Overview
A hit-and-run leaves you dealing with an injury and no one to hold accountable at the scene, but you still have paths to compensation. Your own uninsured motorist coverage often covers hit-and-run accidents specifically, and police involvement can sometimes help identify the fleeing driver. Acting quickly to report the accident and preserve evidence gives you the best chance of a fair recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does a hit-and-run accident claim work?
Since the at-fault driver cannot be identified or has fled, most hit-and-run claims are pursued through your own uninsured motorist coverage, which is often written to specifically apply in this situation. Reporting the accident to police right away also creates an official record that supports your claim.
What should I do immediately after a hit-and-run?
Call the police to file a report as soon as possible, try to note any details about the other vehicle such as color, make, or partial license plate, and look for witnesses or nearby security cameras. Seek medical attention promptly and keep records of everything.
What if the police never find the other driver?
You can typically still pursue a claim through your uninsured motorist coverage even if the driver is never identified, as long as you reported the accident and can support that a hit-and-run actually occurred, often through the police report and any witnesses.
Do I need uninsured motorist coverage for a hit-and-run claim?
In most cases, yes, since there is no identified at-fault driver's insurance to pursue. This is one of the main reasons insurance professionals recommend carrying uninsured motorist coverage even in states where it is optional.
Can I still get compensation if I was partly at fault too?
It is possible, depending on how your coverage and applicable comparative fault rules work, though your compensation could be reduced by your share of fault. A lawyer can help sort out how these rules interact with your uninsured motorist claim.
Have Questions About Your Injury Case?
Injury Case Pro offers free, no-obligation case reviews. There are no upfront costs and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Get A Free Case Review →This page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by state and every case is different. Contact us to discuss the specific facts of your situation.
