial for filing your claim.
- Photographs: Take clear photos of the damage, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
- Witness Statements: Collect statements from witnesses who saw the hit-and-run.
- Medical Records: Gather medical records and bills if anyone was injured.
- Vehicle Repair Estimates: Get estimates from auto repair shops for the damage to your vehicle.
- Insurance Policy Details: Review your policy to understand your coverage.
2. Submit a Claim (1-3 Days)
Contact your insurance provider to start the claims process. Provide all the gathered documentation and be ready to give a detailed account of the accident.
3. Investigation (1-4 Weeks)
The insurance company will review the documentation and investigate the claim, which can involve examining the police report, photos, and witness statements.
4. Assessment and Evaluation (1-2 Weeks)
After the investigation, the insurance adjuster will assess the damage and determine how much compensation you’re entitled to based on your coverage.
5. Settlement Offer (1-2 Weeks)
The insurer will offer a settlement based on their assessment. If you agree to the settlement, the payment process will begin. If you disagree, this part of the process will take longer.
6. Payment (1-2 Weeks)
Once the settlement is agreed upon, you should receive your payment within a few weeks. If you have a direct deposit arranged with your insurer, payment should be received much faster than by snail mail.
Overall, processing a hit-and-run insurance claim can take approximately 4 to 8 weeks, but this timeline can vary depending on your specific situation and the insurance company’s procedures.
Are you prepared for a hit-and-run?
Hit-and-runs underscore why full-coverage car insurance and uninsured motorist protection are important. If you only have the minimum coverage required by your state, you could end up paying for damages out of pocket.
To better prepare yourself, consider preventive measures such as parking in well-lit areas, installing a dashcam, and practicing defensive driving. These steps can help lower the risk of hit-and-run accidents.
And it’s always a good idea to regularly review your insurance policy to make sure you’re covered. With the right protection, you can avoid unexpected expenses and be better prepared for any situation.
If you need assistance or want to review your policy, Guided Solutions is here for you. Get a free, no-obligation quote now or call (833) 791-4719 to talk to an advisor.
